Charlie Puth to Perform National Anthem at Super Bowl LX
Super Bowl Sunday is one of America's biggest cultural events, blending heart-pounding football with star-studded entertainment. As anticipation builds for Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026, fans are buzzing about the musical lineup that will set the tone for the evening. Leading the charge is none other than Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Charlie Puth, who will deliver a stirring rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner." This marks a milestone for Puth, making his debut as a performer at the NFL's championship game. With the New England Patriots facing off against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, the event promises to be unforgettable.
Who is Charlie Puth? A Rise to Stardom
Charlie Puth, born Charles Otto Puth Jr. on December 2, 1991, in Rumson, New Jersey, has evolved from a YouTube sensation into a global music powerhouse. His journey began in the early 2010s when viral covers of hits like Adele's "Someone Like You" caught the eye of industry insiders. A pivotal moment came in 2011 when he performed the duet with Emily Luther on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, propelling him into the spotlight. Ellen DeGeneres herself signed him to her eleveneleven label, kickstarting collaborations on jingles, theme songs, and promotional singles.
Puth's breakthrough arrived in 2015 with his debut single "Marvin Gaye," featuring Meghan Trainor, which topped charts worldwide and earned him his first Grammy nomination. His discography includes three studio albums: Nine Track Mind (2016), Voicenotes (2018) – nominated for Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical at the 61st Grammys – and Charlie (2022). Fans are eagerly awaiting his fourth album, slated for release on March 27, 2026, just weeks after the Super Bowl.
Collaborations and Chart-Topping Hits
What truly cements Puth's legacy is his songwriting prowess and high-profile collaborations. His duet with Wiz Khalifa, "See You Again," from the Furious 7 soundtrack, spent 12 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and garnered a Song of the Year Grammy nod. The emotional tribute to Paul Walker resonated deeply, showcasing Puth's ability to blend pop sensibility with heartfelt storytelling. Other hits like "Attention," "How Long," and "We Don't Talk Anymore" (with Selena Gomez) have amassed billions of streams, highlighting his signature falsetto and infectious melodies.
At 34 years old, Puth's selection for the Super Bowl anthem underscores his mainstream appeal and vocal versatility. Analysts note that his fresh, youthful energy could infuse the traditional performance with modern flair, appealing to a diverse audience from Gen Z to boomers. As one music critic put it, "Puth's rendition might just redefine the anthem for a new generation, much like his hits have done for pop music."
Super Bowl LX: Event Details and Musical Lineup
Super Bowl LX kicks off at 6:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Levi's Stadium, home to the San Francisco 49ers and a venue known for its tech-savvy amenities and vibrant atmosphere. The opening ceremony, starting at 6 p.m. ET, will feature a series of performances broadcast live on NBC and Peacock. Charlie Puth's anthem will be followed by Brandi Carlile's soulful take on "America the Beautiful" and Coco Jones' powerful delivery of "Lift Every Voice and Sing." These pre-game acts set a patriotic and inclusive tone before the gridiron action begins.
The Halftime Show Spectacle
No Super Bowl would be complete without the halftime show, and this year, Bad Bunny headlines. The Puerto Rican superstar, known for his reggaeton and Latin trap hits, is expected to deliver a high-energy set blending his chart-toppers like "Tití Me Preguntó" and "Un Verano Sin Ti." Past halftime performers, from The Weeknd to Rihanna, have used the platform to break records and spark cultural conversations – Bad Bunny's appearance could solidify his crossover dominance in the U.S. market.
The Teams: Patriots vs. Seahawks Showdown
The matchup pits two storied franchises against each other. The New England Patriots, led by their dynasty-building legacy under Tom Brady (though he's long retired by 2026), are making their 12th Super Bowl appearance. They've claimed victory six times, including a dramatic 2015 win over the Seahawks. Seattle, returning for their fourth trip, boasts a Super Bowl title from 2014 against the Denver Broncos, powered by the Legion of Boom defense.
With both teams hungry for redemption – the Patriots seeking to add to their trophy case and the Seahawks aiming to reclaim glory – this game could go down to the wire. Analysts predict a close contest, with offensive fireworks from emerging stars on both sides.
The National Anthem: A Super Bowl Tradition
"The Star-Spangled Banner," penned by Francis Scott Key in 1814 during the War of 1812, has been the U.S. national anthem since 1931. At the Super Bowl, it's become a rite of passage for artists, from Whitney Houston's iconic 1991 version to Carrie Underwood's powerhouse 2010 performance. Puth's inclusion continues this tradition, blending reverence with contemporary artistry. The Smithsonian notes the song's enduring symbolism of resilience, perfectly aligning with the Super Bowl's themes of perseverance and triumph.
How to Watch Super Bowl LX
Catch every moment on NBC, with streaming options on Peacock and FuboTV. For cord-cutters, Peacock offers comprehensive coverage, including pre-game analysis and post-game breakdowns. International fans can access highlights via NFL Network. Whether you're tailgating or streaming from home, the Super Bowl is accessible to all.
In a year filled with NFL surprises, Charlie Puth's anthem performance adds an extra layer of excitement. As Super Bowl LX approaches, one thing is clear: music and sports will collide in spectacular fashion, creating memories that last beyond the final whistle.