Madonna’s Unforgettable Halftime Show
We thought we knew what we were in for, when Madonna was announced as the 2012 Super Bowl halftime performer. To some extent, our expectations were spot on, but there were several unexpected surprises along the way.
The most obvious surprise was MIA’s impromptu flip of the bird and muffled expletive during one song. NBC’s five-second-delay–which is supposed to be a buffer for the unexpected–was not enough time to censor the incident, and it was broadcast to approximately 111 million TV viewers. Of course, this is all anyone can talk about and the Internet is blowing up with tweets, posts, and opinions. NBC issued an apology immediately after the Super Bowl ended, but this was not enough to undo what had already been done for some people.
Madonna’s halftime show also exhibited some great talent in the form of pop sensation Nicki Minaj and party rockers LMFAO; to name a few. Did you see that guy with the windmill leg?! We are not sure whether to be impressed or disturbed. World record holding slackliner and highliner Andy Lewis also made a debut; performing a series of gymnastics and stunts on a slackline, while wearing a toga! We don’t know how Madonna found him, but we’re glad she did. We loved it!
Madonna’s Roman/Grecian themed performance was cutting-edge, but not over the top. The costumes were actually pretty conservative compared to what we’ve seen from other music artists (*cough*Lady*Gaga*cough). We also think Madonna pulled off her sexy black ensemble better than anyone else in the show. We find it hard to believe that the singer is 53 years old after seeing her bounce, cartwheel, drop it, and prance all over the stage.
Another controversy surrounding the performance was whether or not Madonna lip synced most of the songs. This and all other controversies aside, we thought Madonna put on a great show. It was definitely better than some Super Bowl halftime shows we’ve seen in the recent past. Madonna exited the stage in theatrical fashion leaving us all with her parting message, “World Peace!”
Edited: February 7th, 2012
We weren’t at all surprised to see names like VV Brown, Rufus Wainwright, Skylar Grey, and Ingrid Michaelson, These artists having been tearing it up in the past and we expect to see them only get bigger and better.
Ever since she teamed up with artists like Eminem, Rihanna, and Christina Aguilera; Skylar Grey has been making waves in the music industry and in her career. She released an album this month called “Invinsible”, which could be the next big thing to launch her career and bring home the platinum.
Even after fifteen years, Damien Jurado still has a lot to offer the music world. The acclaimed artist will be releasing his 10th album, “Maraqopa” sometime in February. The album promises to have more variety than just the Indie Folk that Jurado is typically known for performing. With the help of producer and instrumentalist, Richard Swift, Jurado promises to show off styles of dub and psych-rock. 
Yes, we’re finally talking about the woman who’s been rumored to surpass The King Elvis Presley in both popularity and controversy. However, how do topless music videos, sacrilege, and blue wigs add up to Elvis’ seemingly mild hip action? Time will tell us. Rather than stirring the pot a bit and then stepping out of the kitchen like so many modern vocalists, Lady Gaga has stayed in the spotlight and on the radio waves solidly since 2008. Even timeless music legends like Madonna are admitting that this racey 20-something is here to stay. 
In a recent interview with Q Magazine, Adele opened up about her former relationship, the breakup that inspired 21. She also discussed what it was like to win two grammies, embrace fame, retain her privacy, and try and maintain normal relationships with friends and family. 
Another act that stole the show was Mumford & Sons, which is an English folk rock band I want everyone to take a look at. What I like about Mumford & Sons is their unique sound. There is something about the band that makes you actually enjoy the banjo. I’ll be the first to admit I am late on the band wagon for Mumford & Sons, but with them I feel like it is better late than never. I’m sure some of you have been listening to them far longer than me.