The Big 12 Conference is going country this year, and Jon Pardi is leading the charge.
The country star will perform at halftime of the 2025 Big 12 Championship Game on Saturday, Dec. 6, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
He’ll team up with the marching bands from both participating schools to blend his high-energy sound with the pageantry of championship football.
Making History
The California native — known for hits like “Dirt on My Boots,” “Heartache Medication” and “Last Night Lonely” — will be the first country artist to headline the Big 12 Championship halftime show.
Pardi’s booking marks a shift for the conference, which featured R&B acts Nelly in 2023 and Ne-Yo in 2024.
This year, the Big 12 is swapping smooth grooves for a honky-tonk twist, fitting for a title game in the heart of Texas.
Pardi’s Ready to Party
“I’m so fired up to be part of the Big 12 Football Championship game this year — and to be the first country artist to do it makes it even more fun,” Pardi shares.
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“It’s going to be a good time — we’re going to give fans an unforgettable show.”
Pardi celebrated the news on Instagram, telling his followers he “can’t wait to bring a little country to the Big 12 stage” alongside a football emoji and a cowboy hat.
The “Heartache on the Dance Floor” singer has built a reputation for live sets that mix traditional country grit with modern flair.
Along the way, he’s earned multiple CMA and ACM awards and a devoted fanbase for his blend of old-school honky-tonk and fresh, radio-ready hits.
Game Day Deets
The 2025 Big 12 Championship Game kicks off Dec. 6 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
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With the conference race shaping up to be one of the most competitive in years, Pardi’s history-making halftime performance will be part of a can’t-miss day of football and entertainment.
See Country Stars Who’ve Played Football
Darius Rucker played football when he was young. Kenny Chesney and Garth Brooks played in high school while Trace Adkins, Chase Rice and Lee Brice played college ball. See a short list of country singers in their football uniforms.
