Beyonce Bowl: Christmas 2024

It’s a new year, but we have to flashback to the spectacular performance that only an icon like Beyonce can pull off.

With Cowboy Carter receiving seemingly mixed reviews upon its release, Beyoncé’s halftime performance at the Christmas Day Ravens vs. Texas NFL game in Houston delivered a refreshing and spectacular reminder of her artistry. Fully embracing country music with her signature flair, Queen Bey turned the event into a masterpiece of culture, style, and talent.

The excitement began with Beyoncé’s dramatic entrance, riding an enchanting white horse into the stadium. Dressed in an all-white feather coat, cowboy hat, diamond choker, earrings, and boots, she was the epitome of Texas glam adorned with a cowboy carter sash. Guided by a bandana masked cowboy, she opened with “16 Carriages,” a beautiful ballad amplified by soft bursts of fire and an emotional crescendo as she nodded to the beat. Her entrance was a cultural sight to see featuring a fleet of white old-school Texas-style cars, and a group of cowboys and cowgirls featuring Melanie Rivera, Nikki Woodard, Ja’Dayia Kursh, and Myrtis Dightman, Jr.

From there, she transitioned into “Blackbird,” still passing strategic and cultural influences including a group of 4 guitarists, an angelic chorus, and a section of violinist before joining Black female country artists Tanner Adell, Tiera Kennedy, Reyna Roberts, and Brittney Spencer also featured on Blackbird. This moment was not only musically moving but a powerful nod to the representation and the elevation of black voices in country music.  

As she approached the main stage, Beyoncé shed her coat to reveal a white western jeweled print leotard with coordinating chaps, exuding the Cowboy Carter persona. She launched into “Yaya,” a multi-genre inspired song from Cowboy Carter, backed by her dancers.  The energy intensified as Texas Southern University’s Ocean of Soul band joined her for a dynamic HBCU band performance of “My House,” accompanied by her unforgettable dancers, and notably her daughter, Blue Ivy.

The show seamlessly flowed into “Riverdance and Spaghetti,” with Beyonce hitting her iconic walk and strutting down the stage. She followed with “Sweet Honey Buckiin,” an energetic collab with Shaboozey, who matched her dazzling style in an all-white ensemble, starring a beautiful long white coat and cowboy hat. After their fun and lively performance, Beyoncé stepping off briefly to let Shaboozey take the spotlight before returning with the anticipated “Buckiin” dance break.

The crowd roared with excitement as Post Malone joined her onstage for “Levii Jeans,” performed in front of a denim-covered truck. Their chemistry was electric, showcasing a blend of genres and styles that felt both innovative and nostalgic.

The finale began with “Jolene,” where the field transformed into a nostalgic hometown parade. The parade being led by band staples including banner holders, flag girls, and pageant queens, while Beyoncé rode in a convertible, embodying nostalgic hometown pride.

For her final song, “Texas Hold’EM,” Beyoncé expressed heartfelt gratitude for performing in her hometown. In a heightened moment, she was lifted into the air, concluding with a playful “bang!” gesture that released a “Beyang” flag,reminiscent of the classic toy gun gag. As she was lowered, Beyoncé pumped both fists triumphantly, radiating pride and gratitude for the opportunity to perform on such a significant stage.

The all-white aesthetic, the stunning production, and Beyoncé’s unmatched ability to command a crowd made this performance one for the books. Angelic yet bold, traditional yet innovative, it was unequivocally Queen Bey perfection.

Houston, your hometown star delivered! She did that!

Photos: Courtesey of Parkwood Entertainment

Beyoncé's Wardrobe (Courtesey of Netflix.com) : Custom Look in collaboration with Lindsey James Show Clothing Earrings, necklaces and ring: Lorraine Schwartz Boots Christian Louboutin Hat: Custom ASN Hats Feather Coat: Archive Roberto Cavalli