With every tick on the clock, we grow closer to the 2012 Super Bowl — and while that has football and music fans alike excited, it has this year’s halftime act on edge. Who knew Madonna could still get nervous?

Madge stopped in at the ‘Tonight Show’ on Monday to chat with Jay Leno about what has her stomach in knots about this year’s mid-game show. “I must say, it’s the most nerve-wracking thing I’ve ever done. The Super Bowl is kind of the holy of holies, it’s the sacred show of America. It’s the Super Bowl!” she shared. “And I have to go on in the middle of that holy of holies and put on the greatest show that was ever put on before, right? So, that’s no pressure… And here’s the crazy part — I have eight minutes to set up the stage and seven to take it down. I’m not sure why I got cheated on the other side.”

Madonna was in good spirits as she chatted from Jay’s famous office chairs, though it was clear that she wasn’t simply making a scene about being nervous — she actually has that issue with all live performances. As for whether or not Madonna was given regulations beforehand, she joked, “Well, for sure no nipples. I wasn’t going to go there, I don’t like to repeat myself or do what other people have done.”

And don’t think there’s time for a soundcheck, either. “It’s a little like a circus act,” she added with a grin. The circus is only furthered by the addition of Cee Lo Green, LMFAO, Nicki Minaj and M.I.A., all of whom will be joining her on the big stage.

But the show must go on, and on Sunday, Feb. 5, it will. Madonna’s appearance will also aid in promoting her forthcoming new album, ’M.D.N.A.’ It’s “the DNA of M,” she explained, sharing that the album title has several meanings. “Well, you’ve heard of this drug that produces euphoric feelings of love? MDMA? Have you ever tried it?” she asked Leno, which got a laugh from the audience. He hadn’t, by the way.

‘M.D.N.A.’ is scheduled for release on March 26 — more than a month after Madonna takes the stage at the Super Bowl — so here’s hoping her butterflies have subsided by the time that date rolls around. While halftime performances may be new to her, albums are something she can certainly do well.

Watch Madonna Talk Super Bowl on ‘Leno’

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