The Super Bowl Soulful Celebration, a one-hour music special, in partnership with the NFL, tapes Wednesday, Feb. 7, at Pearl Theater, Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, in advance of Super Bowl LVIII, airing Sunday, Feb. 11 on CBS. Tickets on Sale Now at Tickmaster.com.
The Super Bowl Soulful Celebration will celebrate 25 wonderful years as the only event of its kind during Super Week when it tapes its annual special at the Pearl Theater inside the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas. Through the years, the celebration has brought together athletes and gospel artists during the biggest week in sports. Many times, it is the kickoff to Super Week and gives concertgoers a chance to see marquee athletes’ faith in action!
CBS today announced performances and player honorees for THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25thANNIVERSARY, (previously known as the “Super Bowl Gospel Celebration”), airing Saturday, Feb. 10 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, and streaming on Paramount+ (live for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on demand on Pluto TV and CBS.com the day after the special airs)*. Cedric the Entertainer and Tichina Arnold of CBS’ THE NEIGHBORHOOD will host.
The Super Bowl Soulful Celebration is marking its 25th anniversary this year — and our very own @NateBurleson will receive the Lifetime of Inspiration Award.
Also announced today on CBS MORNINGS, co-host, Nate Burleson, will be honored on the special with the “Lifetime of Inspiration” Award. The honor will celebrate Burleson’s substantial impact on the NFL and people of faith, as well as recognize his contributions to media, sports, philanthropy, and business. This accolade has been bestowed six times in the event’s 25-year history, recognizing truly exceptional individuals in football who embody excellence, resilience, gratitude, and inspiration, both on and off the field. Previous recipients include Tony Dungy (2009), Ray Lewis (2013), Tim Brown (2015), Troy Vincent (2017), and Deion Sanders (2022).
Additionally, the special will feature an electrifying performance lineup led by Earth, Wind & Fire, Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary and Robin Thicke. Also, the telecast will feature a performance by The Players Choir. This all-player ensemble has become a staple of Super Bowl weekend festivities, captivating audiences with its powerful harmonies and unique blend of NFL talent for 16 seasons. Additional performers will be announced at a later date.
The show will also pay tribute to outstanding NFL players for their remarkable contributions on and off the field. The following players will be honored for their exceptional achievements:
Damar Hamlin, Buffalo Bills (S), will be presented with the New Beginnings Award, recognizing his dedication, resilience, and inspiring journey in overcoming obstacles to achieve success.
Markquese Bell, Dallas Cowboys (LB), will be honored as the HBCU Player of the Year, celebrating his remarkable achievements and impact while representing Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
For a quarter-century THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25thANNIVERSARY has captured the hearts of millions through the shared love of music, faith and the exhilaration of football. Bridging cultures and igniting inspiration, the Super Bowl LVIII sanctioned special brings together NFL players with award-winning artists and acclaimed musicians from diverse genres onto a single stage. The result is an unforgettable evening that transcends boundaries and remains the sole multicultural and inspirational program sanctioned by the NFL during the electrifying Super Bowl week.
Tickets for THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY are on sale now and available to the public via Ticketmaster.com. Additionally, to mark this special occasion, exclusive commemorative 25th Anniversary limited-edition merchandise is available via the event’s official website SuperBowlSoulful.com, or on-site at the special taping in Las Vegas, allowing attendees to take home a piece of this historic celebration.
THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25thANNIVERSARY is executive produced by Melanie Few, with Valarie Benning Thompson serving as producer. Veteran television creative Leon Knoles serves as Director, with Grammy-nominated artist Adam Blackstone serving as music director.
*Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers will have access to stream live via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate on the service. Paramount+ Essential subscribers will not have the option to stream live but will have access to on-demand on Pluto TV and CBS.com the day after the special airs.
For nearly sixteen years, the all-NFL Players Choir has delivered one of the most highly-anticipated musical performances during the biggest weekend in sports, the annual Super Bowl Weekend. Making its debut in 2008 in Phoenix, Arizona during the 9th Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (now Super Bowl Soulful Celebration), the choir launched with more than 40 active and former NFL players under the direction of Grammy Award-Winning artist, Donnie McClurkin.
Developed by Super Bowl Soulful Celebration Founder and Executive Producer Melanie Few with a core group of NFL players who wanted to share their faith through song, last season the group delivered two fan-favorite performances on the highest-rated television variety competition show “America’s Got Talent,” (AGT) – the classic Bill Withers anthem “Lean on Me” and Justin Timberlake’s chart-topping “Can’t Stop The Feeling.”
To stay up to date with the latest Players Choir news and activities, please follow them on social @PlayersChoir.
EARTH, WIND & FIRE, KIRK FRANKLIN, ROBIN THICKE, MARY MARY, AND THE NFL PLAYERS CHOIR TO PERFORM AT SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY AIRING ON CBS
Get ready for a soul-stirring musical journey just in time for the holidays as the “Best of Super Bowl Gospel Celebration,” Presented by P&G which premiered in national syndication on November 18, airing through January 28. Hosted by former NFL wide receiver and co-host of CBS Mornings, Nate Burleson, the “Best of Super Bowl Gospel Celebration” pays tribute to the iconic moments that have shaped this community-event-turned-television-special over the past twenty-four years. It’s a one-hour celebration of inspiration, a showcase of extraordinary talent, and a testament to the power of unity. Read more about the special, HERE.
All images courtesy of Super Bowl Soulful Celebration/Front Page Firm
Unforgettable Celebration of Faith, Music, and Football Features Iconic Throwback Performances and Collaborations by Gladys Knight, Snoop Dogg, Fantasia, Yolanda Adams, Kirk Franklin, The Clark Sisters, Doug E. Fresh, Donnie McClurkin & More
Get ready for a soul-stirring musical journey just in time for the holidays as the “Best of Super Bowl Gospel Celebration,” Presented by P&G, premieres in national syndication on November 18, airing through January 28. Hosted by former NFL wide receiver and co-host of CBS Mornings, Nate Burleson, the “Best of Super Bowl Gospel Celebration” pays tribute to the iconic moments that have shaped this community-event-turned-television-special over the past twenty-four years. It’s a one-hour celebration of faith, a showcase of extraordinary talent, and a testament to the power of unity.
For nearly a quarter of a century, the Super Bowl Gospel Celebration, now rebranded as the “Super Bowl Soulful Celebration,” has been a beacon of inspiration during the biggest week in sports. Founded and Executive Produced by Atlanta-based marketing executive Melanie Few, this event seamlessly intertwines the worlds of faith, music, and football, becoming a cherished tradition during the lead-up to the Super Bowl. It stands as the only NFL-sanctioned multicultural program during Super Bowl week, attracting the world’s attention with its extraordinary performances and uplifting messages.
“As a former NFL player, I’ve witnessed firsthand how coming together and finding inspiration impacts not just the game but life beyond the field. Now, stepping into the role of hosting the ‘Best of Super Bowl Gospel Celebration,’ we’re diving back into twenty-five years of heartwarming memories. This amazing look back highlights performances we’ll never forget, incredible collaborations, and players sharing stories of hope and strength. It really shows how music, faith, and football are interconnected, making this event something truly special.”
Nate Burleson, celebrated Emmy Award-winning studio analyst for the CBS Sports NFL pregame show, “The NFL Today.
“Reflecting on this remarkable journey toward our Silver Anniversary, I couldn’t be prouder to present the ‘Best Of’ Super Bowl Gospel Celebration. Twenty-four years ago we brought together champions, uniting their powerful testimonies with musical performances that elevated our spirits beyond measure,” recalled Few, also the visionary founder of the all-NFL Players Choir. “The ‘Best Of’ special is a testament to the incredible evolution and legacy of this event, showcasing the pinnacle of talent and heartfelt moments that have graced our stage.”
In this special “Best Of” TV event, extraordinary throwback performances rekindle the magic created by renowned artists from the past. Soulful renditions by icons like Gladys Knight, Kirk Franklin, and Fantasia, as well as the spirited collaboration of Snoop Dogg, the late Rance Allen, and The Clark Sisters, take the audience on a trip down memory lane. Performances from Doug E. Fresh, Donnie McClurkin, Kierra Sheard Kelly, The Player’s Choir featuring Jekalyn Carr and Ben Tankard get viewers lifted, while the powerful voices of Yolanda Adams and Le’Andria Johnson create an emotional crescendo. Lecrae and Koryn Hawthorn captivate the audience with their powerful blend of rap and soul, while a spectacular reunion performance by the legendary gospel supergroup Commissioned, featuring Marvin Sapp and Fred Hammond promises an unforgettable highlight of the evening. Each performance becomes a stepping stone on a journey through musical excellence and spiritual upliftment.
Scenes from Super Bowl Soulful Celebration in Mesa, Arizona (2023)
Reaching a broad and diverse audience, the show will be syndicated to households across the nation, including but not limited to Chicago (NBC), Washington, DC (CW), Detroit (CBS), Tampa (CW), Orlando (ABC), Raleigh, NC (CBS), Baltimore, MD (CBS), Memphis (FOX), Seattle (CW) and many more. Viewers may check local listings for airdates, times and stations in their area. In addition to national syndication, this special will be available on Hulu.
With preparations underway to celebrate the Silver Anniversary Super Bowl Soulful Celebration on Wednesday, Feb. 7 at the Pearl Theater, Palms Casino Resort during Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas, this television special serves as a fitting prelude. It sets the stage for what promises to be an even more remarkable and memorable evening honoring 25 years of bringing people together through the shared love of music, faith, and the game of football. Ticket sales begin Dec. 1 at Ticketmaster.com.
The “Best Of Super Bowl Gospel Celebration” is presented by Procter & Gamble and its trusted, quality brands: Bounty®, Crest®, Febreze®, and Gillette®. The “Best Of” is also sponsored by NFL Player Engagement (NFLPE). Valarie Benning Thompson serves as producer.
The 2023 Super Bowl Soulful Celebration was a night of uplifting performances, unique tributes, and words of encouragement by NFL players Demario Davis (New Orleans Saints), Donovan McNabb (Philadelphia Eagles), and hosted by syndicated radio personality Willie Moore, Jr.
One of Gospel music’s prolific artists, Tye Tribbett, kicked off the show with “Get Up” & “We Gon Be Alright,” which brought the audience to its feet. Grammy-winning contemporary gospel artist Israel Houghton set the atmosphere by performing “You Are Good” and “Moving Forward.” The powerhouse gospel music artist Kierra Sheard-Kelly took the audience higher with “Something Has To Break” and a spirited collaboration of her song “Miracles” with the Players Choir. Comprised of current and former NFL Players, the choir celebrated their 15th milestone year in the same city where they first performed together as a group back in 2008. Other players making appearances include Kelvin Beachum of the Arizona Cardinals and Justin Herron of the Las Vegas Raiders.
The legendary Patti LaBelle closed out the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration by performing her signature hits “Something Special (Is Gonna Happen Tonight),” “If Only You Knew,” and more, which kept the audience on its feet, dancing and inspired.
This year’s honoree Philadelphia Eagles Quarterback, Jalen Hurts, received the “Faith In Action” award, which honors current and former NFL Players making an impact in their communities and the lives of others off the field. Nicole Lynn, Hurts’ sports agent and the first black woman to represent a National Football League draft pick, serves as the president of football operations for Klutch Sports Group and accepted the award on Jalen’s behalf.
The Super Bowl Soulful Celebration brings together NFL players, gospel and contemporary Christian performers, comedy, and award-winning musicians on one stage for a spectacular show filled with song, hop, laughter, and uplifting messages of inspiration. Produced by Melanie Few, the only woman and person of color, and an NFL-sanctioned event during Super Bowl week.
Super Bowl Soulful Celebration: An Evening of Inspiration and Culture, formerly Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (SBGC), is founded and executive produced by Atlanta-based marketing consultant Melanie Few. Conceived in 1999 as a gospel brunch in Miami, Super Bowl Soulful Celebration continues as the only multicultural program and inspirational event sanctioned by the NFL during Super Bowl weekend. The annual event joins together key NFL Players, top Gospel/Contemporary Christian and mainstream GRAMMY® Award winning artists, and special guests all on one stage to bring audiences an evening of uplifting music, laughter, and inspirational messages.
The SMG Report has covered several celebrations and 2023 was the best, ever! Stay tuned to our socials for airdates and updates!
Marking its 24th year, the groundbreaking music and inspiration extravaganza “Super Bowl Soulful Celebration: An Evening of Inspiration and Culture,” (formerly Super Bowl Gospel Celebration) returns during Super Bowl LVII week with a live taping on Wednesday, Feb. 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the Mesa Arts Center in Mesa, Arizona.
The only multicultural program and community event sanctioned by the NFL during Super Bowl weekend, the highly anticipated night of music, comedy, NFL Players and soulful inspiration is themed “Unstoppable,” with featured performances from the legendary Patti LaBelle, Israel Houghton, The Players Choir and more!
“Super Bowl Soulful Celebration: An Evening of Inspiration and Culture,” (formerly Super Bowl Gospel Celebration)
In addition to uplifting and inspiring audiences with musical tributes, Super Bowl Soulful Celebration highlights NFL players, their faith and philanthropy. This year, the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration will confer its highest honor, the “Faith In Action” Award, to Philadelphia Eagles Quarterback and Super Bowl LVII contender Jalen Hurts.
The “Faith In Action” award honors current and former NFL players making an impact in their communities and in the lives of others off the field. Jalen’s service to the Philadelphia community, numerous charities and his native Texas has aided countless individuals and institutions. Previous recipients of this special recognition include Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders, Tim Brown, Russell Wilson, Tony Dungy and Troy Vincent, among others.
Super Bowl Soulful Celebration: An Evening of Inspiration and Culture, formerly Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (SBGC), is founded and executive produced by Atlanta-based marketing consultant Melanie Few. Conceived in 1999 as a gospel brunch in Miami, Super Bowl Soulful Celebration continues as the only multicultural program and inspirational event sanctioned by the NFL during Super Bowl weekend. The evening brings together an ensemble of NFL players, gospel/contemporary Christian performers, comedy and award-winning musicians spanning all genres on one stage for a spectacular show filled with song, hope, laughter and uplifting messages of inspiration. This year’s show-stopping performers include the illustrious Patti LaBelle, joined by Israel Houghton, The Players Choir and more.
Originating at Super Bowl XXXIII in 1999, the annual event joins together key NFL Players, top Gospel/Contemporary Christian and mainstream GRAMMY® Award winning artists, and special guests all on one stage to bring audiences an evening of uplifting music, laughter, and inspirational messages.
Past programs have featured show stopping performances from artists such as Yolanda Adams, CeeLo Green, Chloe Bailey, Kirk Franklin, Snoop Dogg, Pharrell Williams, Patti LaBelle, Erica Campbell, Gladys Knight, Fantasia, Donnie McClurkin, CeCe Winans, and Anthony Hamilton among others.
The Players Choir, comprised of former NFL players
For fifteen years, the Players Choir has delivered one of the most highly-anticipated musical performances during the biggest weekend in sports, the annual Super Bowl Weekend. Making its debut in 2008 in Phoenix, Arizona during the 9th Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (now Super Bowl Soulful Celebration), the choir launched with more than 40 active and former NFL players under the direction of Grammy Award-Winning artist, Donnie McClurkin.
Developed by Super Bowl Soulful Celebration Founder and Executive Producer Melanie Few with a core group of NFL players who wanted to share their faith through song, this summer the group delivered two fan-favorite performances on the highest-rated television variety competition show “America’s Got Talent,” (AGT) – the classic Bill Withers anthem “Lean on Me” and Justin Timberlake’s chart-topping “Can’t Stop The Feeling.”
Led by Grammy-winning Gospel producer Myron Butler, now the choir is back in the city where it all began for a special milestone appearance — current and former NFL Players appearing with the choir include: Bryan Scott, Buffalo Bills; Cameron Newton, Atlanta Falcons; Michael Gaines, Carolina Panthers; Stephen Pierce, Cleveland Browns; Isaiah McKenzie, Buffalo Bills; Tully Banta-Cain, New England Patriots; Jamon Brown, Philadelphia Eagles, Los Angeles Rams; Trey Williams, USFL (previously Cowboys); Nathan Palmer, 49ers, Broncos; KeShun Freeman, New Orleans Saints; Dwayne Wright, Buffalo Bills; Prince Amukamara, NY Giants; Willie Yarbary, USFL (previously LA Chargers); Michael Martin, Cincinnati Bengals; and Timothy Johnson, Las Vegas Raiders.
To stay up to date with the latest Players Choir news and activities, please follow them on social @PlayersChoir.
Melanie Few, SBSC founder
Meet the Visionary, Melanie Few
Melanie Few, Founder, Executive Producer, and NFL Sanction Holder of Results Marketing and Media (RMM). Melanie is the only female and person of color with an NFL sanctioned event. She also founded the (NFL) Players Choir in 2014, which has become a staple performance at Super Bowl Soulful Celebration. The Players Choir drew national recognition with their fan favorite appearances on “America’s Got Talent” in 2022. Melanie’s company RMM has partnered with agencies and corporations alike to create, plan and produce over two hundred integrated marketing events, representing more than thirty brands across sixty product categories.
