On February 9, 2025, Super Bowl LIX was going to be more than just an event at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans but a musical tribute to the culture and heritage of that city. Native Louisianan and seven-time Grammy Award winner Jon Batiste performed the national anthem with emotional depth and relevance to the local community and people throughout the United States.
A Hometown Tribute
Dressed in an all-black suit by Paul Smith, Batiste took center stage with a colorful piano adorned with a butterfly painting by his wife, Suleika Jaouad. This artistic choice was not merely aesthetic; the butterfly symbolized resilience and transformation, themes central to both Jaouad’s personal journey battling cancer and the broader spirit of New Orleans. Batiste’s performance was a heartfelt tribute to his roots, aiming to represent the best of American ideals during challenging times.
A Unique Musical Arrangement
Batiste’s rendition was a little different from any other traditional national anthem performance. He added to the piece that jazzy twist, incorporating some of New Orleans’ bounce and hip-hop into the mix. He sampled the Triggerman beat, also known as “Drag Rap” by The Showboys, which has been a favorite in the city for years. This approach not only highlighted the rich cultural fabric of the city but also breathed new life into the patriotic song.
Honoring Personal and Collective Histories
The performance was deeply personal for Batiste. He dedicated it to his late grandfather, a military veteran, reflecting on the significance of patriotic songs during tumultuous times in the United States. Batiste emphasized the importance of symbols and songs that represent the nation’s ideals, especially when those ideals are under scrutiny. His aim was to capture the diverse stories and melodies that, while seemingly disparate, come together to form the American identity.
A Celebration of New Orleans’ Musical Legacy
The NFL was also moved to feature Batiste under a general thrust to fete Louisiana’s local music scene. According to the head of music for the league, Seth Dudowsky, the aim was to celebrate the rich musical legacy of New Orleans and the entire state. The pregame lineup also included performances by Trombone Shorty and Lauren Daigle, who delivered “America the Beautiful,” and Ledisi, who sang “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” These performances highlighted the state’s vibrant musical culture and set the tone for the evening.
A Prelude to New Musical Endeavors
Batiste’s Super Bowl appearance also served as a platform to introduce his new project, “My United State,” which includes tracks like “Star-Spangled Blues” and “Notes from My Future Self.” These songs blend traditional melodies with contemporary influences, reflecting Batiste’s artistic evolution and his desire to connect with audiences on multiple levels. He has stated that after the Super Bowl, he will come out with some visuals of those new songs and then head out on tour performing some new music, plus re-imaginings.
Community Outreach and Aftermath
Other than the Super Bowl, Batiste has demonstrated his dedication to his hometown with the “Love Riot Festival,” which was staged in New Orleans’ 9th Ward. The festival took over the George Washington Carver High School grounds and became a celebration of music, hope, and action. In collaboration with Sing for Hope, Batiste led local artists in creating hand-painted pianos, which were placed throughout the 9th Ward as an open invitation. These instruments will find permanent homes, ensuring that the music continues to inspire long after the event.
A Memorable Super Bowl Moment
Batiste was one highlight of Super Bowl LIX, where the Eagles laid waste to the Kansas City Chiefs with a final score of 40-22. The halftime show was attended by Kendric Lamar, who made a guest appearance with SZA all within one night. However, it was Batiste’s soul-wrenching rendition of the national anthem that set the night’s tone and gripped every one of those who saw it.
In conclusion, Jon Batiste’s performance at Super Bowl LIX, which transcended the ordinary to become a celebration of everything New Orleans stood for-opposition to being knocked down, culture, esprit d’corps-was delivered with his clever freakish arrangement and was further personalized on a much deeper level as he honored his roots and carried a message of togetherness and hope, which was the quintessential manifestation of the American spirit.
