/indigomusic/media/media_files/2026/02/10/harry-po-2026-02-10t120034-2026-02-10-12-00-48.png)
Image Courtesy: Variety
Charlie Puth set an emotional tone at Super Bowl 2026 with a powerful rendition of the U.S. national anthem, one that carried deep meaning beyond the moment itself. Carefully arranged as a tribute to the late Whitney Houston and her legendary 1991 Super Bowl performance, Puth's soulful delivery, choral backing and thoughtful musical choices turned the opening ceremony into a heartfelt homage to one of music's greatest voices.
A Respectful, Soulful Opening to Super Bowl LX
Pop sensation Charlie Puth took center stage at Super Bowl LX on 8th February, before to the start of the New England Patriots vs. Seattle Seahawks game with an emotional performance of 'The Star-Spangled Banner.' His performance, which took place at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, was notable not only as a ceremonial opening to the NFL's biggest game but also as a musical homage to Whitney Houston's famous national anthem performance at Super Bowl XXV in 1991, which has long been hailed as one of the most moving in the event's history.
/indigomusic/media/post_attachments/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/P1040TSR-e1770642177735-591021.jpg)
Image Courtesy: Billboard
Puth, who is well-known for songs like 'Attention' and 'See You Again,' shocked many by choosing to perform the anthem with a rich, choral-backed approach. Alongside the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, the Sainted Choir, and the Color of Noize Orchestra, he performed the song on a Rhodes keyboard, producing a multi-layered sound that both highlighted his musicality and paid homage to tradition.
As the stadium watched and fighter jets executed the customary flyover, he stood on a plain white platform with a live orchestra and holy choral elements, and his performance progressed from gentle beginnings to a spectacular finish.
/indigomusic/media/post_attachments/i/2026/02/09/b9a76bb4-ee0d-4b62-a118-2c766a0f0658/untitled-design-2026-02-08t161115-027-631753.png)
Image Courtesy: Unique This
Why Whitney Houston Inspired His Arrangement
Whitney Houston's breathtaking rendition of the anthem at Super Bowl XXV in 1991 is often remembered as a high-water mark for national anthem performances—a powerful blend of technical mastery and emotional impact that resonated worldwide. By revealing that his arrangement was written "in a very specific way to honour Whitney Houston," Puth publicly recognized her influence and hoped that his performance would convey that goal.
Ahead of the game, Puth talked about the challenge of tackling such a storied song. He clarified that he had spent months trying to make the arrangement feel both genuine and intimate, adding that the anthem is "very musically challenging to perform," and requires a wide vocal range and emotional depth.
/indigomusic/media/post_attachments/photos/590973bfc14b3c606c10846a/master/pass/Henderson-Whitney-Houston-and-the-National-Anthem-732804.jpg)
Image Courtesy: New Yorker
Rather than trying to imitate Houston directly, he sought to capture the spirit of her approach—one that respects the song's national significance while allowing his own style to shine through.He later thanked the musicians and choir members who joined him onstage on social media, expressing his appreciation for music and the chance to be a part of such a momentous evening.
The Moment and Its Place in Super Bowl History
Puth's performance did more than simply open a football game; it connected the contemporary Super Bowl to a storied history of outstanding anthem performances. Although it sparked similarities, his decision to focus on a tribute to Whitney Houston also sparked a larger discussion about how artists respect tradition while leaving their own mark. The audience response was broadly positive, with many noting that his attention to musical arrangement, choral support and emotional delivery made it one of the standout pregame moments of Super Bowl LX.
As part of Puth's continuous musical journey, which also includes the impending release of his fourth studio album 'Whatever's Clever!' the performance presented a moment where pop artistry and national tradition collided on one of the biggest venues in the world.
