As Black History Month draws to a close, don't miss this historic evening of inspiration and entertainment, the "Super Bowl Soulful Celebration 25th Anniversary," which ushered in its quarter-century milestone with an epic show taped during Super Bowl LVIII week in Las Vegas. Hosted by the dynamic duo Cedric the Entertainer and Tichina Arnold, the program was an electrifying fusion of faith, fellowship, and football. Following its successful debut on CBS Television Network, the one-hour special is now available to stream on-demand via CBS.com and Pluto TV for a limited time.
The show features performances from a stellar lineup of artists, including Earth, Wind & Fire, T-Pain, Mickey Guyton, Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, Robin Thicke, Rachel Platten, and The Players Choir. 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. The Super Bowl may have been played, but this music special unites the spirit of football and cultural pride in a way that fans can enjoy long after the last touchdown of the season.
Themed "Just Believe," the celebration uplifts and inspires, providing a platform for some of the most dynamic talents in the NFL, as well as the soul and R&B scene to shine. From the recognition of HBCU alumni like Markquese Bell (Dallas Cowboys) honored with the "HBCU Spotlight;" the "New Beginnings" award presentation to Damar Hamlin (Buffalo Bills) and his parents; and the heartfelt testimony of CJ Stroud (Houston Texans) during "The Faith in Action" award presentation, the event touches 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!"
CBS Mornings and NFL Today Co-Host, and former NFL player Nate Burleson was honored with the Lifetime of Inspiration award, with colleague Gayle King attending in support, participating in the presentation via a video package. In his moving acceptance speech, Burleson left a lasting impact with his poignant words: "I feel like life is about your fingerprints and your footprints. With your fingerprints, make sure you touch a soul before you leave this earth. And with your footprints, make them so big that everybody after you can walk in them comfortably."
In an inspiring segment recognizing their remarkable contributions to the NFL, their trailblazing efforts in breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations, three exceptional women: Kimberly Fields, Dasha Smith, and Sandra Douglass Morgan were presented with the Glass Ceiling Breaker Award.
Special appearances were made by James Brown, Gayle King, Calais Campbell, Tamala Jones, Fred Taylor, Brandon Marshall, Caroline Wanga, Paul Derousselle, and Monique Rodriquez,
Red carpet arrivals were hosted by nationally syndicated radio personalities Willie Moore, Jr. and Jasmine Sanders, adding a touch of glamour to the festivities. Celebrity guests and NFL players in attendance included Doug E. Fresh, Terry and Rebecca Crews (AGT host & former NFL player), YoYo (rap star), Obba Babatunde (actor, director), Tim Brown (Oakland Raiders) Greg Ellis (Dallas Cowboys), Michael Cox (NY Giants), Tony Dixon (Dallas Cowboys), Jeffery Simmons (Tennessee Titans), Keith Washington (singer), Nick Ferguson (Denver Broncos), D'Andre McKenzie (Squid Game), Laterras R. Whitfield (Dear Future Wifey Podcast), Deron Guidrey (PlayersTV), designer Rachel Motley, Farrah Gray (author), Tammy Franklin, and more.
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.
