Coco Jones made a powerful statement at Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026. She performed “Lift Every Voice and Sing” at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Her outfit paid tribute to Whitney Houston’s legendary 1991 Super Bowl appearance.
The shinning star worked with streetwear legend Karl Kani to create her custom look. Together, they reimagined Houston’s iconic tracksuit for a new generation. The timing during Black History Month made the moment even more meaningful.
Karl Kani Brings Streetwear Heritage to Football’s Biggest Stage
Karl Kani couldn’t hide his emotions about the collaboration. “I’m overwhelmed,” he told ESSENCE exclusively. “They could have gone to any designer in the world—Gucci, Fendi, Prada. But they came to Karl Kani.”
The designer saw this as validation of his life’s work. He founded his brand in 1989 on the streets of Brooklyn. For 35 years, he fought to prove streetwear belonged in high fashion.
Kani made history as the first Black designer with a full-page New York Times ad. His oversized silhouettes and bold logos defined modern streetwear. Hip-hop icons like Aaliyah, Tupac, The Notorious B.I.G., and Jay-Z all wore his designs.
From Athletic Tracksuit to Red Carpet Glamour
Houston’s original look featured a classic athletic tracksuit in 1991. Kani transformed this into something completely new yet familiar. He created a mini bubble skirt with a dramatic sweeping train.
The cropped jacket featured sculpted detailing and special interior lining. This lining matched what Houston wore 35 years ago. “It kept that athletic feeling but elevated it into something elegant and dramatic,” Kani explained.
The ensemble perfectly blended streetwear, performance art, and cultural history. It honored the past while creating something fresh. Jones wore this powerful look before the game between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots.
A Testament to Black Culture’s Enduring Power
Kani reflected on the deeper meaning of this moment. “It speaks to the resilience it took for us to be here,” he said. His brand survived decades of doubt and dismissal.
Critics once called streetwear just a passing trend. They said the same thing about hip-hop music. “But we’re still here,” Kani noted with pride.
The collaboration represents more than fashion. It shows how Black culture belongs on the world’s biggest stages. When representation is visible, possibility follows for future generations.
Whitney Houston’s Legacy Lives On
Whitney Houston’s 1991 Super Bowl performance remains legendary in American culture. She sang the National Anthem before the New York Giants defeated the Buffalo Bills 20-19. That moment happened at Tampa Stadium in Tampa, Florida.
Her red, white, and blue tracksuit became an instant icon. The look combined patriotism with athletic style. It showed that performance fashion could be both comfortable and memorable.
Jones’ tribute brought that legacy full circle. She honored Houston while making the moment her own. The reimagined outfit proved how timeless great style can be.
Breaking Barriers in Fashion and Culture
Kani’s journey mirrors the broader story of Black excellence. He started with nothing but vision and determination. Now he designs for one of entertainment’s biggest nights.
His brand paved the way for countless other designers. He proved that street culture deserved respect and recognition. The Super Bowl moment validated everything he built.
Jones’ choice to work with Kani sent a clear message. Black designers deserve these opportunities. Black culture enriches every space it touches.