Nas Reveals Where He Stands On Super Bowl Halftime Show Performances

While many artists dream of headlining the Super Bowl Halftime Show, Hip-Hop icon Nas recently revealed that he has no interest in joining that elite list—despite being more than qualified.

In a conversation with Complex, the Queensbridge native was asked about potentially performing at the NFL’s biggest stage, and his response was refreshingly candid.

“Nah, I don’t want to do … I can’t say I don’t want to do the Super Bowl, but I don’t,” Nas admitted. “Why would I do that? Leave it to the professionals. Leave it to the pros. I’m a pro at what I do.”

Nas attends the “X: The Life and Times Of Malcolm X” opening night at The Metropolitan Opera on November 03, 2023 in New York City.

John Nacion/Getty Images

Known for his lyrical depth and cultural impact, Nas explained that he’s more comfortable in the role of an observer when it comes to the Super Bowl spectacle.

He offered praise for recent performers, acknowledging the quality of the show in recent years. “I want to watch dope halftime shows and that’s what has been happening lately so salute to all of them,” he said, referencing standout Super Bowl sets from Usher, Dr. Dre, Rihanna, and Kendrick Lamar.

Although Nas may not see himself on that stage, many would argue that few are more deserving. With a career spanning three decades, 20 studio albums, and a legacy that includes classics like Illmatic, the 52-year-old has remained a force in Hip-Hop and beyond.

Nas

Rapper Nas attends Pandora Sounds Like You NYC featuring Nas, Young M.A, Dave East and Biz Markie DJ Set at Brooklyn Steel on July 19, 2017 in New York City.

Dave Kotinsky/Getty Images for Pandora

His humility aside, the conversation comes at a time when the NFL continues to embrace more diverse talent.

Bad Bunny is set to headline the Super Bowl LX Halftime Show on Feb. 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California—marking a historic moment as the first solo act primarily performing in Spanish to take center stage.

Nas may be sitting this one out, but his presence in Hip-Hop culture remains as powerful as ever.