Beyoncé’s Halftime Show: A Texas-Sized Statement to the CMAs
Beyoncé’s NFL Performance A Bold Clapback to the CMAs?
Source: Brooke Sutton / Getty
Beyoncé did her big one at the NFL Christmas Day Halftime Show, delivering a jaw-dropping performance at the Texans-Ravens game in her hometown of Houston, Texas. But for many fans, the moment was more than just a celebration of her latest album, Cowboy Carter—it felt like a powerful statement to the Country Music Association (CMA).
This is the first time she performed songs from her 2024 Grammy-nominated album Cowboy Carter live, Beyoncé’s performance was an unforgettable display of artistry and defiance. She opened the show on horseback, riding in while singing “16 Carriages” in a stunning pre-taped segment. Transitioning seamlessly into a live set, she performed her acclaimed cover of The Beatles’ “Blackbird” alongside country artists Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy, and Reyna Roberts, who collaborated with her on the track.
The collaboration and choice of venue were not lost on fans, many of whom saw the performance as a pointed response to Beyoncé’s contentious history with the CMAs.
Beyoncé’s relationship with country music—and the CMAs in particular—has been fraught with tension. In 2016, her performance of the country track “Daddy Lessons” with The Chicks at the CMAs ignited backlash, sparking debates about her place in the genre. Critics questioned her authenticity as a country artist, while fans defended her right to explore a style deeply rooted in Black musical traditions.
Fast forward to 2024, Beyoncé released Cowboy Carter, an album widely regarded as the year’s biggest country release. Despite its critical acclaim and Grammy nomination, the album was completely shut out of the CMA Awards, a move many interpreted as a deliberate snub.
Beyoncé herself has spoken about feeling unwelcome in the country music world. Reflecting on her experience, she shared on Instagram:
“It was born out of an experience that I had years ago where I did not feel welcomed, and it was very clear that I wasn’t.”
With Wednesday’s NFL performance, Beyoncé embraced country music on her own terms. By featuring a diverse lineup of country collaborators and performing in front of a massive national audience, she sent a clear message: her contributions to the genre deserve recognition, with or without the CMA’s validation.
The inclusion of “Blackbird,” a song synonymous with resilience and freedom, added emotional weight to the set. The presence of classic cars and a Texas-inspired aesthetic further underscored her commitment to celebrating Southern culture in all its forms.
For Beyoncé, the performance wasn’t just about spreading holiday cheer; it was about reclaiming space in a genre that has historically excluded Black artists. And if the roaring applause and social media buzz are any indication, she’s doing just that—on her own terms.
Fans on social media were quick to praise the performance, with many interpreting it as a bold clapback to the CMA.
“Beyoncé just gave us a halftime show that was better than any awards show performance. Country music might not welcome her, but the world will,” one fan tweeted.
Another added:
“Beyoncé just proved she doesn’t need the CMAs. The NFL Halftime Show is bigger anyway.”
With Cowboy Carter and her NFL Halftime Show, Beyoncé continues to challenge the boundaries of country music, pushing the genre to reflect the diverse voices that shaped its roots. Whether or not the CMAs ever embrace her, one thing is clear: Beyoncé isn’t waiting for their permission to claim her place in country music history.
Source: Alex Slitz / Getty
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