On December 25, 2024, during the NFL Christmas Gameday matchup between the Houston Texans and the Baltimore Ravens at Houston’s NRG Stadium, Beyoncé delivered a spectacular halftime performance that captivated audiences both in the stadium and worldwide via Netflix’s live stream.
The show marked the live debut of tracks from her acclaimed album “Cowboy Carter,” released earlier in the year.
Beyoncé’s entrance was nothing short of dramatic as she rode into the stadium on a white horse, donning a white-feathered gown and a western hat, embodying the album’s country-inspired themes. The performance seamlessly blended elements of country and pop, showcasing Beyoncé’s versatility as an artist.
A standout moment was the appearance of her 12-year-old daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, who joined her mother for a choreographed line dance to the track “Texas Hold ‘Em,” with a slight lyric change—”Then spin me in the middle, Blue, I can’t read your mind,” according to People. This mother-daughter collaboration added a heartfelt touch to the high-energy performance.
The show also featured surprise guest appearances by artists Shaboozey and Post Malone, who collaborated with Beyoncé on “Sweet Honey Buckiin'” and “Levii’s Jeans,” respectively. These collaborations were met with enthusiasm, further elevating the performance’s dynamic range.
Critics and fans alike praised the halftime show for its innovative fusion of genres and Beyoncé’s commanding stage presence.
The Guardian described the performance as a “country ho-ho-ho-down [that] is playful and infectious” highlighting its festive spirit and Beyoncé’s ability to captivate a diverse audience.
This event marked Beyoncé’s return to the NFL halftime stage, following her memorable performances during the Super Bowl in 2013 and 2016. The collaboration with Netflix for the live stream was a notable first, expanding the accessibility of the performance to a global audience.
The live stream was executed without technical issues, quickly becoming the second-most popular live title on Netflix to date, according to CBS News. The performance’s success is expected to bolster Netflix’s ventures into live sports broadcasting and similar large-scale events.
In addition to the live performance, Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” album has been a commercial success, with tracks like “Texas Hold ‘Em” achieving significant chart success.The album’s blend of country and pop elements has been praised for its innovation and has contributed to Beyoncé’s continued relevance in the evolving music industry.
For those who missed the live event, the performance is available for streaming on Netflix, allowing fans to relive the memorable show. As anticipation builds for Beyoncé’s future projects, this performance serves as a testament to her enduring impact on the music industry and popular culture.
