In the United States of America, sport is often combined with musical performances to create an unrivaled spectacle. While European fans might find it odd, American sports fanatics generally endorse it. In fact, fans of specific franchises find it adds to the entertainment and makes for a stronger all-around sporting product. However, when assessing the musical performances in the NBA, some have stood out more than others. 

Be it during NBA All-Star halftime shows or before the action takes place during a regular-season game, basketball’s top competition has seen some music royalty put on some memorable performances. On the whole, though, the biggest and best artists appear during NBA All-Star halftime shows. For fans who make their fantasy picks and bet after checking out the latest NBA Finals odds, it’s a pastime where they can enjoy watching their heroes produce game-winning moments, alongside witnessing a masterful musician in motion. 

With NBA crowds being treated to some truly unforgettable performances, below we take a look back at some of the standout shows from some of music’s biggest icons. From hip hop stars to country artists, NBA games have featured a diverse range of music over the years. 

Pharrell Williams in 2014 

As mentioned, the most famous musicians tend to appear during NBA All-Star games, with some iconic tunes being played live throughout the competition’s rich history. In 2014, music icon Pharrell Williams nailed it with his All-Star game show entertaining mass audiences. Taking place in New Orleans, Pharrell was joined on stage by some of urban music’s most famous faces, including Nelly, Busta Rhymes, and Snoop Dogg. It was special. 

Shania Twain in 1996

Shania Twain has sold millions of records and tickets around the world. As such, when it was announced that the best-selling female artist in country music history was performing ahead of the Vancouver Grizzlies and the Toronto Raptors’ clash in Canada, fans were understandably excited to see one of the country’s biggest exports perform on home soil. Thankfully, Shania Twain rose to the challenge, with her fantastic rendition of “O Canada” going down particularly well with the crowd. 

Broadway All-Stars in 1998 

Of course, sometimes music comes from theatre productions. In 1998, the NBA joined forces with Broadway to offer viewing audiences a unique show during that particular year’s All-Star game. Featuring leading performers from shows like The Phantom of the Opera, Cats, and Titanic, the performance was essentially a massive medley of Broadway hits performed by some of the finest professionals around. The fact that NBA icons like Patrick Ewing and Walt Frazier were also part of the proceedings made it even more memorable. 

Chance the Rapper and Lil Wayne in 2020

During the 2020 All-Star Weekend, once the skills competitions and the Rising Stars game were over, fans couldn’t wait to see Chance the Rapper and Lil Wayne take to the stage. The pair promised to deliver a spectacular performance of their track ‘No Problem’, and they didn’t disappoint. Bringing their usual energy while rapping over a heavy beat, it was arguably the highlight of the entire weekend. 

Elton John in 2002 

Elton John might be more used to watching his beloved Watford play Championship soccer, but the British singer, songwriter and pianist clearly enjoyed his taste of NBA life during a wonderful show he put on in 2002. Taking to the middle of the court for the All-Star Game at the First Union Center in Philadelphia, highlights included “I’m Still Standing” and “Philadelphia Freedom”. The locals particularly enjoyed the latter track, with Elton John and his piano performing on top of a star-shaped American flag platform.