Are you ready for football season? We know we are. But if your enthusiasm for the start of this year's NFL season could use a little kick in the pants, check out the planned -- and rumored -- musical performances associated with the launch and conclusion of it.

The NFL has now confirmed that its 89th season will be ushered in by ... well, none other than Usher.

The R&B star will perform during a special and (more importantly) free pregame event on September 4 at 3 p.m. in New York's Columbus Circle. Country crooner Keith Urban will also take the stage, right before the defending Super Bowl champs, the New York Giants, face the Washington Redskins in this year's season opener.

Meanwhile, rumors abound about who'll be playing the Super Bowl halftime show -- following last season's set from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and a dazzling, rain-drenched performance two years ago from Prince. The New York Post reported earlier this week that the pride of New Jersey (no, not the Jonas Brothers), Bruce Springsteen, will bring his E Street Band to the big game -- set for February 1 in Tampa, Florida -- to rock the crowd at Raymond James Stadium. The NFL declined to confirm the booking, telling The Associated Press that it does not discuss halftime plans before it makes the announcement. A Springsteen spokesperson also declined to comment.