Brandy Carlisle’s rendition of “America the Beautiful” at the Super Bowl LX pre-game ceremony captivated the entire stadium. Her powerful, resonant voice—widely regarded as one of the finest in contemporary American music—lent the performance an unmatched gravitas, setting a striking tone for the championship event.
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Preparation and Performance
Speaking to Variety, Carlisle admitted, “I was a little nervous. The song approached the upper limits of my vocal range, so performing it with confidence was a true challenge.” She delivered the piece entirely in this high register, embellishing it with a distinctive vibrato that heightened its emotional impact.
Carlisle accompanied herself on acoustic guitar and was joined by SistaStrings, a duo of sisters who frequently collaborate with her in both recordings and live concerts. The stadium’s giant screens displayed sweeping visuals of Seattle and New England, her hometowns’ cities, adding a rich visual narrative to the melodic performance. “This arrangement isn’t rhythmic but melodically driven,” Carlisle explained, emphasising the song’s lyrical and harmonic beauty.
Meaning and Interpretation
Carlisle reflected on the song’s enduring significance: “America the Beautiful was written over 125 years ago by Katharine Lee Bates. I haven’t altered her words; the patriotism still resonates deeply within me. It’s a song of hope, love, and faith—acknowledging where we are and celebrating where we aim to go.”
She also noted that the performance was not meant to ignore the country’s challenges. “For those who cannot celebrate patriotically, my intention is not to disregard the issues. Rather, I hope to inspire progress and contribute positively.”
Super Bowl LX Highlights
The halftime show featured Bad Bunny, Charlie Puth, and Coco Jones, delivering a vibrant display of cultural diversity. Carlisle praised the lineup: “The performers together reflect America itself—people of all ages, genders, and cultures. Bad Bunny was phenomenal, an incredibly dynamic performer.”
Expressing affection for her hometown team, the Seattle Seahawks, she added with a smile, “It may not matter officially, but my heart will always have a Seahawks jersey on.”
Key Super Bowl LX Performances
| Segment | Artist/Group | Role | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Game Song | Brandy Carlisle | “America the Beautiful” | High-register melodic rendition with SistaStrings |
| Halftime Show | Bad Bunny, Charlie Puth, Coco Jones | Main Performers | Vibrant multicultural performances, dynamic stage presence |
Brandy Carlisle’s artistry made the Super Bowl LX pre-game ceremony unforgettable, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. Her performance demonstrated how patriotism and artistic mastery can combine to shine on an international stage.