Madonna's Super Bowl appearance marks another return to pop

By: Lauren Moraski
Topics: Music

Madonna attends the "Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty" Costume Institute Gala at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 2, 2011, in New York.

(Credit: Getty Images)

(CBS) Madonna's Super Bowl halftime appearance marks a true return to pop music for the NFL. In February 2011, we saw the Black Eyed Peas, Usher and guitarist Slash perform - the first time a non-rock act made the bill for football's biggest night since the 2004 Janet Jackson-Justin Timberlake "nipplegate" controversy.

Since then, Super Bowl organizers have played it safe by booking rock acts that lean on the aging, classic rock side of the genre, including Paul McCartney (2005), The Rolling Stones (2006), Prince (2007), Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers (2008), Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band (2009) and The Who (2009).

Pictures: Madonna on tour
Pictures: Madonna's Confessions

Now Madonna, who was rumored as the Super Bowl hafltime pick for months, will continue the pop music tradition, on the heels of the Black Eyed Peas' 2011 performance.

She's also only the second major female artist (besides Fergie from the Black Eyed Peas) to grace the Super Bowl halftime stage in eight years. And Madonna is somewhat of a risque choice, as she's been known to drum up controversy of her own. Her 1989 "Like a Prayer" music video, with its burning crosses, drew received criticism from Catholics. She also stirred up debate in 2006 when she staged a crucifixion during her Confessions tour.

The Super Bowl performance comes at a good time for the Material Girl, who's poised to have a busy 2012. The 53-year-old star's romantic drama, "W.E.," hits theaters just two days before her Super Bowl appearance. There are also rumors about a single dropping around the time of the Super Bowl. The track will appear on Madonna's as-yet-untitled 12th studio album due out in 2012.

Singer M.I.A. and Nicki Minaj recently teamed up with Madonna on a new track, reportedly titled "Give Me All You Love," according to reports.

Madonna's Super Bowl XLVI halftime show will take place on Feb. 5 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Her set is expected to feature a Cirque du Soleil theme.

Tell us: What do you think of Madonna as a Super Bowl halftime performer?

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by butnotme December 5, 2011 4:05 PM EST: Madonna is one hell of a performer. Went to see her in London and Wow! Hot momma! Glad they got someone to live up the half time show!! Can't wait to see it now.; Reply to this comment


by Duranteca December 5, 2011 12:55 PM EST: Madonna usually looks like a mean old plain-looking skank.

Looking at that, well it's not a fun thing to behold while enjoying a Super Bowl party.; Reply to this comment


by dragon1warrior December 5, 2011 10:57 AM EST: What a terrible choice. I'll be sure to miss it.; Reply to this comment


by klondikegold December 5, 2011 10:53 AM EST: For the last four years the NFL has chosen old acts. Madonna is like,one hundred and fifty years old. I will not be watching that dried up no talent singer.; Reply to this comment