The 2024 Super Bowl.

Rumors, controversies, rivaling teams, and an undeniably spectacular half-time show.

After 13 years, Usher returned to the glorified domed stadium to give audiences the performance of a lifetime.

Alongside Usher, iconic artists Alicia Keys, Jermaine Dupri, H.E.R., will.i.am., Lil Jon, and Ludacris appeared in a nostalgic 15 minute set list including: “Caught Up,” “U Don’t Have To Call,” “Superstar,” “Love In This Club,” “If I Ain’t Got You,” “My Boo,” “Confessions Part II,” “Burn,” “U Got It Bad,” “OMG,” “Yeah!,”and “Turn Down For What/Get Low.”

These are titles beloved by both younger and older audiences alike.

The performance opened on Usher surrounded by dancers adorned in sequins, feathers, and an array of extravagant costumes. The opening snares of “Caught Up” begins, and the crowd goes rightfully wild. Striking acrobats fly across the field and accompany Usher in smooth Michael-Jackson-esque footwork.

Alicia Keys is featured in a grand red sequined bodysuit, playing a gorgeous grand piano in “My Boo.” As Usher iconically strips the layers of his sharp white outfit, H.E.R. takes the stage and is encircled by an astonishing band of rollerbladers who perform an intricately choreographed sequence of flips and tricks – leaving viewers speechless.

Various artists are brought out throughout the show, generating excitement from the crowd as the most popular songs prove timeless.

Some found the production to be confusing with its uncoordinated costume choices and seemingly frenzied formations. Audiences felt  the music was overdone, and speculated an unplanned, unprepared, performance by Alicia Keys. A small slip-up on her part at the beginning of “If I Ain’t Got You” and Usher’s flirtatious dance moves had fans raising eyebrows.

However, one cannot deny the show’s impressive aspects, riddled with talent and liveliness. Despite the controversy, the performance was an immersive experience of danceable music and remarkable choreography.

Usher and his band of Super Bowl performers curated the perfect set list, igniting a passion for music that never gets old. The halftime show was a spotless execution of impressive dance moves and impeccable vocals. One cannot disprove the classics.