The 2023 Super Bowl halftime show will include a performance by Rihanna on February 12 in Glendale, Arizona, as the NFL begins its first year of a new partnership with Apple Music as the principal sponsor, replacing former long-time collaborator Pepsi.
Speaking on the legendary musician’s upcoming performance, NFL head of music Seth Dudowsky says, “We are thrilled to welcome Rihanna to the Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show stage. She’s a once-in-a-generation artist who has been a cultural force throughout her career.” He continues, “We look forward to collaborating with her, Roc Nation, and Apple Music to bring fans another historic Halftime Show performance.”
Since her previous public performance at the Grammys in early 2018 and the release of the legendary singer’s latest solo album, Anti, in January of 2016, this will be the artist’s first planned return to the stage. Fans have given Rihanna’s planned ninth studio album, which they refer to as “R9,” an almost mythical quality, while the singer has instead put her attention toward her multi-million dollar ventures. This includes the lingerie label Savage x Fenty as well as the skincare and cosmetics businesses that helped her earn an estimated $1.7 billion in 2021 according to Forbes.
The halftime performance in California back in February was Roc Nation’s third such event. Eminem’s set was bookended by sets by local heroes Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Kendrick Lamar, as well as the vocalist Mary J. Blige. Following his performance of “Lose Yourself,” Eminem seemed to kneel in solidarity with Colin Kaepernick’s protest, a gesture that took place during rehearsals so the National Football League was seemingly aware of it.
