The vibrant Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Resort Casino set the stage for a historic evening of inspiration and entertainment as the “Super Bowl Soulful Celebration” celebrated its quarter-century milestone. Hosted by the dynamic duo Cedric the Entertainer and Tichina Arnold, and under the musical direction of Emmy Award-winning and Grammy-nominated Adam Blackstone, the event was an electrifying fusion of faith, fellowship, and football, directed by the talented Leon Knoles. The one-hour special premieres tonight, Saturday, February 10 at 8 p.m./9c on CBS and streams on Paramount+ (*live for Paramount+ with Showtime subscribers) as well as on demand on Pluto TV and cbs.com for 90 days after the special airs.
The show features performances from a stellar lineup of artists, including Earth, Wind & Fire, T-Pain, Rachel Platten, Mickey Guyton, Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, Robin Thicke, The Players Choir, and more. Southern University’s “HBCU Band Drumline, also known as the “Human Jukebox,” helped open the star-studded event, showcasing the rich talent and cultural pride of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), a wonderful way to highlight Black History Month. It’s a monumental moment where the spirit of football and cultural pride unite, promising an unforgettable kickoff to the biggest weekend in sports that will set hearts racing and fans cheering.
Themed “Just Believe,” the celebration aims to uplift and inspire, providing a platform for some of the most dynamic talents in the soul and R&B scene to shine. From the recognition of HBCU alumni like Markquese Bell, the “New Beginnings” award presentation to Damar Hamlin and his parents, and to the heartfelt testimony of CJ Stroud during “The Faith in Action” award presentation, the event touched on themes of community, faith, and purpose.
In his acceptance speech, Stroud expressed how he discovered his purpose to serve the Lord and inspire youth, driven by the talent instilled in his heart. Encouraging others to use their burning passions as fuel for God’s calling, he emphasized how a mentor empowered him with these words of wisdom: “Your passion is greedy but your purpose is for others!”
Nate Burleson was honored with the Lifetime of Inspiration award, with CBS Mornings Host Gayle King attending in support and participating in the presentation via a video package.
Earth, Wind & Fire and T-Pain’s collaboration undoubtedly stole the show, setting a high standard for the energy and excitement of the upcoming Super Bowl. The event’s emphasis on the significance of national HBCUs further highlighted its commitment to celebrating diversity and fostering unity.
As the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration reached its crescendo, the high vibration energy in the house undoubtedly left attendees buzzing with anticipation for the big game. With its blend of music, inspiration, football players and star-studded performances, the event once again proved itself as an essential part of the Super Bowl experience, providing a soulful and celebratory kickoff to one of the year’s most anticipated sporting events. Don’t miss this epic fusion of sports and soul, where history is made and the future is bright!
Super Bowl Soulful Celebration, 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.
THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY 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.
For more information, visit superbowlsoulful.com and follow updates @superbowlsoulful to stay connected. Tune in on Saturday, February 10 at 8 p.m./7C on CBS and stream on Paramount+.
*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.
