This is Why Usher Won’t Receive Payment For Super Bowl Halftime Show

Usher, much like the renowned performers who have graced the Super Bowl halftime stage before him, has dedicated months of meticulous preparation for what is undeniably the world’s grandest platform. However, despite the immense scale and global viewership of the event, Usher won’t be receiving any monetary compensation for his performance.

The iconic ‘Yeah!’ singer has been announced as the headline act for the 2024 Super Bowl halftime show, succeeding Rihanna who took the stage in 2023. It’s a coveted spot, with the halftime concert consistently ranking among the most-watched television broadcasts each year. Yet, tradition dictates that the artists who headline the show do so without financial remuneration.

Nevertheless, the allure of performing on such a monumental stage has continually drawn top-tier talent over the years, with luminaries like Beyoncé and The Weeknd among its ranks. While the lack of direct payment may seem surprising, it’s worth noting that the NFL assumes responsibility for covering the myriad expenses associated with orchestrating the halftime extravaganza.

The costs for producing the halftime show totalled a staggering $13 million in 2020, a figure shouldered entirely by the NFL. Additionally, the league also covers the artists’ travel expenses, ensuring their logistical needs are met.

“We do not pay the artists,” affirmed an NFL spokesperson in a 2016 statement to Forbes. “We cover expenses and production costs.”

So, what’s the incentive for artists like Usher to perform without a paycheck? Despite the absence of a traditional fee, the exposure and prestige associated with headlining the Super Bowl halftime show can prove invaluable for an artist’s career trajectory. While Usher may not receive a direct payment, the platform offers unparalleled visibility and publicity, often leading to increased album sales, concert ticket demand, and brand endorsements.

To address concerns about compensation, it’s worth noting that performers like Usher are typically paid according to a “union scale,” as outlined in contracts with organisations such as SAG-AFTRA. This ensures that artists receive a minimum wage for their time and efforts, though it’s often a fraction of what they might command for other engagements.

-Sushmita Sarkar