Not everyone was impressed with Rihanna’s Super Bowl LVII performance at halftime in the action-packed game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs in Arizona.
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Several viewers and fans have taken to social media to accuse the Barbadian singer of lip syncing.
Though she hasn’t done a solo live performance since 2016, Rihanna didn’t seem bothered by her return to the stage. She performed some of her most popular songs like “Umbrella” and “Work” in just 13 minutes.
As if that wasn’t impressive enough, the ‘We Found Love’ singer announced she’s pregnant with her second child and held her stomach throughout the show.
AFP
Unfortunately, according to several netizens, the impressive, gravity-defying performance wasn’t up to the pop star’s talent. Many have accused him of mimicking most of his songs from pre-recorded tracks rather than performing them live.
Worst lip sync job I’ve seen in a long time. Worst halftime show I’ve ever seen. #Rihanna
— DrinknWithDrew (@DrinknWithDrew) February 13, 2023
Could have at least gotten someone to lip sync fight Rihanna and make this interesting. #Super Bowl
— Robbie Fahy (@RobbieFahy) February 13, 2023
Rihanna is one of many pop stars accused of lip-synching at the Super Bowl halftime show. Katy Perry and the Red Hot Chili Peppers have also been accused of lip-synching during their respective performances at the sporting event.
However, the lip syncing during the Super Bowl isn’t the cheating it seems. Per NFL guidelines, cast members’ halftime rehearsals are recorded live, allowing them to sing along to the music as much or as little as they like. Many therefore choose to devote their energies to the often grueling choreographed routine.