Charlie Puth's performance of the national anthem at Super Bowl 2026 was a highlight, marked by his distinct choral style and the powerful accompaniment of an orchestra. This memorable moment underscored his vocal talents and innovative musical approach. His participation set an inspiring tone for the major sporting event, following Brandi Carlile's acoustic delivery and preceding Bad Bunny's halftime show. Puth's reflections before the performance revealed his deep desire to showcase his abilities as a standalone vocalist and to inspire others through his music.
His rendition, infused with personal artistry and backed by a rich musical ensemble, demonstrated a unique interpretation of a classic. Puth expressed a long-standing aspiration to perform the anthem, aiming to affirm his standing as a vocalist and composer. The event showcased not only his artistic depth but also his commitment to delivering a performance that resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the transformative power of music.
A Unique Musical Interpretation at Super Bowl 2026
Charlie Puth opened the 2026 Super Bowl, held at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, with a distinctive choral rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” His performance, preceding the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks match-up, was distinguished by his use of a Rhodes keyboard, accompanied by a choir and a full orchestra. This arrangement added a sophisticated and rich texture to the traditional anthem, transforming it into a moment of elevated musical artistry. Dressed casually in a brown leather jacket and jeans, Puth exuded comfort and confidence, seemingly at home on the grand stage. The integration of the choir and orchestra not only amplified his vocals but also highlighted his renowned skill in crafting radio-ready musical compositions, proving his versatility beyond typical pop productions.
As the final notes of his performance faded, and in keeping with long-standing tradition, Air Force planes conducted a flyover. Puth was observed taking a moment to look skyward, a gesture that conveyed a deep appreciation for the moment. In a prior interview with *Rolling Stone*, Puth had articulated his long-held ambition to perform the national anthem, stating his desire to demonstrate his capabilities as a lead vocalist—a role he felt was sometimes overshadowed. He acknowledged the immense pressure leading up to such a high-profile event but expressed a conviction that once on stage, the performance would feel natural and sound impeccable, a sentiment that appeared to be borne out by the event.
Inspiring Musicality and Pre-Game Festivities
Puth's performance at Super Bowl 2026 was a testament to his intention to inspire. He conveyed in an interview with Apple Music's Zane Lowe that he hoped his rendition of the national anthem would move the audience and underscore the profound impact music can have on people's lives. His focus on the arrangement was pivotal, explaining his method of reverse-engineering musical ideas to create a deliverable and impactful product. This meticulous approach to his craft was evident in the seamless and powerful delivery of the anthem, resonating with listeners and setting a high artistic bar for the event.
Earlier in the day, the pre-game festivities also featured other notable musical talents. Brandi Carlile graced the stage with an acoustic performance of “America the Beautiful,” offering a heartfelt and stripped-down musical interlude. Following these opening acts, the excitement continued to build towards the much-anticipated halftime show, headlined by Bad Bunny. Puth had previously joined Bad Bunny and other Super Bowl LX performers at an Apple Music halftime show press conference, further indicating the collaborative and star-studded nature of the event. His commitment to creating a memorable and inspiring musical experience was clearly a driving force behind his powerful Super Bowl debut.