The NFL announced during its Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 28) broadcast on FOX that Jon Batiste is set to sing the national anthem prior to Super Bowl 2025 kick-off in New Orleans on Feb. 9.
In addition to the five-time Grammy-winning artist’s “Star-Spangled Banner” performance, the NFL tapped Louisiana natives Trombone Shorty, Lauren Daigle and Ledisi as part of the Big Game’s pre-game entertainment. Batiste’s fellow Grammy winner Ledisi will hit the Caesars Superdome field to perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”
“We’re honored to work with this year’s pregame lineup to celebrate the rich musical legacy of New Orleans and the entire state,” NFL head of music Seth Dudowsky said in a statement. “The Super Bowl is a rare moment to unite fans around the world, and this year’s performers will bring the energy, soul and vibrant sounds of the region to a global stage, as we kick off Super Bowl LIX with a celebration to remember.”
Batiste is coming off the release of his Beethoven Blues album,which earned the 38-year-old his first No. 1 on Billboard’s Classical Albums chart. The project is the first of a forthcoming series of solo piano albums from Batiste.
Kendrick Lamar will serve as the headliner for the highly anticipated Super Bowl LIX halftime show in the Big Easy. The Apple Music halftime show is executive produced by Roc Nation in combination with Jesse Collins.
“Rap music is still the most impactful genre to date,” Lamar said at the time of his halftime announcement. “And I’ll be there to remind the world why. They got the right one.” K. Dot’s pgLang creative agency will provide direction for his performance.
There’s still a ton of football to be played this NFL season before Super Bowl Sunday (Feb. 9) on FOX arrives.
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Author: Al Denté
Photo: Rhododendrites