GLENDALE, Ariz. –
The U.S. Air Force premier rock band, Max Impact, performed for Super Bowl XLIX fans at Westgate Entertainment District in Glendale, Arizona, Feb. 1.
Thousands of football fans listened to the 30-minute concert as they passed through the restaurants and stores of Westgate. The dining and entertainment district is less than a half-mile from The University of Phoenix Stadium, where Super Bowl XLIX was held.
They played a single show, ranging from class rock to country, at the district, just hours before the kick-off of Super Bowl XLIX.
"This is probably a highlight of my career, playing for 10,000 to 15,000 people on Super Bowl Sunday," said Tech. Sgt. Robert K. Smith, Max Impact percussionist. "The performance went absolutely amazing."
The band transitioned into their final song by asking everyone to take a moment to be serious and remember the events of Sept. 11, 2001.
"We all remember where we were and what we were doing when we heard about the attack on twin towers," said Senior Master Sgt. Ryan Carson, Max Impact vocalist. "But today, instead, I want to focus on the days after the attack, when all the stores were sold out of American Flags, we want to take you back to those days and the sense of pride the nation felt."
The band concluded their performance with "God Bless the U.S.A.," a song by Lee Greenwood.
"They made me feel like a real patriot," said Railton Anderson, an attendee, laughing as he tugs at his New England jersey.
The six-member band provided similar patriotic closers for their four shows at Fan Fest in Scottsdale, Arizona, Jan. 26-29. The week-long entertainment, fashion and food event was home to the Entertainment Sports and Programming Network's live broadcast for the Super Bowl.
"I think the tour was great," said Sgt. Jonathan McPherson, Max Impact pianist. "We had the opportunity to play for Super Bowl fans and reach a national audience by being featured on ESPN."
The band seeks to use the power of music to inspire audiences worldwide, create innovative products and programs while representing Air Force excellence.
"We brought the Air Force message not only to the people of Glendale, but also the nation and the world," McPherson said.