JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Jackson State University’s (JSU) Sonic Boom of the South performed with Usher during the Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show.

On Sunday, Usher kicked off his halftime show in Vegas style – surrounded by a field full of showgirls and other showy dancers, he shed an extravagant feather cape as he stepped from a stage onto the field while singing his 2004 hit “Caught.”

It’s the first song in a medley of many from the R&B star as he tries to squeeze highlights from a 30-year career into 13 minutes.

Alicia Keys joined Usher as a surprise guest during his halftime show, singing her “If I Ain’t Got You” while standing at a midfield piano that looked like a red hunk of abstract sculpture.

She then stood up and entangled with Usher as they sang their duet “My Boo,” with her dressed in sparkling red and in contrast with his sparkling white. The singer shed his shirt soon after.

Usher was then joined by the Sonic Boom of the South on the field as he raced through both dance and slow jams including “U Don’t Have to Call.”

Officials with JSU said in November 2023, the students were hand selected to join Usher on the field for the halftime show.

“This honor adds to the Boom’s legacy of iconic performances and moments that help elevate our university’s name and brand,” officials stated.

In 2025, the Sonic Boom of the South will perform at the 136th Rose Parade.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.