During the highly anticipated opening of Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour, a powerful message illuminated the massive screen: “Never ask permission for something that already belongs to you.” This unapologetic mantra perfectly encapsulated Beyoncé’s approach to what some critics have labeled her “country foray.” Instead of merely reclaiming a genre, she boldly celebrated the Black origins of country culture and its rich evolution. Her three-hour performance at SoFi Stadium was a spectacle that transcended genre limitations and showcased her unique artistry.
Beyoncé's performance was a multi-layered experience that reminded the audience of her trailblazing journey in the music industry. Dressed in a stunning white leather ensemble by Mugler and a matching cowboy hat, she expressed gratitude to those who came before her, including Black country pioneers like Linda Martell. “Thank you for giving me the creative liberty to challenge myself,” she stated, setting the tone for an unforgettable night filled with country-tinged songs from Cowboy Carter, intertwined with callbacks to her ballroom-inspired album, Renaissance.
The Cowboy Carter show was more than just a country spectacle; it was a celebration of Beyoncé’s versatility. Right from the start, she showcased her signature moves and charisma, effortlessly blending country elements with her iconic style. The show featured banjos and fiddles during tracks like “Texas Hold ‘Em” and “II Most Wanted,” while Beyoncé and her dancers donned chaps, cowboy hats, and oversized belt buckles. Yet, at its core, it was a Beyoncé-caliber performance, supported by the incredible choreography of over 24 backup dancers.
Visually, the concert was a feast for the eyes, set against a backdrop that evoked the Wild West. Beyoncé portrayed an “outsider” in a world where she was never meant to belong, only to shatter that narrative in a climactic gun duel, symbolically defeating an older, white cowboy. This scene poignantly echoed her exclusion from the Country Music Association Awards, highlighting the systemic barriers within Nashville's predominantly white industry.
The performance was rich with patriotic themes, layered with deeper symbolic meaning. Beyoncé opened with “American Requiem” and transitioned into a haunting rendition of the national anthem, inspired by Jimi Hendrix's iconic Woodstock performance. This choice underscored America’s turbulent history, serving as both tribute and reminder. Her track “Freedom,” associated with Kamala Harris’ 2024 presidential campaign, resonated powerfully with the audience, reinforcing her message of resilience.
Throughout the concert, family played a pivotal role. Blue Ivy, Beyoncé’s eldest daughter, joined her in several performances, showcasing seamless choreography and undeniable talent. In a heartwarming moment, her younger daughter Rumi Carter took the stage during “Protector,” delighting the crowd with her charm. The performance was not just a celebration of Beyoncé's career but also a tribute to her family legacy.
Beyoncé made it clear that the spirit of Renaissance remains alive in Cowboy Carter. She performed fan favorites like “Cuff It,” “Heated,” and “Thique,” while also nodding to her previous work with elements like a robotic mechanical bull. This fusion of past and present showcased her ability to innovate while honoring her roots.
Standout moments included Beyoncé’s playful rendition of “Diva,” where she humorously mirrored a viral TikTok video. The energy soared during “Thique,” which cleverly incorporated Destiny’s Child's “Bills, Bills, Bills.” Fans were treated to a thrilling rendition of “Daddy Lessons” as Beyoncé rode a pink horseshoe across the stage, marking her first live performance of the track since 2016. The grand finale featured a remix of “Texas Hold ‘Em” that smoothly transitioned into her classic hit “Crazy in Love,” leaving the audience in awe.
To close the show, Beyoncé soared around the stadium in a flying vintage car adorned with an American flag, leading the crowd in a sing-along of “16 Carriages.” For her encore, she wore a gown emblazoned with the U.S. flag, performing “Amen” against a backdrop of a masked Statue of Liberty with braided hair. This thoughtful spectacle conveyed the profound messages she aimed to share through her music and the monumental Cowboy Carter album.
Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour continues with four additional shows in Los Angeles, starting on Thursday, May 1. Following her Los Angeles performances, she will head to Chicago and New Jersey, before taking her show to London and Paris. The tour will eventually return stateside, with concerts scheduled in Houston, D.C., Atlanta, and concluding in Las Vegas this July. Don’t miss your chance to witness this extraordinary tour!
