Get ready for a moment that will silence even the liveliest Super Bowl party—the national anthem. But here's where it gets controversial: can anyone truly do justice to 'The Star-Spangled Banner'? As the big game approaches, fans are buzzing with one burning question: Who will be the voice behind this iconic performance in 2026? Let’s dive in.
Super Bowl Sunday is nearly upon us, and it’s time to start planning your ultimate celebration. First up? The game day snacks, of course! Whether you’re team buffalo chicken, a dip enthusiast, or all about those finger foods, your spread is sure to be a hit. Next, you’ll want to brush up on the halftime performer’s greatest hits—no one wants to be the only one not singing along. And let’s not forget the most critical task: claiming the best spot on the couch. But before the coin toss, there’s one tradition that unites us all: the national anthem.
Amid the chaos of watch parties, bustling kitchens, and crowded living rooms, the opening notes of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' have a magical way of hushing the crowd. So, it’s no surprise that fans are already wondering: Who will sing the national anthem at Super Bowl LX in 2026? And this is the part most people miss—the anthem isn’t just a song; it’s a moment that sets the tone for the entire night.
The answer? Charlie Puth. Yes, the Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and producer will take on this monumental task on February 8, 2026, at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The NFL announced Puth as the chosen performer, with his rendition airing live on NBC (and streaming on Peacock), alongside a Spanish-language broadcast on Telemundo.
But who exactly is Charlie Puth? If you’ve ever jammed to 'See You Again,' 'Attention,' or 'We Don’t Talk Anymore,' you’re already familiar with his work. Puth’s catalog spans from upbeat pop anthems to heartfelt ballads, and he even got a shoutout from Taylor Swift in her 2024 song, where she declared, 'Charlie Puth should be a bigger artist.' Looks like her prediction is coming true!
In interviews leading up to the game, Puth shared that he recorded a demo and submitted it to the NFL as part of the selection process. He didn’t shy away from the challenge, calling 'The Star-Spangled Banner' 'the hardest song ever written' due to its staggering three-octave range. 'I just want to show people that I can do it,' he told Rolling Stone. 'I feel like people don’t always see me as a standalone vocalist… But once I’m there, it’s going to feel so comfortable and sound so good.'
But here’s the real question: Can Puth’s modern pop sensibilities translate to a song steeped in tradition? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Puth won’t be the only star gracing the pregame show. Brandi Carlile will perform 'America the Beautiful,' while Coco Jones takes on 'Lift Every Voice and Sing.' This year, the NFL is also prioritizing accessibility, featuring American Sign Language performances by Deaf artists Fred Beam and Julian Ortiz, who will sign the national anthem, 'Lift Every Voice and Sing,' and 'America the Beautiful,' respectively.
Whether you’re hosting a massive Super Bowl bash, gathering with your closest friends, or squeezing into a crowded bar, don’t miss that opening anthem moment. It’s the tradition that signals the night has officially begun. So, grab your snacks, settle into your spot, and prepare to be moved—because this year’s anthem is one you won’t forget.
What do you think about Charlie Puth’s selection? Is he the right choice, or would you have picked someone else? Share your thoughts below!
