The Super Bowl LIX halftime show is already generating a significant counter-programming effort, spearheaded by Turning Point USA (TPUSA). While Bad Bunny is set to headline the NFL’s official performance in New Orleans next February, TPUSA is staging an alternative concert featuring Kid Rock, Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, and Gabby Barrett.
The move comes after Bad Bunny was announced as the halftime performer in October 2025, a decision that drew immediate backlash from conservative circles. TPUSA announced its “All-American Halftime Show” on October 9, 2025, framing it as a response to what they perceive as a divisive choice by the NFL. The TPUSA event is scheduled to air around 8 p.m. ET on Sunday, .
Kid Rock, a longtime supporter of Donald Trump, expressed confidence in the TPUSA event, stating, “We’re approaching this show like David and Goliath. Competing with the pro football machine and a global pop superstar is almost impossible … or is it?” The concert will be available to view on TPUSA’s social media channels, as well as conservative streaming platforms like Real America’s Voice and TBN.
The announcement of the TPUSA show has resurfaced scrutiny of Kid Rock’s past work, specifically his 1997 song “Cool, Daddy Cool.” The lyrics of the song, which appeared on the soundtrack for the animated film Osmosis Jones, contain language referencing a preference for underage girls, sparking renewed criticism as the event aligns with a conservative movement.
This controversy is further complicated by the involvement of Donald Trump, who is heavily supported by TPUSA. Recently released Department of Justice files related to Jeffrey Epstein reveal over 38,000 mentions of Trump’s name. The DOJ, under the Trump administration, had withheld nearly half of the 6 million files related to Epstein, despite a congressional mandate for full release. Trump previously dismissed the calls for release as a “hoax” intended to distract from his accomplishments.
The situation highlights a complex intersection of political and cultural tensions. Bad Bunny’s selection as the Super Bowl headliner drew criticism not only for his musical style and language – he frequently performs in Spanish – but also due to his previous comments regarding ICE concerns and political statements. This prompted a reaction from TPUSA, who positioned their alternative show as a celebration of American values.
Kid Rock recently hinted at a faith-based song as part of his performance at the TPUSA event. Speaking on “The Charlie Kirk Show,” he discussed his belief in Jesus and God, stating that evidence of their existence can be found in everyday life. His most recent album, “Bad Reputation,” released in , includes tracks with explicit lyrics, including the title track which references a lavish lifestyle and defiance of critics.
The TPUSA’s “All-American Halftime Show” represents a deliberate attempt to counter-program a major cultural event, appealing to a specific segment of the NFL’s fanbase who may feel alienated by the NFL’s choice of Bad Bunny. The event’s success will likely depend on its ability to attract viewers and generate engagement within conservative media ecosystems. The timing of the event, coinciding with the Super Bowl, underscores the ongoing culture war and the increasing polarization of entertainment and politics.
The lineup for the TPUSA show, beyond Kid Rock, includes country artists Brantley Gilbert, known for hits like “Bottoms Up,” Lee Brice, with songs like “Rumor,” and Gabby Barrett, who gained prominence with singles like “I Hope.” The selection of these artists reinforces the event’s focus on a distinctly American, and specifically conservative, musical identity.
