In a holiday spectacle at NRG Stadium in Houston, Beyoncé delivered an unforgettable halftime performance during the NFL’s Christmas Day game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Houston Texans. With the Ravens leading 17-2 at halftime, Beyoncé, a native of Texas, showcased her latest work from the “Cowboy Carter” album, marking its first live performances.
The show began with Beyoncé dramatically entering on horseback, singing “16 Carriages” while passing through a tunnel adorned with sparklers and vintage cars, all under the banner of “Cowboy Carter.” Dressed in an all-white ensemble complete with a cowboy hat and a “Cowboy Carter” sash, she set the tone for a performance steeped in country charm.
Look at that horse. pic.twitter.com/2AtteP5lZk
— BEYONCÉ (@Beyonce) December 25, 2024
True to the buzz around special guests, Beyoncé did not disappoint. For “Blackbiird,” she was joined by Brittney Spencer, Reyna Roberts, Tiera Kennedy, and Tanner Adell, adding rich harmonies to the song. The middle of the field saw her daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, dancing during “YA YA,” highlighting a family moment. The guest appearances continued with Shaboozey on “Sweet Honey Buckin” and Post Malone for “Levii’s Jeans,” bringing their unique styles to the stage.
The setlist was as follows:
- “16 Carriages”
- “Blackbiird” featuring Brittney Spencer, Reyna Roberts, Tiera Kennedy, and Tanner Adell
- “YA YA” with Blue Ivy Carter
- “My House”
- “SPAGHETTII”
- “Sweet Honey Buckin” featuring Shaboozey
- “Levii’s Jeans” featuring Post Malone
- “Jolene” with a Dolly Parton voiceover
- “Texas Hold ‘Em”
“Cowboy Carter” represents Beyoncé’s venture into country music, featuring collaborations with country icons and emerging artists like Dolly Parton, Miley Cyrus, Willie Nelson, Linda Martell, and more. This halftime show was her first NFL performance since her memorable Super Bowl appearances in 2013 (Super Bowl XLVII) and 2016 (Super Bowl 50).
The performance culminated with Beyoncé’s stage lifting her aloft as she wished the audience a Merry Christmas, blending her musical prowess with the holiday spirit in a show that will be remembered as one of the standout moments of NFL Christmas Gameday.