Beyoncé’s Netflix Halftime Show: A Mesmerizing 'Cowboy Carter' Celebration

In March, Beyoncé released her groundbreaking album Cowboy Carter, a project born from a deeply personal experience. Reflecting on its inspiration, she explained, “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.”

Many believe she was referencing her 2016 performance with the Chicks at the Country Music Association Awards, a moment emblematic of the resistance she has faced within the Nashville establishment. Despite these challenges, Cowboy Carter has proven to be a triumph. While it was snubbed by the CMA Awards in September, earning no nominations, it dominated the Grammy landscape two months later with 11 nominations, the most for any artist this year.

Beyoncé’s electric halftime performance during the NFL Christmas game in Houston was a celebration of inclusivity and artistic brilliance, countering the exclusivity she once faced. The performance served as the live debut of Cowboy Carter material, showcasing her vision of country music as a space for everyone. Notably, the event was also Netflix’s first venture into NFL broadcasting, marking a significant milestone.

A Grand Spectacle: The Beyoncé Bowl
Dubbed the "Beyoncé Bowl," the 13-minute performance resembled a cinematic masterpiece. The field was alive with a sea of performers—musicians, dancers, and extras—all dressed in dazzling white. This abundance symbolized Beyoncé’s generosity as an artist, sharing the spotlight with a diverse array of collaborators.

Highlights included her moving rendition of the Beatles’ “Blackbird,” accompanied by young Black country artists Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy, and Reyna Roberts. Rising star Shaboozey delivered his rap verse from “Sweet Honey Buckiin’,” a collaboration that boosted his chart-topping hit “A Bar Song (Tipsy).”

Beyoncé also joined a two-step line that featured her 12-year-old daughter, Blue Ivy, exuding maturity and confidence. Post Malone brought his own charm, breaking the all-white dress code in denim for their duet “Levii’s Jeans.” His evident awe mirrored the sentiments of many viewers: “Who else but Beyoncé could create such a spectacle?”

Beyoncé’s NFL Legacy
Beyoncé has a history of owning the NFL stage. Her 2013 Super Bowl halftime show remains one of the most iconic performances of the century. In 2016, she returned with her bold single “Formation,” overshadowing headliner Coldplay. Earlier this year, she announced Cowboy Carter during a Super Bowl commercial, reaffirming her mastery of high-profile moments.

A Celebration of Southern Culture
Beyoncé’s Christmas performance leaned into Southern culture, with stars, stripes, and American flag accessories dominating the visuals. Though less overtly political than some of her previous work, it wasn’t devoid of poignant commentary. During “Ya Ya,” she sang, “Whole lotta red in that white and blue, history can’t be erased,” delivering a subtle yet powerful message.

The performance began with a breathtaking entrance on a white horse, as Beyoncé performed “16 Carriages.” It concluded with a spirited rendition of the chart-topping “Texas Hold ’Em.” “It’s only right that we do ‘Texas Hold ’Em’ for the first time in Houston, Texas, on Christmas,” she told the audience, though the Houston Texans’ 31-2 loss dampened the local spirit.

A Grammy-Worthy Statement
While the setlist focused exclusively on Cowboy Carter, leaving out earlier works like “Daddy Lessons” that connect the album to her broader discography, the performance was an unmistakable Grammy campaign. Coming in the crucial voting window, this lavish showcase underscored Beyoncé’s bid for the elusive Album of the Year award.

With a performance this dazzling and impactful, Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter has positioned itself as a frontrunner. It’s clear: betting on Beyoncé is a smart choice.