Alicia Keys' vocals have been optimized to eliminate errors from the Super Bowl halftime show on YouTube

Usher's Super Bowl halftime performance earned the R&B star gold stars for his suave – and seemingly tireless – performance of his classic hits. Unfortunately, most (if not all) of the show's negative criticism was directed at one of its special guests, Alicia Keys, who delivered a rendition of her 2003 hit “If I Ain't Got You.”

Keys stood out in a shimmering red ensemble that morphed into an elongated cape, and began her performance with a high soprano that briefly turned into a croak as the cape fell down. Snippets of the botched note spread like wildfire across the internet as critics flocked to analyze it and fans rushed to her defense.

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Subsequently, the NFL and Apple Music edited out the gossip from the re-uploaded halftime show on YouTube, and the difference in Keys' singing is uncanny. Online users have pointed out the sophisticated editing with play-by-play comparisons of the live recording and the freshly uploaded and pitch-corrected show.

diversity has reached out to Keys and Apple Music representatives for clarification.

Meanwhile, Keys' husband, veteran music producer Swizz Beatz, defended his wife on Monday with an Instagram post in which he wrote, “Y'all talking about the wrong thing dammit!!!”

“You won’t see this amazing dress covering the entire stadium,” he said. “Tonight's performance with two great Giants was simply amazing! Congratulations @usher and my dear @aliciakeys, this song is a classic. We’re not making negative sentiments on this site, we’re making history.”

Keys also accompanied Usher on a performance of her 2004 single “My Boo,” when the pair hugged at the conclusion of Keys' guest appearance. While Usher cozied up behind Keys, the two were equally criticized online for their closeness, as both singers are in long-term relationships. Still, it was Keys' vocal connection that was the focus of any negative attention.

Before the halftime show, viewers weren't sure what Usher would offer on the big night. Following Rihanna's 2023 performance, Usher also paid tribute to his extensive catalog, praising hits like “Daddy's Home,” “Yeah!” and more. In addition to Keys, Usher also welcomed Lil Jon, Ludacris, Jermaine Dupri, HER and will.i.am.

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