Coco Jones' Fashion Homage to Whitney Houston at 2026 Super Bowl
In a poignant tribute to the legendary Whitney Houston, singer Coco Jones delivered a powerful performance of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" ahead of the 2026 Super Bowl. The event, held at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, saw the Seattle Seahawks face off against the New England Patriots, but it was Jones' pregame act that captured significant attention for its deep cultural and historical resonance.
Mirroring an Iconic Super Bowl Moment
Jones arrived on stage wearing a meticulously crafted outfit that directly echoed the ensemble Houston famously wore during her 1991 Super Bowl performance of the U.S. National Anthem. Houston's look, featuring a white jacket with a red stripe, matching pants, and a white headband, has become an iconic moment in Super Bowl history. Jones' version included a cropped white jacket adorned with red, black, and green accents, symbolizing the colors of the Pan-African flag, paired with an asymmetric bubble skirt boasting a long train.
This sartorial choice was not merely aesthetic; it served as a deliberate nod to Houston's legacy, blending fashion with a message of unity and heritage. The outfit was designed by the renowned streetwear designer Karl Kani, adding a contemporary twist to the homage while maintaining the reverence for Houston's original look.
Pregame Performances and Vocal Surprises
The pregame segment also featured notable performances by other artists. Brandi Carlile sang "America the Beautiful," while Charlie Puth took on the U.S. National Anthem. Puth's involvement had previously sparked controversy, with some fans questioning his vocal capabilities compared to past performers like Houston. In response to criticism, Puth addressed concerns on social media in December, stating, "I'll never claim to be as good of a singer as Whitney Houston ever was. But I assure you we're putting a really special arrangement together – in D major."
His performance, accompanied by a choir and an orchestra, delivered a jazzy interpretation of the "Star Spangled Banner" that surprised and impressed many viewers. Social media reactions were overwhelmingly positive, with one user exclaiming, "Didn't know what to expect, but I loved how beautifully Charlie Puth sang the national anthem," and another praising, "Oh Charlie Puth I wasn't aware of your skills… this arrangement is everything."
Halftime Show Highlights and Historic Moments
Later in the event, the halftime show was headlined by Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny, who made history as the first male solo Latin artist to perform the Super Bowl halftime show. His set, performed entirely in Spanish, featured surprise appearances by high-profile guests including Cardi B, Lady Gaga, Ricky Martin, Pedro Pascal, and Jessica Alba. This groundbreaking performance underscored the growing diversity and global appeal of the Super Bowl's entertainment lineup.
Jones' tribute to Houston, through both her vocal delivery and fashion statement, highlighted the enduring influence of past icons on contemporary culture. By wearing an outfit that mirrored Houston's 1991 look, Jones not only honored a musical legend but also celebrated the rich tapestry of African American history and pride, making her performance a standout moment in the 2026 Super Bowl festivities.
