Beyoncé Stuns at ‘Cowboy Carter’ Tour Opener with Powerful Ode to Country Music

March 29, 2025 – Beyoncé kicked off her highly anticipated Cowboy Carter World Tour in Houston last night with a triumphant celebration of Black country music, delivering a show-stopping performance and a passionate speech about reclaiming her roots.
A Night of Bold Statements
Before launching into “Texas Hold ‘Em,” the Grammy-winning icon paused to address the crowd:

“They tried to tell me I didn’t belong in country music. But honey, country is in my blood. It’s in the stories of my ancestors, the steel guitars in Houston’s Fifth Ward, and the soul of every Black cowboy who built this culture.”

The declaration—met with roaring applause—referenced the backlash to her 2024 country album Cowboy Carter, which shattered genre barriers and topped charts.
Highlights From the Show
Rodeo Spectacle: The stage transformed into a neon-lit honky-tonk, complete with mechanical bulls and a full fiddle section.
Surprise Guests: Houston rap legend Bun B joined for “16 Carriages (Remix)”, while rising Black country artist Shaboozey appeared for “Sweet Buckin’ Horse.”

Fashion Moment: Beyoncé cycled through looks, including a crystal-embellished cowboy hat and a fringe jumpsuit by Black designer LaQuan Smith.
Why It Matters

The tour solidifies Beyoncé’s mission to diversify country music, spotlighting Black contributions to the genre. Industry analysts note her influence has already spurred:
✔ A 200% spike in Black artists signed to Nashville labels since 2024.
✔ Mainstream embrace of hybrid “country soul” sounds.
What’s Next?

The Cowboy Carter Tour heads to Atlanta next, with rumors of a Dolly Parton cameo. As Beyoncé put it last night: “This ain’t a phase—it’s a reckoning.