Luke Combs Has Big Super Bowl Dreams (Photo by Joshua Applegate/WireImage)
Luke Combs Says The Super Bowl Needs A Country Performance
Luke Combs has his heart set on the Super Bowl!
In a recent interview, the superstar said it’s “past time” for a country artist to headline the iconic performance slot, adding that he would accept the opportunity immediately if asked.
The Super Bowl halftime show, which drew 128.2 million viewers in 2026, has largely overlooked country music for decades. One of the last major country-led performances came from Shania Twain in 2003, leaving a gap of more than 20 years without a country headliner.
This year’s show was met with widespread controvery ahead of the big game after Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny was announced as the headlining act. Multiple petitions were even launched to get country music legend George Strait to perform.
Luke Combs Said He Would Be Ready To Perform At The Big Game
Combs argued that the absence from the massive event no longer reflects the current music landscape. Country music has surged in popularity, dominating streaming platforms and selling out stadium tours across the United States. According to Combs, the genre now has both the audience and the star power to carry a halftime show.
“I think country is in the zeitgeist now, like it’s not a niche genre anymore. Even ten years ago I would say it was. It’s not anymore. I think it’s undeniable… how many of the top 100 streaming songs in all of music are country?,” Combs said. “A very high percentage, I think, now. Way more so than in history. So I think it’s undeniable, I think it’s time, whoever’s having those conversation. I don’t know, it’s above my pay grade.“
Luke Combs (Photo Credit: Scott Dudelson / Getty Images for Stagecoach)
While expressing personal interest, Combs framed the issue as bigger than himself. He also pointed to other major country artists who could take on the role, including Garth Brooks and Morgan Wallen.
“I don’t really know why that is. Listen, again, it’s not up to me, I think the people would love it. And that’s no pitch for me, I think it’s just a pitch for country music in general,” Combs continued. “Whether it’s Garth or Morgan Wallen or whoever it is. Somebody deserves to be up there doing the thing.”
The Super Bowl halftime show remains one of the most-watched musical performances in the world, often shaping cultural conversations and boosting artists’ careers. For now, the decision remains in the hands of league organizers, but Combs said he is willing and able if they make that call.
“Super Bowl, come on, dude. We’re all waiting… make the call. One of us is ready.”
