R&B star Coco Jones delivered a powerful performance of Lift Every Voice and Sing ahead of Super Bowl LX, captivating fans at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
A Historic Anthem
Known as the Black National Anthem, Lift Every Voice and Sing was originally written as a poem by NAACP leader James Weldon Johnson in 1900 and later set to music by his brother John Rosamond Johnson. Adopted by the NAACP in 1919, the song has become a symbol of resilience and unity. Jones, who rose to fame with her hit single ICU, was backed by an eight-member orchestra during the stirring pre-game performance. Her rendition set the tone for the evening, blending artistry with cultural significance.
Pre-Game Ceremony
Her performance came before Charlie Puth sang The Star-Spangled Banner and Brandi Carlile delivered America the Beautiful. Together, the three performances honored tradition while reflecting the Super Bowl’s evolving role as a cultural showcase.
NFL executive vice president Peter O’Reilly emphasized the importance of the ceremony, saying:
“The pre-game ceremony will honour the legacy of the game, while embracing where it’s headed next, reflecting the Super Bowl’s enduring position at the intersection of sports, culture and entertainment.”
A Rising Star’s Moment
Jones was tapped to perform the anthem back in November, marking another milestone in her fast-rising career. Her ability to balance vocal power with emotional depth drew praise across social media, with fans calling her performance “moving” and “unforgettable.”
The Bigger Picture
Super Bowl LX, featuring the Seattle Seahawks vs. New England Patriots, showcased not only football but also the intersection of sports, music, and culture. Jones’ performance highlighted the growing visibility of diverse voices on one of the world’s biggest stages. Her rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing was more than a pre-game moment — it was a reminder of the anthem’s enduring message: hope, unity, and resilience.
