The NFL’s Thanksgiving lineup reads like a masterclass in regional music curation. Jack White headlines the Detroit Lions’ traditional game against Green Bay, bringing his garage rock authenticity to Ford Field at 1:00 PM EST. This isn’t just celebrity booking—it’s cultural matchmaking.
White’s Detroit roots run deep, from his White Stripes legacy to his ongoing Third Man Records operations in the city. Behind the scenes, Eminem and manager Paul Rosenberg executive-produce the show, launching a multi-year partnership through 2027. That’s industry heavyweight backing for what could become the NFL’s most musically credible halftime shows series.
The collaboration pairs two Detroit legends who’ve shaped vastly different corners of American music.
Post Malone Takes Dallas
Texas native headlines Cowboys-Chiefs showdown with charity focus
Post Malone anchors the Dallas Cowboys’ 4:30 PM ET clash against Kansas City, continuing the 29th annual Red Kettle Kickoff for The Salvation Army. The artist’s Texas upbringing and known Cowboys fandom create authentic connection—no corporate synergy required.
“It’s a real honor to be part of the Red Kettle Kickoff with The Salvation Army and the Dallas Cowboys and help bring hope to so many people,” Malone stated. The timing works perfectly for Malone’s current cultural moment, bridging his hip-hop credibility with mainstream appeal.
His Cowboys game placement targets maximum viewership during prime family viewing hours.
Lil Jon Rounds Out Triple-Header
Atlanta producer brings party energy to Ravens-Bengals finale
Lil Jon closes the night during Baltimore’s 8:20 PM contest against Cincinnati on NBC. While geographically less obvious than the Detroit and Dallas pairings, his party-starter reputation fits the late-game slot perfectly.
The Ravens broadcast also features Tony winner Renée Elise Goldsberry performing the national anthem, adding Broadway gravitas to hip-hop energy. All three games span FOX, CBS, and NBC, ensuring maximum reach for what amounts to a mini-music festival embedded in America’s most traditional sporting day.
Strategic Music Curation
NFL’s multi-year commitment signals entertainment evolution
This coordinated approach represents the NFL’s recognition that halftime shows now carry cultural weight beyond simple intermission entertainment. Eminem’s multi-year Detroit deal suggests sustained investment in musical authenticity over one-off celebrity appearances.
The approach demonstrates sports entertainment maturing into something resembling curated cultural programming. The league’s pairing of regional artists with hometown teams creates deeper fan connection than random star bookings ever could.
