Beyoncé debuted her monumental “Cowboy Carter” world tour at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium, marking the start of a 32-date global journey across nine cities. The electrifying performance offered fans their first live glimpse into the album’s universe, released in March 2024 as a bold celebration of country music’s African American roots. The project features reimagined classics like “Blackbird” and “Jolene” alongside collaborations with Miley Cyrus, Post Malone, Shaboozey, and others.
Originally scheduled for February, the tour was postponed due to California’s wildfire crisis. Beyoncé first teased “Cowboy Carter” Live during a Christmas Day NFL halftime show at the Texans-Ravens game, where she performed a medley with Shaboozey and Post Malone. The event drew 27 million U.S. viewers on Netflix, amplifying anticipation for the tour.
Breaking Barriers and Grammy Triumphs
Released just a month after surprise singles “Texas Hold ‘Em” and “16 Carriages,” “Cowboy Carter” shattered records: “Texas Hold ‘Em” topped Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, making Beyoncé the first Black woman to achieve this feat. At the 2024 Grammys, she clinched three awards out of 11 nominations—including her historic first Album of the Year win.
“I’m overwhelmed with gratitude,” she reflected during her acceptance speech. “This recognition honors years of dedication and the incredible artists who collaborated on this journey.”
Live “Cowboy Carter” Setlist Unveiled
The tour’s opening night featured a dynamic mix of tracks from the album and fan favorites, updated live as the show progressed:
Ameriican Requiiem, Blackbird (with America the Beautiful outro), Freedom, Ya Ya, Oh Louisiana interlude, America Has a Problem, Spaghetti, Formation, My House, Diva, Alligator Tears, Just For Fun, Protector, Flamenco, Desert Eagle, Riiverdance, II Hands II Heaven, a medley blending Sweet Honey Buckiin’, Summer Renaissance, and Pure/Honey, Jolene, Daddy Lessons, Bodyguard, II Most Wanted (snippet), Cuff It, Tyrant, Thique, Levi’s Jeans, Daughter, I’m That Girl, Cozy, Alien Superstar, Texas Hold ‘Em, Crazy in Love, Heated, Before I Let Go, 16 Carriages, Amen
Embracing the “Cowboy Carter” aesthetic, Beyoncé dazzled in outfits that blended rodeo-inspired flair with showstopping glamour. Her wardrobe featured intricate fringe details, glittering crystal embellishments, and bold nods to Americana—think patriotic star-and-stripe motifs reimagined with haute couture precision.
Blue Ivy and Rumi Carter Shine Alongside Beyoncé in Tour Highlights
Blue Ivy Carter took center stage during multiple “Cowboy Carter” performances, including “YA YA,” “America Has a Problem,” “Formation,” “My House,” and “Protector,” showcasing her elevated role compared to her cameos on the Renaissance tour. Meanwhile, her younger sister Rumi Carter made her live debut alongside Blue Ivy during “Protector,” marking her first-ever appearance onstage with Beyoncé.
The heartfelt moment culminated in a family tribute montage displayed onscreen after the song, featuring candid snapshots of Beyoncé with all three of her children—Blue Ivy, Rumi, and Sir—eliciting cheers from the audience.
