For sports fans, it was Patrick Mahomes’ night, maybe Jalen Hurts’. For pop music lovers, it was “Riri Day”, Rihanna’s day. More than a Super Bowl halftime show, Sunday night’s number marked the long-awaited reunion between the singer and her audience.
A wait that was worth it
It’s been a while since we last saw Rihanna on stage. For her return, she did not skimp on the grandeur of the said scene, offering herself the Super Bowl halftime, no less. His performance, while very successful, was rather… static and minimalistic. We are used during these Super Bowl halftime numbers to a ton of movement, to a rolling fire that does not give us a moment’s respite. Rihanna has instead opted for an interesting sobriety. Of course, this is one of the most watched musical moments of the year, we couldn’t escape a striking scenography. And, surprise, without making too much of it, the artist revealed a plump belly, highlighted by her coat (her second pregnancy was then confirmed by one of her representatives). All dressed in red, on a platform suspended very high in the air, she announced her colors from the first seconds. His bearing had its effect, his piercing gaze and his provocative smile grabbing us instantly. The choice of songs was effective too. By means of a few dance steps, a beautiful vocal performance and an interpretation of her greatest hits, Rihanna staged a completely successful comeback.
A challenge met
A bit of context now: In 2019, Rihanna declined an invitation to perform at the Super Bowl halftime show in protest at the NFL’s handling of racial issues. Four years later, the artist has turned around. This decision does not come as his career is going well, but rather almost seven years after the release of his last album, in 2016. No doubt, for many music lovers, the halftime of this Super Bowl LVII, otherwise known as “the return of Rihanna”, mattered much more than the hour of play that led to the Kansas City Chiefs’ triumph. Good news: the pressure was high, but the interpreter of S.O.S. was in full control of his ways, never letting it appear that so many years had passed since his last great performance. Less good news: Rihanna could well disappear again. She gave no hint that this “comeback” is one that will last beyond the moment offered on Sunday. Hopefully this number marks the beginning of a new musical era for the singer. But if not, she at least gave us a good reason on Sunday to keep waiting.
The celebration of a vast repertoire
Rihanna, whose career began 17 years ago, had a long list of titles to pick from. We were treated to several of his successes, chained quickly, but each time allowing a nostalgic return to the past. The 34-year-old artist, majestic on her platform, started with Bitch Better Have My Money, while dancers on the floor, all dressed in white, accompanied him. She then embarked on Where Have You BeenThen Only Girl (In the World), We Found Love, Rude Boy And Work. The performance unfolded in a kind of crescendo, the moment becoming ever more intense. The interaction between Rihanna and her dancers did a lot in the otherwise very simple staging. This choice ultimately served her well: we were above all focused on her voice and her attitude, which are always captivating. Everything happened really fast : Wild Thoughts started, then Rihanna sat down and performed For It Upbefore the trumpets ofAll of the Lights resound and other dancers land on the lawn. For Run This Town, a group of musicians was waiting for him on the central platform. And, in the blink of an eye, we were already in the final, which was launched with Umbrellawhile the singer flew again on her suspended platform. Diamonds allowed him to finish strong, vocally especially. Radiant, visibly proud and barely out of breath, Rihanna was all smiles.
The national anthem by Chris Stapleton
He gave a superb performance during the Grammy awards night the week before. This time he brought tears to the Chiefs and Eagles players during his performance of the national anthem, minutes before the game kicked off. A special mention must go to country singer Chris Stapleton, who had the important task of starting the evening with the Star Spangled Banner. These few solemn minutes are often a very good moment of music. Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Cher, Mariah Carey and (most importantly) Whitney Houston have all offered their gorgeous versions over the Super Bowls. Chris Stapleton, Sunday evening, did not fail in the immense task. His Fender electric guitar in hand, his sunglasses hiding his eyes, the winner of eight Grammy awards was also impeccable, with a refined interpretation of the American anthem. Her soulful tenor voice, powerful and touching, was breathtaking. Close-ups of the camera on certain players, moved to tears by the interpretation of the musician (and, probably, by the fact of being at the Super Bowl), made it possible to see the immensity of the talent of Chris Stapleton.