Charlie Puth captivated audiences with his powerful rendition of the national anthem at Super Bowl LX, held at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on February 11, 2026. Puth, a four-time Grammy nominee, performed alongside deaf artist Fred Beam, who interpreted the anthem in American Sign Language (ASL), showcasing an inclusive approach to the iconic performance.
Puth, dressed in a brown leather jacket, a tie, and blue jeans, has been recognized as an increasingly prominent artist in the music industry. His performance followed last year’s anthem rendition by Jon Batiste at the Super Bowl in Louisiana, adding to a notable list of past performers, including Reba McEntire in 2024 and Chris Stapleton in 2023.
Preparation and Performance Insights
In a press conference held prior to the event, Puth shared insights into his preparation for the national anthem. “The arrangement is everything for me,” he explained to host Zane Lowe. “I always reverse engineer how I hear my own music in my head and then it’s kind of just like pulling it apart and making it a feasible product to hold.” He revealed that he had rehearsed the anthem in his mind for months, often practicing in the shower and in the car.
Puth acknowledged the challenges of singing such a musically demanding piece and expressed his desire to inspire listeners through his performance. “I want everybody to know that music is such an amazing thing and can change so many people’s lives,” he stated. “It can color every aspect of your day so vividly.”
Facing Backlash and Embracing Legacy
Puth’s selection as a Super Bowl performer sparked backlash from some critics. Political commentator Link Lauren expressed doubt on social media, referencing the legendary performance by Whitney Houston in 1991. In response, Puth acknowledged Houston’s unparalleled talent, stating, “I’ll never claim to be as good of a singer as Whitney Houston ever was. But I assure you we’re putting a really special arrangement together—in D major.”
He further articulated his respect for Houston’s legacy, asserting, “That’s the best one ever done.” Puth emphasized his intent to deliver a unique performance while highlighting his own capabilities as a vocalist. “I feel like people don’t really think of me as a stand-alone vocalist at times,” he noted.
Puth revealed that his journey to this prominent opportunity included submitting a demo to Roc Nation, which was well-received by Jay-Z and eventually reached NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “I applied. I auditioned for it, but I made up my own audition because I’ve always wanted to do it,” he explained.
As Super Bowl LVII approached, other notable performers included Green Day, who headlined the pregame opening ceremony, and Brandi Carlile, who sang “America the Beautiful.” The halftime show featured Bad Bunny, further enhancing the star-studded lineup.
Puth’s performance at Super Bowl LX is a testament to the power of music and its ability to resonate across diverse audiences. His commitment to delivering a memorable rendition of the national anthem reflects not only his artistic vision but also the significant role that major sporting events play in uniting fans and celebrating cultural moments.
