When Super Bowl LX opened at Levi’s Stadium, the night began with one of the most scrutinized moments in American sports: the national anthem. On that global stage, Charlie Puth was given the honor.

Ahead of the New England Patriots–Seattle Seahawks matchup, Puth delivered a performance that quickly became one of the evening’s most talked-about moments—not because it failed, but because it sparked debate.

The Super Bowl anthem is more than a song. From Whitney Houston to Chris Stapleton, past renditions have become cultural touchstones. Aware of that legacy, Puth approached the moment as a serious career milestone.

Instead of spectacle, he chose restraint. Accompanied by piano, choir, and band, Puth delivered a controlled, minimalist performance with no dramatic vocal runs or showy flourishes, keeping the melody and lyrics front and center.

Inside the stadium, the moment felt reflective. Players and coaches stood silently, some visibly moved, and applause followed immediately. Many viewers praised the performance as emotional, respectful, and technically strong.

Online reaction was largely positive. Fans highlighted his vocal precision, clean arrangement, and the absence of unnecessary embellishment. Even non-fans acknowledged the sincerity and professionalism of the delivery.

Still, skepticism emerged. Some viewers questioned whether the sound was fully live, citing its polished quality and minor audio-visual mismatches. The debate echoed familiar discussions around heavily produced live broadcasts.

Ultimately, the moment revealed less about Puth and more about modern expectations. Whether fully live or technically supported, the performance set the tone, honored tradition, and reminded audiences that the anthem still carries meaning beyond the game.