Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” Tour Kicks Off in New Jersey

“This is not Texas,” Beyoncé states at the start of “Texas Hold.” Yet, the atmosphere felt distinctly Texan at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, during the opening show of her “Cowboy Carter” tour on Thursday night.

Although Beyoncé couldn’t change the unseasonably chilly, rainy weather, her star power was evident among the crowd adorned in cowboy hats, boots, and other Western attire.

While artists like Kenny Chesney, Luke Combs, and Morgan Wade may have brought their own brand of country to the region, this performance showcased a different, more inclusive side of the genre. A celebration of her groundbreaking “Cowboy Carter” album, which notably won a Grammy Award in February, this concert proved that Beyoncé can command a stadium just as effectively as she did on her previous “Renaissance” and “Formation” tours.

Quickly setting the tone, she dove right into the opener, “American Reciem,” making it clear she’s not holding back. “They said I spoke ‘too country’ / And the rejection came, but I said it wasn’t in ‘country’,” she sang, sharing her journey with the audience.

This reinvented take on country, often intricate and exploratory, did not shy away from the genre’s roots. During her performance of “Daddy Lessons,” a song that has carried significance since its debut at the 2016 Country Music Association Awards, she reclaimed those roots on her terms.

As she transcended genres, Beyoncé invoked powerful imagery, transitioning from “Freedom” to her rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Her symbolism—often enveloped in the American flag—was a poignant reflection of her vision of America.

The singer introduced intimate, heartfelt tracks from “Cowboy Carter,” such as “Alligator Tears” and “Just for Fan,” while also delighting fans with a Destiny’s Child-inspired folk segment and flamenco dancers.

The performance also included playful moments, like riding a mechanical bull during “Tyrant” and lifting a giant horseshoe while covering Dolly Parton’s “Jolene.” The New York crowd especially erupted when footage of her lighting cigars near the Statue of Liberty appeared on the screens.

Beyoncé’s nearly three-hour spectacle didn’t solely focus on her latest work; she revisited classics like “Crazy in Love” and “Single Ladies (Put A Ring on It),” much to fans’ delight, including powerful renditions of “Irreplaceable” and “If I Were a Boy.”

The evening also featured her daughters, 13-year-old Blue Ivy and 7-year-old Rumi, joining her on stage. Rumi, adorned in a white fur coat, certainly captured attention, while Blue Ivy showcased her own dance skills during a lively segment.

Indeed, while she embraced country elements, Beyoncé’s presence as a pop diva was unmistakable.