Kid Rock Leads TPUSA’s MAGA Halftime Show: Highlights
Kid Rock took center stage at the recent “All American” Halftime Show, presented by Turning Point USA (TPUSA). This event was promoted as a patriotic alternative to the official Super Bowl halftime performance by Bad Bunny.
Significant Performances at the MAGA Halftime Show
The concert featured a lineup including Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, and Gabby Barrett. These artists delivered a mix of country music infused with themes of Americana. The show began with a guitar-driven rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner” at 8 p.m. ET, setting a fervent tone for the evening.
Opening Acts and Highlights
- Brantley Gilbert: He kicked off his segment by declaring “this is real America” while wearing a “God Family Country” T-shirt.
- Lee Brice: Paid tribute to TPUSA co-founder Charlie Kirk, before performing “Country Nowadays,” a song addressing contemporary cultural issues.
- Gabby Barrett: Delivered strong performances of her hits “I Hope” and “The Good Ones.”
Kid Rock eventually took the stage for a brief two-song set. He started with “Bawitdaba,” largely relying on playback before transitioning to a cover of “Til You Can’t.” This final performance included a video tribute to Charlie Kirk, showcasing his earlier quotes and moments spent with family.
Context Behind the Show
TPUSA framed the event as a counter-narrative to the mainstream Super Bowl show, stating it had “no agenda other than to celebrate faith, family, and freedom.” Kid Rock compared the event to the biblical tale of David and Goliath, noting the monumental challenge of competing against a global pop phenomenon like Bad Bunny.
Viewership and Streaming Details
The TPUSA show peaked at nearly 5 million viewers, despite restrictions on livestreaming through traditional platforms. Initially announced in October, the event was a response to pushback against Bad Bunny’s historic Super Bowl performance, which marked the first Spanish-language act in the event’s history.
Bad Bunny’s Impact and Critique
Bad Bunny has emerged as one of the world’s most notable artists, boasting over 90 million Spotify listeners compared to Kid Rock’s 5.3 million. His selection aimed at furthering the NFL’s international reach drew ire from certain right-wing figures, including former President Donald Trump.
In contrast, Bad Bunny has openly criticized contemporary immigration policies under the Trump administration, expressing empathy for marginalized communities and emphasizing love over hate in his messages.
Conclusion
While the MAGA Halftime Show attracted significant viewership, its overall cultural impact compared to the Super Bowl remains questionable. Kid Rock’s assertion of competing against cultural giants underscores the complexities of today’s polarized entertainment landscape.
