After the massive backlash following the Bad Bunny halftime announcement, Luke Combs is throwing his hat in the ring. He isn’t just asking for himself; he’s calling out the “lack of country” on the world’s biggest stage.
During a sit-down on The Zach Sang Show the superstar didn’t hold back about the Super Bowl drought. It has been over 20 years since a country act headlined the big game and Combs says the wait is over.
He told Sang that he would do it “right now” if he got the call.
Watch the moment Luke Combs officially challenges the NFL status quo below:
Luke Combs Reacts to Super Bowl Halftime Show Idea
This interview is the definitive look at the “country zeitgeist” of 2026. Combs explains how the genre is no longer a niche market for the South. He points to the staggering streaming numbers of artists like Morgan Wallen and Megan Moroney as proof.
Fun Fact: The last time a country artist headlined the Super Bowl was Shania Twain in 2003. Since then country stars have only been invited to sing the National Anthem.
The timing of this bold move couldn’t be more perfect for his career. Combs is currently gearing up to release his massive 22-track album titled The Way I Am on March 20.
While the interview captures his words his stage presence proves he can handle the pressure.
See exactly why Luke is stadium-ready in this legendary Opry performance:
Opry 100: A Live Celebration Red Carpet With All Your Favorite Country Stars
This footage from the Opry 100 Celebration shows his raw vocal power at the Ryman Auditorium. It serves as a masterclass in performance alongside icons like Reba McEntire.
The contrast between the intimate Opry stage and a massive stadium is exactly what makes Combs a threat to the pop status quo. He brings a “neo-traditional” grit that millions of Americans are currently craving.
If the NFL wants to capture the heart of the country they need to look at these numbers. The data shows that country music is dominating the global charts like never before.
Make sure to follow Luke Combs on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for more updates on his 2026 tour!