Pop sensation Charlie Puth has directly addressed the criticism surrounding his upcoming performance of the national anthem at Super Bowl LX. The NFL announced Puth as the anthem singer on November 30, 2025, a decision that was immediately met with some scepticism, including from one critic who unfavourably compared him to the legendary Whitney Houston.
A Confident and Humble Rebuttal on Social Media
Instead of ignoring the comments, Puth chose to confront them head-on. On December 1, 2025, he took to the platform X with a concise but powerful thread. He began by acknowledging Houston's unparalleled legacy, stating he would never claim to be as good a singer. However, he confidently assured fans of a "really special arrangement" in D major and promised it would be "one of my best vocal performances." This blend of respect for the past and self-assurance in his own craft resonated widely, with the post being viewed millions of times.
Turning Criticism into a Vocal Masterclass
To back up his words with action, Puth posted an instructive video on Instagram. In it, he broke down the technical challenges of "The Star-Spangled Banner," explaining its extreme vocal range to his followers. He detailed how the anthem spans from a low D to a super high A, a range much wider than most difficult songs. This move served as a public reminder that Puth is not just a pop hitmaker but a Berklee College of Music-trained arranger and producer, effectively turning casual critique into a showcase of his expertise.
Context and a Star-Studded Lineup
The NFL has curated a diverse set of performers for the big game. Alongside Charlie Puth, the pregame show will feature Brandi Carlile and Coco Jones, while global superstar Bad Bunny is set to headline the halftime show. In a subsequent interview with E! News on December 2, 2025, Puth expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, lightheartedly referencing a past comment by Taylor Swift about big opportunities manifesting.
Charlie Puth's response demonstrates a modern approach to handling public scrutiny. By combining genuine humility with transparent confidence in his technical skills, he has successfully shifted the narrative from doubt to anticipation for a performance focused squarely on musical prowess.
