GLENDALE, Ariz., Dec. 2 (UPI) -- Rockers Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers have been tabbed to perform at halftime of Super Bowl XLII in Glendale, Ariz.
The Arizona Republic said Sunday the selection is likely part of a new Super Bowl trend toward musical acts appealing to an older audience.
Since the now infamous "wardrobe malfunction" in 2004 involving singers Justin Timberlake and Janet Jackson, the annual sporting event has invited more traditional musical fare.
Recent halftime performances have included former Beatles star Paul McCartney, Prince and the Rolling Stones.
The Republic said several other veteran rock groups were in the running for the Feb. 3 performance, including Bon Jovi and the Eagles, but Petty's band won out in the end.
While Petty will headline the halftime festivities, the game's pregame entertainment has yet to be finalized as talks continue to focus on a possible appearance by "American Idol" winner Jordin Sparks.
