Pop star Charlie Puth has issued a defiant response to critics questioning his vocal prowess following the announcement he will sing the National Anthem at next year's Super Bowl.
Puth's Direct Response to Social Media Backlash
The four-time Grammy-nominated artist, famed for hits like "Attention" and "We Don't Talk Anymore", was confirmed this Sunday as part of the Super Bowl LX pregame entertainment. He will perform "The Star-Spangled Banner" at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California on Sunday, 8 February 2026.
Almost immediately after the news broke, some users on social media platform X expressed disappointment, with one comparing him unfavourably to the legendary Whitney Houston. Puth, 34, directly replied to the critic, 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. It'll be one of my best vocal performances."
The Full Pregame and Halftime Lineup
Puth will be joined in the pregame ceremonies by fellow artists Brandi Carlile, who will sing "America the Beautiful," and Coco Jones, performing "Lift Every Voice and Sing." The event is produced by Roc Nation in collaboration with DPS and Jesse Collins.
Jon Barker, the NFL's senior vice president of global event production, praised the trio as artists who "bring a distinct voice to the moment." Desiree Perez, CEO of Roc Nation, added they are "generational talents" helping to embody "the very best of culture, live performance and our country."
The halftime show will feature Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny, whose selection was announced in September. The 31-year-old Latin trap artist's booking previously sparked controversy among some political groups, criticism he addressed during a Saturday Night Live appearance, expressing his excitement for the global platform.
Career Context and Broadcast Details
Charlie Puth, who possesses perfect pitch, first rose to global prominence with the 2015 chart-topper "See You Again" alongside Wiz Khalifa. His Super Bowl appearance will precede the release of his fourth studio album, "Whatever's Clever!", scheduled for 6 March 2026.
All performances, including the pregame shows and the Bad Bunny halftime spectacle, will be broadcast live on NBC, Telemundo, and streaming service Peacock.
