Who is Charlie Puth, the performer of the national anthem at Super Bowl 2026?

At a time when musicians used to make their way through small clubs and local venues, Charlie Puth found his platform on the internet. YouTube was the starting point for a career that today ranks him as one of the most recognized singer-songwriters and producers in contemporary pop.

At just 18 years old, Puth created his own channel, Charlie Vlogs, where he began sharing original performances and compositions. His talent did not go unnoticed: figures such as Ellen DeGeneres quickly discovered him, and covers such as "Someone Like You" began to go viral, rapidly expanding his audience.

Classical training and solid academic foundation

Born in Rumson, New Jersey, Charlie Puth began his musical studies at the age of four, guided by his mother, who taught him piano from an early age. His talent led him to train at the Pre-College Division of the Manhattan School of Music, specializing in jazz piano, a foundation that would shape his artistic identity.

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He subsequently earned a full scholarship to Berklee College of Music, where he graduated in 2013 with a degree in music production and engineering. During that period, he was already showing signs of his potential: one of his first YouTube videos, posted while he was attending Berklee's Five-Week Summer Performance Program, reached over 10,000 subscribers in just three weeks.

He becomen a succesful singer, songwriter, and producer. best known for his smooth pop sound, perfect pitch, and knack for crafting massive radio hits. His big mainstream moment came in 2015 with "See You Again" (with Wiz Khalifa), the emotional tribute to Paul Walker from Furious 7, which topped charts worldwide and became one of the most streamed songs of all time.

He auditioned for the Super Bowl gig

In an interview with Rolling Stone, the singer explained that he recorded a home demo auditioning for the 2026 Super Bowl, singing only with a Rhodes piano, and sent it directly to Roc Nation, the production company headed by Jay-Z that collaborates with the NFL in organizing the show.

According to Puth, the material reached Jay-Z, who approved the proposal before it was presented to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.

"I showed up and auditioned, but I made it up because I always wanted to sing the anthem. Musically it's the best song, it's very special," he explained.