> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.scenemag.co.uk/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# Brandi Carlile's 'America the Beautiful' at Super Bowl LX performed to represent queer community
- URL: https://www.scenemag.co.uk/brandi-carlile-represents-queer-community-at-super-bowl-lx/
- Published: 2026-02-09T11:04:40.000Z
- Updated: 2026-02-09T11:45:23.000Z
- Author: Graham Robson
- Tags: North America

**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.