The Super Bowl halftime show is one of the most-watched performances in the world. Millions tune in to see top artists deliver spectacular shows filled with lights, fireworks and choreographed routines. Despite the massive production, these performers do not get paid by the NFL.
The league covers all production costs, including stage setup, dancers, band members and special effects. Some of these shows cost over $10 million to produce. But the artists walk away without a paycheck. Instead, they gain something even more valuable—global exposure.
Performing at the Super Bowl can send music sales and streams soaring overnight. After Lady Gaga’s 2017 halftime show, her music sales jumped over 1,000% in a single day. In 2020, Jennifer Lopez and Shakira saw their song catalog sales increase by 900% after their performance. The same trend happens every year, turning a Super Bowl appearance into a massive marketing boost.
Beyond the sales spike, the halftime show raises an artist’s profile for years. It can lead to bigger endorsement deals, sold-out tours and invitations to perform at other major events. Industry experts say a Super Bowl performance can be a career-changing moment.
While it may seem surprising that top stars take the stage without getting paid, the reality is they benefit in ways far beyond a one-time paycheck. The exposure and long-term impact make the Super Bowl halftime show one of the most valuable unpaid gigs in the industry.
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