Journey and the Bethune-Cookman University Marching Wildcats performed during the pre-game show , while Jennifer Hudson sang " The Star-Spangled Banner " ( arranged by Chris Walden ) in her first public appearance since the murder of her nephew , brother and mother . Hudson became the second consecutive alumna from the '' American Idol '' television series to perform the national anthem at a Super Bowl ( Jordin Sparks sang the anthem at Super Bowl XLII ) . The national anthem was translated into American Sign Language by Kristen Santos . Following the anthem , the United States Air Force Thunderbirds performed a fly-over . John Legend performed a short concert several hours before the game , while Faith Hill performed " America the Beautiful " prior to Hudson 's performance of the national anthem . Also , the crew of US Airways Flight 1549 were recognized on field for their actions
US Airways Flight 1549
US Airways Flight 1549
Super Bowl XLIII