Brandi Carlile's 'America the Beautiful' at Super Bowl LX performed to represent queer community

Brandi Carlile delivered a powerful and emotionally charged rendition of America the Beautiful at Super Bowl LX, transforming the pre‑game tradition into a moment of visibility and resonance for queer audiences across the United States. Appearing at Levi’s Stadium ahead of the clash between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots, the Grammy‑winning singer used one of the world’s largest stages to highlight both her identity and her advocacy. 

Speaking to Variety prior to the event, Carlile emphasised the moral responsibility she feels as a queer woman, noting that performing the patriotic standard during such a politically fraught period was not simply a musical duty but an act of representation. “The throughline to being queer and being a representative of a marginalised community … it’s something you don’t say no to,” she said.

Her performance also paid homage to Katharine Lee Bates, the lyricist of America the Beautiful, whom many historians believe was likely gay. Carlile highlighted Bates’s perseverance as a woman working in a restrictive era, suggesting that the song’s aspirational tone echoes the queer community’s ongoing struggle for recognition and hope. 

Carlile’s appearance formed part of a notably varied pre‑game entertainment schedule. Coco Jones delivered a powerful rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing, while Green Day opened proceedings with a high‑energy mini‑concert, continuing their longstanding tradition of politically charged performances. Charlie Puth followed with The Star‑Spangled Banner, rounding out a programme that blended pop, rock and soul influences.

The night’s entertainment reached an even higher pitch with a surprise appearance from Lady Gaga, who joined halftime headliner Bad Bunny on stage for a re‑imagined rendition of Die With a Smile. Gaga, dressed in a light blue gown adorned with a red hibiscus flower, delivered one of the show’s standout vocal moments before sharing a brief dance sequence with the Puerto Rican superstar. Her cameo formed part of a star‑studded halftime set that also featured Ricky Martin and a host of celebrity guests, underscoring the event’s emphasis on unity and cultural celebration.