Brantley Gilbert Supports TPUSA’s Halftime: Country Stars Need Super Bowl Spotlight
Country artist Brantley Gilbert has taken a public stance in support of the alternative Super Bowl halftime show organized by Turning Point USA (TPUSA). He emphasized that his participation is not intended to be divisive but rather a celebration of his beliefs in unity.
Brantley Gilbert’s Super Bowl Statement
On social media platforms like X, Instagram, and Threads, Gilbert expressed his feelings about the show, which falls on Sunday. He pointed out that country artists have not been featured in the Super Bowl halftime for over 20 years. “It’s been more than 20 years since a country artist has been asked to play the Super Bowl halftime show,” he noted.
Context of the Alternative Show
The TPUSA’s event is perceived by some as a protest against the NFL’s decision to feature Bad Bunny, an artist whose performances are primarily in Spanish. Despite the controversy, Gilbert views this opportunity as a personal milestone. He stated, “I imagined my kids watching their daddy perform at halftime during the biggest game in American Football.”
Gilbert is aware of the mixed reactions to his decision. Many social media users criticized his performance, suggesting that it doesn’t hold the same weight as a traditional halftime show. Some comments highlighted the perceived disconnection, with users stating, “You’re not playing in the Super Bowl halftime show. You’re playing in a pretend halftime show.”
Historic Participation of Country Artists
Historically, country performers have had limited visibility during the Super Bowl halftime show. Only twice has a country artist performed in the main halftime event: Shania Twain in 2003 and a lineup including The Judds in 1993. Nevertheless, country artists have participated in singing the national anthem during various Super Bowls.
Country Stars’ National Anthem Appearances
- 2021: Eric Church with Jazmine Sullivan
- 2022: Mickey Guyton
- 2023: Chris Stapleton
- 2024: Reba McEntire
About Brantley Gilbert
Gilbert is one of four performers announced for the TPUSA event, alongside Gabby Barrett, Lee Brice, and Kid Rock. He has shared that his career began in Jackson County, Georgia, and much of his music reflects his life experiences, including overcoming adversity and his commitment to his family.
In his statements, he advocates for unity, claiming, “The way I treat people isn’t conditional based on what our differences may be.” He hopes his participation in the halftime event will foster a sense of togetherness among Americans.
Conclusion
As Gilbert prepares for the show, he also promotes his recent album, “Tattoos,” which debuted at No. 42 on the Billboard country albums chart in 2024. In addition to his music, Gilbert is known for his advocacy on gun rights. His full-back tattoo features the Second Amendment and symbols of firearms.
With a storied career marked by significant achievements, Brantley Gilbert’s choice to participate in the alternative halftime show has sparked conversations about representation in mainstream entertainment.
