Artists Don’t Get Paid for Performing at the Super Bowl Halftime Show – Here’s Why

Coldplay experienced a similar boost, joining the ranks of British icons such as the Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, and The Who. Frontman Chris Martin described their participation as a source of inspiration, joking that everything he does is a “Bono move.”

The exposure gained from performing at the Super Bowl halftime show often translates into a significant boost in an artist’s music sales and streaming numbers. Following their 2020 performance, both Jennifer Lopez and Shakira experienced a surge in popularity on streaming platforms.

After their Super Bowl halftime show, Shakira’s streams rose by 230 percent and Lopez’s by 335 percent, with featured songs seeing the biggest spikes. Digital sales also jumped 893 percent, led by “Whenever, Wherever” and “On the Floor.” Though unpaid beyond union scale, the exposure proved highly lucrative.

The financial benefits of a Super Bowl halftime show go far past streaming and sales, making it a strategic opportunity for artists. Marketing expert Sheri Lambert described it as a “marketing partnership rather than a performance,” in an interview, explaining that the publicity and prestige outweigh a paycheck.

With over 100 million viewers watching live, artists gain global exposure, leading to increased streaming, ticket sales, brand deals, and even film placements. Rihanna’s halftime performance, for example, seamlessly promoted Fenty Beauty when she reapplied makeup mid-show—a moment that went viral and boosted her brand’s visibility.

Despite its appeal, not every artist is eager to take the stage. Lambert pointed out that while the exposure is unmatched, the performance also comes with scrutiny. Some decline the opportunity, wary of the praise and criticism that can follow—just as Janet Jackson experienced after her controversial 2004 appearance.

The Super Bowl halftime show is one of the most influential platforms in entertainment, offering global exposure that far outweighs a paycheck. Beyond music, it serves as a powerful marketing tool, with viral moments like Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty promotion demonstrating its commercial impact.

While the opportunity can elevate an artist’s career, it also comes with scrutiny, leading some to decline the invitation. Despite the risks, it remains a highly sought-after stage, shaping pop culture and reinforcing the power of live performance.