63% of Republicans Oppose Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime Show; Sting Joins Spin-off Concert
Sting is set to perform at a Super Bowl spin-off concert, while a recent study indicates significant political divides regarding Bad Bunny’s upcoming halftime show. The Police frontman will headline an event at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco on February 6, 2024. This concert occurs just two days before the Super Bowl at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.
Sting’s Super Bowl Spin-Off Concert Details
The concert is part of the Super Bowl LX Studio 60 weekend, aimed at providing fans with unforgettable music entertainment. It was organized by On Location, with plans for additional events, including meet-and-greet opportunities with NFL stars.
Sting previously co-headlined the halftime show in 2003. At that time, he shared the stage with Shania Twain and No Doubt, performing hits like “Message In A Bottle.”
Bad Bunny’s Halftime Show and Political Response
Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Ocasio, has been confirmed as the main headliner for the Super Bowl halftime show. The announcement, made in late September, has generated mixed reactions across the political spectrum.
- 63% of Republicans disapprove of Bad Bunny’s performance.
- 74% of Democrats approve of the artist’s participation.
- Overall, 48% of surveyed individuals support his booking.
- 29% disapprove, while 24% chose not to express an opinion.
Quinnipiac University conducted the survey revealing these insights. The data pointed to notable variations among different demographics: 65% of Hispanic participants and 61% of Black participants favor Bad Bunny, while only 41% of white respondents do. The 18-34 age group showed a 64% approval rate, whereas older individuals expressed less enthusiasm.
Political Controversy Surrounding the Artist
This performance has sparked discussions within various political circles. Right-wing organization Turning Point USA announced plans for an ‘All American Halftime Show’ coinciding with the NFL event. Former President Donald Trump criticized the booking, calling it “crazy” and claimed he was unfamiliar with Bad Bunny.
In the backdrop of this controversy, a petition urging the NFL to replace Bad Bunny with country singer George Strait has gained over 96,000 signatures. Additionally, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem has echoed concerns about the concert.
NFL’s Commitment Amid Backlash
The NFL has defended its decision to feature Bad Bunny, with Commissioner Roger Goodell emphasizing that the choice was deliberate and well-considered. Jay-Z, the NFL’s music strategist, has expressed support for the rapper, describing him as “truly inspiring” while casting doubt on the authenticity of the backlash.
As anticipation builds for the Super Bowl, the juxtaposition of Sting’s traditional concert and Bad Bunny’s unconventional halftime performance reflects the evolving landscape of entertainment and cultural representation during one of America’s most-watched events.
