Super Bowl to Feature Notable Left-Wing Band

The NFL has revealed plans to include more politically left-leaning musical acts in its upcoming Super Bowl event. One of the bands confirmed for the opening ceremony is Green Day.

Billie Joe Armstrong, the band’s frontman, has a history of criticizing Donald Trump, as well as MAGA supporters and Republicans. He’s called them “fascists” and even altered lyrics in some of his songs to voice his opposition to the political right and Israel.

This announcement came on a Sunday, and according to the Associated Press, the event will coincide with the 60th anniversary celebrations of the Super Bowl MVP title. Tim Tubito, the league’s senior director of events and game presentation, expressed excitement about the choice, stating that recognizing NFL legends through the lens of a local band is a potent way to begin Super Bowl LX. He also mentioned the collaboration with NBC Sports for the opening ceremony, aiming to create a sense of shared celebration among fans worldwide.

However, Armstrong’s outspoken criticisms of Trump and his supporters—many of whom are likely NFL fans—have raised eyebrows.

For instance, earlier this year at Coachella, Armstrong modified the lyrics to “Jesus of Suburbia” to make a statement supporting Palestinians and Hamas. In the lead-up to the 2016 presidential election, he had equated Trump with Adolf Hitler, and in 2018, he publicly advocated for Trump’s impeachment in response to certain tweets regarding Kim Jong Un.

During a performance at the American Music Awards in November 2016, the band famously shouted, “No Trump, no KKK, no fascist USA!” which certainly stirred controversy.

Additionally, last year, Armstrong made headlines when he declared, “Fuck America,” following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. This led to several radio stations taking his music off their playlists.

The inclusion of Green Day adds to the lineup of controversial musical acts for this year’s Super Bowl. The league has also announced that Bad Bunny, a Puerto Rican rapper known for his strong anti-Trump stance, will headline the halftime show.

Alongside Bad Bunny and Green Day, performances will also include Charlie Puth singing the national anthem, Brandi Carlile performing “America the Beautiful,” and Coco Jones delivering a rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”