Maroon 5 was officially announced Sunday as the headline act at this year’s Super Bowl halftime show in Atlanta, with guests Travis Scott and hometown rapper Big Boi of Outkast.
Reports that Maroon 5 would be performing came last September and frontman Adam Levine did little to deny them. During an appearance on Ellen, he said: “Whoever is lucky enough to get that gig probably is gonna crush it. If it were me, I'd be excited, I'd be nervous. If I were doing it, which I can't confirm or deny I am, I would be excited.”
Last month, Variety said the controversy over the NFL’s policy on players’ right to protest was making it challenging for Maroon 5 to find special guests. Cardi B and Rihanna were among the artists who turned down offers, according to reports.
In a statement Sunday, Scott explained his decision to participate. “I back anyone who takes a stand for what they believe in," he said. "I know being an artist that it’s in my power to inspire. So before confirming the Super Bowl Halftime performance, I made sure to partner with the NFL on this important donation.”
Scott and the NFL reportedly made a joint $500,000 U.S. donation to Dream Corps, a social justice organization. “I am proud to support Dream Corps and the work they do that will hopefully inspire and promote change,” the rap star said.
Jay-Z was said to have tried to discourage Scott from taking part in the halftime show and Meek Mill publicly questioned why he was even considering it, tweeting: “For what???? He don’t need that he on fire already! Stay strong in this sh**!”
The Super Bowl takes place Feb. 3 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.