S-B Music: Bruno, R-H-CP Rock Half-Time

NFL Photo

NFL Photo

Queen Latifah kicked off Super Bowl 48 by performing "America the Beautiful" accompanied by the New Jersey Youth Chorus. The 43-year-old may be known more for her gig hosting a successful talk show these days, but she reminded everyone of her musical roots in her opening notes.

When opera singer Renee Fleming was first announced as the artist chosen to perform the National Anthem, many people questioned the decision because she didn't have name recognition. However, the 54-year-old 2013 Grammy winner brought a touch of sophistication and elegance to the event.

After last year's Destiny's Child reunion, hopes were high long before Bruno Mars ever took the stage to do his thing for this year's show. A chorus of children introduced the crooner while he got the crowd going with a drum solo that led into a medley of his hits, including "Locked Out of Heaven" and "Treasure." He followed them up with one of his lesser-known tracks, "Runaway Baby," during which he busted out into some James Brown footwork.


The Grammy winner transitioned into the Red Hot Chilli Peppers' hit "Give It Away Now," which became a duet when Anthony Kiedis joined him on stage and his bandmates provided the instrumentals. Things took an emotional turn when the show cut to military personnel dedicating Bruno's "Just the Way You Are" to their loved ones at home. The heartfelt performance rounded out the set list as fireworks erupted over MetLife Stadium.