Beyoncé Kicks Off the Cowboy Carter Tour in Style
A Grand Opening at SoFi Stadium
Beyoncé launched her highly anticipated Cowboy Carter Tour at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, captivating fans with a dazzling performance filled with intricate choreography and stylish flair. Clad in a striking white, fringed leather outfit topped with a cowboy hat, she treated the audience to an array of live debuts from her latest album, Cowboy Carter, along with special appearances from her daughters, Blue Ivy and Rumi Carter, and a heartfelt cover of “Before I Let Go” by Maze featuring Frankie Beverly.
Setting the Scene
Before taking the stage, a massive electronic screen illuminated the venue with an American flag, accompanied by a speaker tower marked with the letters “KNTRY,” representing Cowboy Carter’s fictional radio station. Merchandise featured creative designs, including an image of Beyoncé riding a mechanical horse, paired with the empowering slogan, “Never ask permission for something that already belongs to you.”
Opening Numbers and Tribute
The concert commenced with “Ameriican Requiem” and “Blackbiird,” honoring Black women pioneers in rock, folk, and country music. Beyoncé then transitioned into a unique interpretation of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” reminiscent of Jimi Hendrix’s iconic Woodstock performance. During “Freedom,” visuals displayed Beyoncé in dreadlocks, smoking a cigar, adorned with a sash proclaiming “the reclamation of America.”
Family Cameos and Interactive Moments
Blue Ivy joined her mother for the “Formation” choreography and stayed on stage for several songs, including a rendition of “America Has a Problem,” which featured an interlude seemingly sampling Death Grips’ “You Might Think He Loves You….” Rumi also made a surprise appearance during “Protector,” bringing an adorable spontaneity to the performance as she waved excitedly, prompting laughter and a warm hug from Beyoncé.
Thematic Elements and Narrative
While the setlist featured a mix of Renaissance tracks and classic hits, the Cowboy Carter theme dominated the performance. A mechanical bull backstage added to the narrative of Beyoncé as a Wild West outlaw, overcoming feelings of alienation and asserting her rightful place. The show reached a thrilling climax with a video shootout where she confronted an older, white cowboy, with bullets harmlessly bouncing off her. The final encore, “Amen,” was performed in front of a Statue of Liberty adorned with braided hair, symbolizing empowerment and resilience.
About Cowboy Carter and Tour Details
Beyoncé’s latest album, Cowboy Carter, is the follow-up to 2022’s Renaissance and was released last March as part of a planned trilogy. The album achieved remarkable success, becoming her eighth No. 1 and making her the first Black woman to debut at No. 1 on the Top Country Albums chart. It garnered her three awards at the 2025 Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, Best Country Album, and Best Country Duo/Group Performance.
This tour marks Beyoncé’s seventh headline tour, following her monumental Renaissance World Tour, which spanned 56 dates worldwide and featured surprise guest appearances from artists such as Kendrick Lamar and Megan Thee Stallion. The tour was also immortalized in the successful documentary concert film, Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé.
Upcoming Tour Dates
The Cowboy Carter Tour continues with a second night in Inglewood on May 1, followed by stops in New Jersey, Chicago, Houston, Atlanta, and Washington, D.C. The tour will then make its way across the Atlantic to European cities, including London and Paris.
Setlist
- Ameriican Requiem
- Blackbird
- The Star-spangled Banner
- Freedom
- Ya Ya / Why Don’t You Love Me
- America Has a Problem
- Spaghettii
- Formation
- My House
- Diva
- Alliigator Tears
- Just for Fun
- Protector
- Flamenco
- Desert Eagle
- Riiverdance
- II Hands II Heaven
- Sweet ★ Honey ★ Buckiin’ / Pure/Honey / Summer Renaissance
- Jolene
- Daddy Lessons
- Bodyguard
- II Most Wanted
- Cuff It
- Tyrant
- Thique
- Levii’s Jeans
- Daughter
- I’m That Girl
- Cozy
- Alien Superstar
- Texas Hold ‘Em
- Crazy in Love
- Heated
- Before I Let Go
- 16 Carriages
- Amen
Conclusion
Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Tour promises to be a groundbreaking journey through music, culture, and empowerment. With her signature style and commanding stage presence, she not only entertains but also inspires, making her performances a celebration of identity and resilience. As the tour progresses, fans can expect to witness an unforgettable spectacle that combines artistry with powerful messages.
FAQs
When does the Cowboy Carter Tour continue?
The Cowboy Carter Tour continues on May 1, with a second show in Inglewood, California, followed by various cities across the United States and Europe.
What is the theme of the Cowboy Carter Tour?
The tour presents Beyoncé as a Wild West outlaw, emphasizing themes of empowerment, reclaiming identity, and overcoming alienation.
What songs can fans expect to hear during the tour?
Fans can look forward to a mix of new tracks from Cowboy Carter, alongside classic hits from Beyoncé’s extensive catalog.
How has Cowboy Carter been received critically?
The album has been critically acclaimed and has achieved significant commercial success, making Beyoncé the first Black woman to debut at No. 1 on the Top Country Albums chart.
Will there be any special guest appearances during the tour?
While special guest appearances are not guaranteed, Beyoncé’s previous tours have featured surprise performances from renowned artists, so fans should stay tuned for potential surprises.
