When it comes to the Super Bowl, the national anthem is always one of the most powerful and unforgettable moments – a tradition that’s etched into our memories year after year.

For Super Bowl LIX, the legendary jazz maestro from New Orleans, Jon Batiste, was entrusted with this iconic honor.

And the reactions? They came fast and strong…

Too far from tradition?
Super Bowl LIX saw an unforgettable National Anthem performance by Jon Batiste, the 38-year-old jazz star from New Orleans. As fans flooded social media with their reactions, one thing became clear: opinions were divided. Some were moved to tears, while others felt it missed the mark.

Batiste, seated at a colorful piano, brought a distinct New Orleans jazz flavor to the anthem — a bold and soulful twist on a familiar song. His passionate performance left some of the NFL players in the stands visibly emotional.

But for fans, especially those on X (formerly Twitter), it sparked heated debate: Was it a masterpiece, or did it stray too far from tradition?

The National Anthem rendition at Super Bowl LIX right now is terrible.

They should’ve just played this one by Whitney Houston.

There will never be one greater.pic.twitter.com/72IBMJ5tmm

— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) February 9, 2025

What a soulful rendition of the “Star-Spangled Banner” by Jon Batiste! My favorite version since Whitney Houston’s💕💕💕

— Keri (@NotSure010101) February 9, 2025

Jon Batiste did really well with the National Anthem.

I'm generally a purist when it comes to singing it. But his accents were nicely done.

— Alyse (@mrs_alyse) February 10, 2025

The Jon Batiste anthem should go down with Hendrix and whoever else you want as the most legendary of all time

His positive aura is overwhelming, performs with an undeniable joy that can’t help but make you feel

— T-Bob Hebert (@TBob53) February 10, 2025

Looking back at Super Bowl performances, a few renditions are often hailed as the gold standard. Whitney Houston’s 1991 performance still holds a special place in many hearts. Lady Gaga’s powerful 2016 rendition also stands out, as does Chris Stapleton’s tear-jerking performance last year.

Even Travis Kelce, the three-time Super Bowl champ, recently said that Stapleton’s rendition remains unmatched in his eyes.

But with Batiste’s take on the anthem, it feels like a new era. While some fans celebrated his unique twist on the anthem, others preferred the traditional, straightforward approach. And for every fan who felt moved, there were others who questioned if jazz was the right way to go for such a high-stakes moment.

The Brooches Jon Batiste wore
Batiste also made a bold fashion statement with not one, but two Tiffany Bird on a Rock brooches. These stunning pieces, a symbol of luxury and elegance, are among the most recognizable in the jewelry world, thanks to their iconic design by Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co. in 1965.

The brooches themselves are a masterpiece — featuring a bird set with a white diamond and perched on a cabochon rock, the perfect blend of sophistication and sparkle.

While the original design was created for Bunny Mellon, a close friend of Schlumberger, the pieces have since been worn by A-listers like Lady Gaga, Odell Beckham, and Jeremy Allen White, cementing their status as a timeless jewelry icon.

Batiste’s choice of brooches didn’t just add to his stylish ensemble; it made a statement. The combination of the citrine and diamond elements made for a striking contrast that perfectly matched his performance at the Super Bowl. And with Tiffany & Co.’s longstanding association with the NFL—designing the Vince Lombardi trophy since 1966 — it’s clear that Batiste’s jewelry choice was more than just a nod to luxury. It was a part of a legacy, according to Town and country magazine.

While we may never know for sure whether the jewelry had any connection to the game (could he have been subtly rooting for the Chiefs or Eagles?), it was undeniably a bold move that had everyone talking. A fashion moment to remember—and certainly one for the jewelry books.

So, what’s your take? Did Jon Batiste deliver a performance for the ages, or does it fall short of the unforgettable renditions we’ve come to expect at the Super Bowl? Watch him sing below and share your thoughts below and join the debate!