The halftime show at Super Bowl XXXVI, held on February 3, 2002, was a memorable and poignant tribute to the victims of the September 11 attacks. Featuring the Irish rock band U2, the performance was a powerful moment of reflection and remembrance during a time of national healing. The band's choice of songs and the visual tribute to the victims made the halftime show one of the most impactful in Super Bowl history.
The Decision to Feature U2
Originally, singer Janet Jackson
was booked as the halftime performer for Super Bowl XXXVI. However, following the September 11 attacks, it was decided that a different artist would be needed to set the appropriate tone for the event. U2 was selected as the replacement after NFL executives attended one of their concerts in New York City and were moved by the band's tribute to the attack victims.
U2's performance at Madison Square Garden included a scrolling list of the victims' names, which left a lasting impression on the audience. The NFL recognized the band's ability to convey a message of hope and resilience, making them the ideal choice for the halftime show. U2's music and message aligned with the theme of "Heroes, Hope, and Homeland," which the NFL had adopted for the Super Bowl.
The Halftime Performance
U2's halftime performance at Super Bowl XXXVI featured three songs: "Beautiful Day," "MLK," and "Where the Streets Have No Name." The band used a heart-shaped stage, replicating the design from their Elevation Tour, and paid tribute to the victims of the September 11 attacks. During the latter two songs, the names of the victims were projected onto a vertical scrim behind the stage and across the interior of the Superdome.
The performance was a moving tribute, with lead singer Bono opening his jacket at the end to reveal an American flag in the lining. The halftime show drew a 38.3 Nielsen rating and was watched by 82.9 million viewers in the United States. Critics praised the band's performance and the poignancy of the tribute, highlighting the role of music in healing and uniting people during times of crisis.
Legacy of the Halftime Show
U2's halftime performance at Super Bowl XXXVI is considered one of the best in Super Bowl history. The tribute to the September 11 victims was a powerful moment that resonated with viewers and demonstrated the ability of music to provide comfort and hope. The performance set a precedent for future halftime shows, emphasizing the importance of meaningful and relevant content.
The legacy of U2's performance continues to be remembered as a defining moment in Super Bowl history. It exemplifies the intersection of sports, music, and national events, highlighting the broader cultural significance of the halftime show.
