Singer-songwriter Charlie Puth delivered a memorable rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at the 2026 Super Bowl, revealing his performance was a direct tribute to the late Whitney Houston. Puth's unique arrangement incorporated a Rhodes keyboard, a full choir, and an orchestra, creating a distinct choral interpretation of the national anthem.
Key Takeaways
- Charlie Puth performed the national anthem at Super Bowl LX.
- His arrangement honored Whitney Houston's iconic 1991 Super Bowl performance.
- Puth utilized a Rhodes keyboard, choir, and orchestra for his rendition.
- Performing the anthem was a long-held dream for the artist.
A Dream Realized on the Grand Stage
For Charlie Puth, singing the national anthem at the Super Bowl was a lifelong ambition. He had publicly expressed his desire to perform the anthem earlier in the year, emphasizing his wish to showcase his vocal abilities.
"I've actually always wanted to do this," Puth stated in a prior interview. He added, "I just want to show people that I can do it." This sentiment highlights the personal significance of the performance for the artist, who often feels his vocal talent is underestimated.
Interesting Fact
Whitney Houston's 1991 Super Bowl national anthem performance is widely regarded as one of the most iconic renditions in history, setting a high bar for future performers.
The Whitney Houston Tribute
Following his performance, Puth took to social media to elaborate on the inspiration behind his arrangement. He confirmed that his distinctive musical choices were a deliberate homage to Whitney Houston.
"I wrote the arrangement in a very specific way to honor Whitney Houston – I hope that was heard," Puth shared on X after the event.
Houston's legendary 1991 Super Bowl performance remains a benchmark for national anthem renditions. Puth's decision to channel that spirit speaks to the enduring impact of her artistry on musicians across generations.
Collaborative Musical Effort
Puth's performance was not a solo effort. He brought together a diverse group of musicians to achieve his vision. The Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, the Sainted Choir, and the Color of Noize Orchestra all contributed to the rich, layered sound.
Additionally, Puth acknowledged the contributions of Steve Hackman and Kenny G, who joined him on stage. He also thanked Adam Blackstone for his work on the choir arrangement, underscoring the collaborative nature of the performance.
Background on Charlie Puth
Charlie Puth gained prominence through viral videos and later achieved mainstream success with hit songs like "See You Again." He is known for his perfect pitch and intricate musical arrangements, often producing and writing his own material.
Crafting the Arrangement
The intricate arrangement was a key component of Puth's tribute. He described his process of reverse-engineering how he hears music in his head, then meticulously breaking it down to create a tangible product. This approach underscores his detailed musical craftsmanship.
During a press conference leading up to the Super Bowl, Puth discussed the importance of the arrangement with Apple Music's Zane Lowe. He emphasized that "the arrangement is everything for me." This commitment to musical detail was evident in the final performance.
Performance Details
- Instrument: Rhodes keyboard
- Vocal Support: Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, Sainted Choir
- Orchestra: Color of Noize Orchestra
- Guest Musicians: Steve Hackman, Kenny G
Inspiring the Audience Through Music
Beyond the technical aspects and the tribute, Puth expressed a deeper hope for his performance. He aimed to inspire viewers and remind them of music's profound power.
"I want them to feel inspired. I want everybody to know that music is such an amazing thing and can change so many people's lives," Puth stated when asked about his aspirations for the performance.
This message resonates with his career-long dedication to music as a transformative force. His Super Bowl appearance provided a massive platform to share this belief with millions.
The Pressure and the Comfort
Despite the immense pressure associated with performing on such a grand stage, Puth expressed confidence in his ability to deliver. He acknowledged the build-up of nerves but anticipated a sense of comfort once on stage.
"It'll be pressure the week leading up to it and the hour leading up to it. But once I'm there, it's going to feel so comfortable and it's going to sound so good," he predicted. His calm demeanor and polished performance suggested his prediction proved accurate.
Super Bowl LX Entertainment Highlights
Puth's national anthem performance set the tone for a night of major musical acts. He was part of a larger entertainment lineup that included Bad Bunny's highly anticipated Apple Music halftime show. The event brought together various artists, creating a dynamic showcase of musical talent.
The Super Bowl continues to be a premier platform for artists to reach a global audience, blending sports and entertainment into a single, high-profile event. Puth's performance added a unique and heartfelt moment to the evening's festivities.