Before it became the pop culture behemoth we know and love, the Super Bowl halftime show was really just a showcase for marching bands, local performers and cover groups. Indeed, it wasn't until 1993, when Michael Jackson was asked to show up and show out, that the gig earned the cache it still carries today.

See photos of every Super Bowl Halftime Show performance from 1993 to 2024, including Prince, Paul McCartney, Beyoncé, Michael Jackson, Snoop Dogg and more.

Some consider the Super Bowl halftime show one of the world’s biggest stages for popular acts. We’re taking a look back at some of the most memorable performances.