Super Bowl XLIX: Katy Perry, Missy Elliott, Lenny Kravitz Halftime Show includes ‘Work It,’ ‘Teenage Dream’

There is no greater gig for a pop star than the Super Bowl Halftime Show. You are getting the chance to perform for more than a hundred million people, and there are some serious nerves that have to be involved there.

So how did Katy Perry do as the lead performer this year? We’re sure that there will be complaints because there always is anytime you are this high-profile of a performer. However, we feel like she did a really great job maximizing her time and really giving you an array of her hits, from “Teenage Dream” to “I Kissed a Girl” (with Lenny Kravitz) to “Roar” to “Dark Horse.” The color scheme was vibrant, and Katy felt committed to giving a great show. She had a ton of energy from start to finish and gave us exactly what we wanted from her.

The biggest surprise to us was seeing Missy Elliott during the performance, since we had no idea that she was going to be one of the performers (well we heard rumors but nothing was really confirmed until she came out on stage). She had a set that included “Lose Control,” “Work It,” and “Get Your Freak On.” It was especially surprising given that she and Katy don’t necessarily have a huge history as collaborators, but it was a surprise that totally made our day!

We closed the show with Katy doing a rendition of her smash hit “Firework” while flying through the air. It was a very bold way to conclude the show, but also a pretty awesome one.

Overall, we have to say that this may be one of the best Halftime Shows that we’ve ever seen. There were some surprises for sure, but also a focus on the music and a big spectacle. Basically, it was how a halftime show should be. Grade: A-.

What was your take on Katy’s performance? Share in the comments and the poll below, and be sure to head over here to get some further TV updates on all we cover via our CarterMatt Newsletter. We’ll have video soon. (Photo: NBC.)