If the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show features Metallica, fans may have a past performer to thank for it—Usher. Recently, the R&B superstar expressed his enthusiasm for the legendary metal band during an outing at CBS Studios, where he was asked about potential performers for the upcoming Super Bowl LVIII.
When prompted for a suggestion, Usher simply stated, “Metallica.” This one-word endorsement has sparked excitement among fans who have long speculated about the possibility of the iconic band taking the stage at Levi’s Stadium, located in their home region of the San Francisco Bay Area.
Usher’s Influence on Metallica’s Super Bowl Potential
Usher’s shout-out carries significant weight, especially considering the NFL’s recent partnership with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation, which has influenced the selection of Super Bowl halftime performers since 2019. Factors like an artist’s popularity, genre, and cultural significance play a crucial role in narrowing down potential acts.
In a 2024 interview, Apple Music’s Zane Lowe confirmed that Jay-Z is the primary decision-maker regarding halftime show performers. Jesse Collins, an executive producer of the Super Bowl halftime shows, echoed this sentiment in a statement to Variety, underscoring Jay-Z’s pivotal role in the selection process.
Historically, the Super Bowl halftime stage has leaned heavily toward pop, rap, and hip-hop artists. Recent years have seen performances from stars like Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, The Weeknd, Dr. Dre, and others, prompting some fans to call for a more diverse lineup that includes rock acts. The last rock band to grace the halftime show was Coldplay in 2016, a year when many fans hoped Metallica would be considered, especially since they delivered a high-energy performance during Super Bowl weekend festivities in the Bay Area.
Metallica’s Readiness and Desire for the Super Bowl Stage
In a recent appearance on Howard Stern’s SiriusXM show, Metallica members discussed the possibility of performing at Super Bowl LX in 2026. Drummer Lars Ulrich expressed strong enthusiasm, stating, “Fuck yeah of course we would,” when asked about the opportunity. He further emphasized the significance of performing in San Francisco, saying, “First of all, we would do it. Second of all, to do it in San Francisco would be a dream come true.” Ulrich acknowledged Metallica’s longstanding connection to the Bay Area, adding that it would be an ideal fit, despite noting that the final decision is not theirs to make.
While Metallica’s current touring schedule extends into 2026, they have no shows planned for February of that year, leaving the door open for a potential Super Bowl appearance.
Conclusion
With Usher’s endorsement and Metallica’s passion for performing in their hometown, the stars may be aligning for the iconic band to take the Super Bowl halftime stage in 2026. As fans eagerly await official announcements, the possibility of seeing Metallica in the spotlight adds an exciting twist to the event’s musical landscape.
FAQs
Will Metallica perform at the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show?
While there has been significant speculation and enthusiasm, no official announcement has been made regarding Metallica’s performance at the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show.
What did Usher say about Metallica performing?
Usher indicated his desire to see Metallica perform at the Super Bowl by simply stating their name when asked about potential performers.
When was the last time a rock band performed at the Super Bowl halftime show?
The last rock band to perform at the Super Bowl halftime show was Coldplay in 2016.
Who is responsible for choosing the Super Bowl halftime performers?
Jay-Z, through his Roc Nation partnership with the NFL, plays a primary role in selecting the halftime performers, taking into account various factors like popularity and cultural impact.
