Bay Area Rapper LaRussell to Open Super Bowl LX Tailgate Concert

LaRussell's grassroots movement lands him the coveted pregame performance slot and in-game music duties at Super Bowl LX in San Francisco.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Independent Bay Area rapper LaRussell has been tapped to open the Super Bowl LX Tailgate Concert on Sunday, February 8, 2026 in San Francisco. LaRussell, known for his community-driven approach and Bay Area-centric sound, will also serve as the in-game 'house band' providing music during timeouts, commercial breaks, and other transitional moments throughout the big game at Levi's Stadium.

Why it matters

LaRussell's selection represents a shift in the NFL's approach to the Super Bowl's pregame entertainment, moving away from generic, nationally-focused acts towards an artist who embodies the local flavor and culture of the host city. His grassroots rise and commitment to engaging directly with his Bay Area fanbase make him an inspired choice to kick off the festivities and keep the energy high throughout the game.

The details

After building a loyal following through backyard shows, pay-what-you-want album releases, and high-profile collaborations with Bay Area legends like E-40, LaRussell caught the attention of Roc Nation. The entertainment company helped secure him the coveted Super Bowl LX Tailgate Concert opening slot, as well as the in-game music duties typically reserved for established national acts.

  • LaRussell first teased his Super Bowl LX ambitions on Christmas Day 2025 by posting a performance video with the caption 'LaRussell for Super Bowl 2026'.
  • On January 28, 2026, the NFL and Roc Nation officially announced LaRussell as the opener for the Super Bowl LX Tailgate Concert.
  • The Super Bowl LX Tailgate Concert will take place on Sunday, February 8, 2026 at 3:50 p.m. ET.

The players

LaRussell

An independent rapper from Vallejo, California who has built a grassroots following through community-focused performances and releases.

Roc Nation

The entertainment company founded by Jay-Z that has been involved in producing the Super Bowl's musical acts in recent years.

Teddy Swims

The headliner for the Super Bowl LX Tailgate Concert, set to perform after LaRussell's opening set.

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What they’re saying

“We must showcase the vibrant local culture and music of the host city at the Super Bowl. LaRussell's grassroots approach and Bay Area sound make him the perfect artist to kick off the festivities this year.”

— Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner (NFL.com)

“This is a dream come true. I've been grinding for years to put Vallejo and the whole Bay Area on the map, and now I get to bring that energy to the biggest stage in sports. I can't wait to get the party started on Super Bowl Sunday.”

— LaRussell (The Breakfast Club)

What’s next

Fans will have to tune in to the Super Bowl LX Tailgate Concert on Peacock at 3:50 p.m. ET on Sunday, February 8, 2026 to see LaRussell's opening performance before Teddy Swims takes the stage. LaRussell will also be providing the in-game music throughout the broadcast, giving viewers a taste of the Bay Area's unique sound and culture.

The takeaway

LaRussell's selection to headline the Super Bowl LX Tailgate Concert and provide in-game music duties represents a shift in the NFL's approach to the event's entertainment, moving away from generic national acts towards embracing the local flavor and culture of the host city. His grassroots rise and commitment to engaging directly with his Bay Area fanbase make him an inspired choice to kick off the festivities and keep the energy high throughout the big game.