Charlie Puth Defends His Vocal Ability Ahead of Super Bowl 2026 Anthem Performance
It appears Taylor Swift's prediction about Charlie Puth's rising prominence is coming true.
The NFL confirmed on November 30 that the Grammy-nominated artist will deliver the national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner," at the 2026 Super Bowl.
Shortly after the announcement, a dissenting voice expressed disappointment on X (formerly Twitter), remarking that Puth might not have the vocal prowess to live up to legendary performances like Whitney Houston’s iconic 1991 rendition.
Rather than ignoring the critique, Charlie took the chance to reassure fans about his upcoming performance.
"I'll never claim to match Whitney Houston’s legendary vocals," he stated on X, "but we're crafting a truly unique arrangement—in D major."
The 33-year-old artist added confidently, "It will be one of my strongest vocal showings yet."
Alongside Puth’s anthem, Brandi Carlile and Coco Jones will perform "America the Beautiful" and "Lift Every Voice and Sing," respectively, highlighting the event’s musical diversity.
Recognizing the challenge of "The Star-Spangled Banner," Charlie shared some insights in an Instagram video posted November 30, comparing it to coaching a football team.
"Did you know that one of the most beautiful songs is also among the toughest to sing?" he explained. "Most difficult songs span about one octave, but this anthem stretches from a low D to a high D, plus an additional five notes up to a soaring A."
Despite some skeptics, the NFL stands firmly behind Puth. Earlier in September, they revealed that Bad Bunny will headline the halftime show.
"The Super Bowl represents the world’s premier entertainment platform," said Jon Barker, NFL senior vice president of global event production, in the November 30 press release. "We are excited to showcase artists who truly reflect the best of music and culture, setting the stage for a memorable experience for fans worldwide."
While anticipation builds for Charlie Puth and Bad Bunny’s appearances at the 2026 Super Bowl, fans can revisit some of the most unforgettable moments from past halftime shows and celebrity appearances.
Notable past performers and guests include Ashley Avignone, Alana Haim, Taylor Swift, Este and Danielle Haim, Cynthia Erivo, Brenda Song, Macaulay Culkin, Leonardo DiCaprio, Bradley Cooper with his daughter Lea, Seal, Teyana Taylor, Karrueche Tran, Russell Wilson, Ciara, Lady Gaga, Dylan and Barbara Palvin Sprouse, Kevin Hart, Anne Hathaway, Serena Williams, SZA, Paul Rudd, Brittany and Patrick Mahomes, Jordon Hudson, Nikki Glaser, Donald and Ivanka Trump, Ice Spice, Samuel L. Jackson, Ledisi, Master P, Jon Batiste, Kendrick Lamar, Jon Hamm, Harry Connick Jr., Jay-Z with Blue Ivy and Rumi, Pete Davidson, and Olivia Culpo.