What's Happening?
Coco Jones delivered a powerful performance of 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' at the Super Bowl 2026 preshow, held at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Known as the Black National Anthem, the hymn dates back to 1900 and is a prayer for freedom and equality in America. Jones, dressed in a white gown with Pan-African flag colors, was accompanied by an orchestral octet. Her performance highlighted her vocal prowess, which earned her a Grammy for Best R&B Performance in 2024. The inclusion of 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' in the Super Bowl celebrations began in 2020 amid Black Lives Matter protests and criticism of the NFL's handling of player protests against racial inequality.
Why It's Important?
The performance by Coco Jones at such a high-profile event underscores
the ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in major American cultural events. By featuring 'Lift Every Voice and Sing', the NFL acknowledges the importance of addressing racial issues and celebrating African American heritage. This move can influence public perception and encourage other organizations to incorporate similar acknowledgments in their events. It also reflects the NFL's response to past criticisms regarding its handling of social justice issues, potentially impacting its relationship with diverse audiences and stakeholders.
What's Next?
Following Coco Jones' performance, the Super Bowl 2026 preshow continued with performances by Green Day, Brandi Carlile, and Charlie Puth. The halftime show featured Bad Bunny, indicating a diverse lineup aimed at appealing to a broad audience. The NFL's continued inclusion of diverse performances may lead to further discussions on how major sports events can serve as platforms for social change. Stakeholders, including sponsors and fans, may react positively to these efforts, potentially influencing future programming decisions.
