Ever since Michael Jackson made television history in 1993 as the first high-profile Super Bowl halftime show headliner, the NFL has made a concerted effort to pair the biggest game of the year with some of the biggest names in popular music. Normally, the headliners bring out special guests from the past or present, attracting a broader audience to their performance (see the always entertaining Bruno Mars' team-up with the Red Hot Chili Peppers). The following 9 country acts would suit either the headliner or special guest role on a future broadcast.
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Jason Aldean
After what he witnessed in Las Vegas, Aldean not just carrying on with his career but taking it to a grand stage would be a huge statement for country music. Plus, he puts on as energetic a stage show as any currently relevant act they could find.
Garth Brooks
Mark Wilson/Getty Images
With the Super Bowl coming to Atlanta in 2019, Brooks could make up for a technical issue-riddled set from back when Mercedes-Benz Stadium opened its doors. Besides, few active performers bring his level of notoriety.
The Eagles
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWEBL6ipPCM
Although they're technically a rock band, you'd have Vince Gill on stage if this happens anytime soon. Besides, they're as good a nostalgia act pick as any among active classic rock bands.
Willie Nelson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cNGY-9m9R8
Willie is one of the great living legends of popular music, so he's really as ideal as anyone to lead the charge in a multi-act halftime show. The other acts could be most anyone, from the reformed Pistol Annies to Snoop Dogg.
Dolly Parton
Graham Denholm/Getty Images
As one of the most beloved singers, entrepreneurs and humanitarians of the past 50 years, who wouldn't react to a Dolly Parton appearance? While she maybe shouldn't headline the halftime show, her widespread influence could make her a good fit as a surprise guest for a wide range of country and pop singers.
Sturgill Simpson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWk0NKu7Eso
After witnessing Simpson as guest guitarist for Chris Stapleton on Saturday Night Live, it's fun to consider other ways he might pop up on television in a similar role. Imagine the singer behind a surprising and gorgeous Nirvana cover, shredding up there with the Foo Fighters.
Chris Stapleton
Kevin Winter/Getty Images
This might actually happen soon. With Stapleton on people's minds after the Grammys and his pal and collaborator Justin Timberlake headlining the 2018 halftime show, there's no time like the present for traditional country to reach its biggest stage in ages.
Shania Twain
Sure, she's played the show before in 2003. Considering Justin Timberlake can make a return appearance, why can't Twain? After all, as one of the best-selling artists of all time, few others could better serve the huge demand for nostalgia.
Carrie Underwood
Ethan Miller/Getty Images
She's the musical voice of professional football at this point, so why not? Maybe she could preview a new song about staying in on Sunday to watch gridiron action at a Super Bowl, with the song played every week the following season? This only works if NBC hosts the Super Bowl since her songs appear on their broadcasts.
