A group of hooded figures adorned in gold materialize at the peak of the stage. The initial chords of the gospel hymn ‘American Requiem’ resonate throughout Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, followed by a lengthy pause, the anticipation escalating. Beyoncé steps forward, stunning in a decorated white Versace outfit. This marks the beginning of her 27-track album ‘COWBOY CARTER’, which lends its name to this record-setting tour. The choice is perfectly fitting. “Do you hear me?” the Texan artist sings, challenging her entranced audience to engage with her in this moment. This is the essence of Black Southern hospitality.
The energy and depth of the opening segment establishes the mood for an evening filled with power, anger, defiance, but also joy, overlooked stories, and optimism. Divided into chapters, with Western-themed transitions that offer a break from the sensory overload— teeming with hints of an unfolding visual narrative that ties together a three-act structure (could Act III: The Rock Album be on the horizon?)—this concert experience brings to life the rich auditory world central to the Grammy-winning Album of the Year, ‘COWBOY CARTER’.
For a performance infused with Americana and the complexities of a flawed American experience, one wonders how it resonates with a predominantly British audience. What aids this connection is the authenticity of the presentation. Beyoncé expresses her frustration at being sidelined by traditionalists through her recent venture into country music, presenting her take as punk, even anarchic. It is raw, genuine, and distinctly hers: from the intricate rap of ‘America Has A Problem’ to the brisk urbano outcries of ‘Spaghetti’ and to the euphoric tech-house interpretations of the standout track ‘My House’—the stage engulfed in pools of fiery red while Beyoncé's displeasure is palpable.
The show's focus on immersive scenery is evident in the cutting-edge stage design: a screen with a carved pyramid illustrating different perspectives; synchronized dancers, a band, and background singers surrounding the central figure, along with Blue Ivy’s dance segments that feel less like brief appearances and more like a rising star claiming her place as a successor to the pop throne. Beyoncé's narrative is woven into the stage decor, featuring a futuristic salon design that nods to her mother’s hair salon history in Houston and pays tribute to the ‘Bills Bills Bills’ music video, incorporating the famous hairography that has become a staple of Beyoncé's performances. A special highlight is the mechanical bull, glimmering in gold, spinning and jerking the star during a remixed rendition of ‘Tyrant’, combined with the dramatic flair of ‘Haunted’.
Beyond the theatrics, Beyoncé can simplify the performance to just her and the most powerful tool in pop: her voice. On the roots rock anthem ‘Ya Ya’, she growls and transitions effortlessly between vocal ranges (few can match the stamina and strength required for her extended performances), while the haunting ‘Flamenco’ contrasts with its subtlety, Beyoncé's tone light, sweet, pure, and filled with emotion. ‘Daughter’, designed to be the pinnacle of the show, blends vocal drama and performance art: although her radiant LED stained glass dress serves as a stunning visual, it’s the operatic lament that truly captivates and silences the audience.
Even the downpours did not hinder the star's energy in a nearly three-hour show. This passionate, exhilarating spectacle further reinforced what we recognized during the Renaissance tour's stop in London two years ago: when it comes to a performer who reveals their essence, vulnerabilities, and inherent talent on stage, Beyoncé remains unparalleled.
The Cowboy Carter tour continues in London on June 7th, 10th, 12th, 14th, and 16th.
Words: Shahzaib Hussain
Photo Credit: Julian Dakdouk & Andrew White/Parkwood Entertainment
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A group of cloaked figures adorned in gold emerges at the sharp peak of the stage. The initial notes of the gospel hymn 'American Requiem' resonate throughout.