The NFL, Apple Music, and Roc Nation announced on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026, that Jay-Z will headline the Super Bowl LXI halftime show. The performance is scheduled for Feb. 14, 2027, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. The announcement followed several days of speculation regarding the rapper’s role in the upcoming festivities.
Jay-Z, born Shawn Carter, has served as a producer and advisor for the league’s entertainment presentations since his company, Roc Nation, partnered with the NFL in 2019. That agreement, which also involves the league's Inspire Change social justice initiative, was renewed in 2024 for an additional five years. While Jay-Z previously stated in 2019 that he was not seeking a performance for himself, he noted in a January 2024 interview that he might consider picking himself "maybe one year."
The selection process for the halftime headliner is led by Jay-Z through Roc Nation in collaboration with the NFL and Apple Music. Jesse Collins, the executive producer of the halftime show, stated in September 2024 that the artist selection is "a decision that Jay makes." Before Jay-Z was finalized for the 2027 slot, other artists reportedly under consideration included Miley Cyrus and Justin Bieber.
The 2027 performance will take place at the same venue where Jay-Z recently concluded his "Jay-Z 30" tour, which marked the 30th anniversary of his debut album, "Reasonable Doubt." Jay-Z is a 25-time Grammy Award winner and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2021. The NFL did not respond to initial requests for comment following the confirmation of the news by music industry insiders.
The selection of Jay-Z also highlights the ongoing influence of the partnership between the NFL and Roc Nation on the league's cultural output. Since 2019, the halftime stage has featured artists such as Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, and The Weeknd. These productions represent a shift in the league's entertainment strategy, aiming to present a broader picture of popular music. The 2027 show will place Jay-Z on the same stage that hosted a star-studded hip-hop performance led by Dr. Dre in 2022, continuing a trend of high-profile rap and R&B showcases at the event.
For the general public, the halftime show remains a focal point of Super Bowl Sunday, which will air on ESPN and be simulcast on ABC in 2027. Fans will notice the performance during the midpoint of the game on Feb. 14, 2027. While Jay-Z is the confirmed headliner, the involvement of special guests remains unknown, though past tour appearances by Beyoncé, Nas, and Pharrell Williams have led to speculation regarding potential cameos. The official production will likely be supported by extensive marketing campaigns from Apple Music leading up to the game date.