now that’s entertainment

I’ve never understood the hype around the Super Bowl halftime show.

I suppose people think it matters because there are about a billion or so eyeballs on the screen—careers can be made or broken with a great or bad performance. Everyone hails Prince’s terrific performance from a few years ago, and we’re all still scratching our heads over exactly what it was that the Black-Eyed Peas did two years ago. And of course, Janet Jackson’s legendary wardrobe malfunction cannot be erased from the national consciousness (despite our earnest efforts).

Last year’s performance by Madonna was generally entertaining, although the best part was Richard Simmons lookalike Andy Lewis’ amazing work on the slackline—

How many times do you think he inadvertently groined or strangled himself learning that set of skills? Yowch!

Regardless, the Super Bowl halftime show really is playing a few songs in the middle of the NFL championship game when most people are either attacking the buffet or in the bathroom purging for the second half. Putting a big famous musical act in the middle of it all just seems to be adding more noise to the biggest commercial of the year. Aside from the actual game (for me), it all just sort of blends together.

My suggestion for a performance that no one will forget?

South Africa’s Die Antwoord—

I warn you: This video is NOT SAFE FOR WORK! It also may be considered OFFENSIVE, CRUDE, LEWD AND RUDE in many parts, but … the song is catchy and the video is … well … the most entertaining thing you will see today.

Now that’s entertainment!

And can you imagine the moment after the performance is over. “Now back to our announcers Jim Nantz and Phil Simms ….”

Jim and Phil [in booth, mouths dropped open]: ….. *

A few words about Die Antwoord—think of them like Marilyn Manson, an act specifically created to shock and offend. The two singers, Ninja and Yolandi, have talked about being in character (think David Bowie in his Ziggy Stardust phase). By the way, they are a couple and have a child together.

According to Wikipedia:

When asked if he was playing a character, Ninja said, “Ninja is, how can I say, like Superman is to Clark Kent. The only difference is, I don’t take off this fokken Superman suit.” They have described their work as “documentary fiction” and “exaggerated experience” designed for shock value.

If you wondering about the hate for Lady Gaga, apparently she asked them to open for her during her South African tour, and this video was their response. (“Uh … so I guess that’s a NO, then …”)

Check out the making of “Fatty Boom Boom,” which will allay some of your feelings about what you just saw. Bottom line: It’s all an act … and a rather entertaining one!

Now move over Beyoncé!