NFL Thanksgiving Halftime Shows: Jack White, Post Malone, and Lil Jon Elevate Turkey Day
Thanksgiving football is a cherished tradition for millions, and in 2023, the NFL amplified the experience with a lineup of star-studded halftime performances featuring Jack White, Post Malone, and Lil Jon. Beyond the gridiron battles – the Packers’ 31-24 victory over the Lions, the Cowboys’ narrow 31-28 win against the Chiefs, and the Ravens’ divisional clash with the Bengals – these musical acts provided memorable moments for fans.
Jack White Rocks Detroit with Eminem Surprise
The Thanksgiving Day kickoff in Detroit featured a performance by local legend Jack White, a singer, songwriter, and producer known for his work with The White Stripes and hits like “Seven Nation Army.” White opened his set with “That’s How I’m Feeling” before delivering a major surprise: a guest appearance by fellow Detroit icon, Eminem. The rap superstar performed his classic track, “Till I Collapse,” sending the Ford Field crowd into a frenzy.
Notably, Eminem wasn’t just a performer; he also served as one of the executive producers of the show, alongside his longtime manager, Paul Rosenberg, and Jesse Collins Entertainment. The pair will continue to consult with the Lions on future halftime productions through 2027. Prior to the main event, Gospel musician CeCe Winans delivered a stirring rendition of the national anthem.
Post Malone Honors Texas Roots and a Fallen Cowboy
In Texas, lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan Post Malone took the stage during halftime of the Cowboys-Chiefs game. The “Sunflower” singer, known for his genre-bending music, embraced his country roots with performances of “Wrong Ones” and “I Had Some Help.” Post Malone, sporting Cowboys boots, declared the team “the greatest in the world,” energizing the Dallas crowd.
The performance held a poignant layer of meaning, as Malone wore a pin with the number “94” to honor Marshawn Kneeland, a Cowboys defensive end who tragically passed away earlier in the month. “We love you 94,” Malone stated after his performance, paying tribute to the fallen player. Post Malone’s accolades include 18 Grammy nominations and numerous awards across Billboard, American Music, and MTV Video Music platforms. He joins a prestigious list of past Cowboys Thanksgiving Day performers, including Reba McEntire, Destiny’s Child, and Carrie Underwood.
Lil Jon Brings the Energy to Baltimore
The nightcap in Baltimore saw rapper, producer, and DJ Lil Jon bring his signature high-energy style to halftime of the Ravens-Bengals matchup. Lil Jon performed hits like “Turn Down For What,” igniting the M&T Bank Stadium crowd. The game itself was a significant one, marking the return of Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow after a seven-week absence due to a turf toe injury, while the Ravens continued their impressive climb after a period of uncertainty with Lamar Jackson sidelined.
Before Lil Jon took the stage, Renée Elise Goldsberry, a Tony Award-winning star of “Hamilton,” delivered a powerful performance of the national anthem. Lil Jon’s own accolades include a Grammy win for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for “Yeah!” with Usher and Ludacris, alongside numerous nominations and awards from MTV and the American Music Awards.
