Beyoncé opened her "Cowboy Carter" world tour this week with multiple shows at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, California. The run marked the initial performances supporting her latest studio album.
The venue hosted large crowds for the tour's debut nights, with reports indicating tens of thousands attended the performances. Beyoncé is scheduled to play a number of dates at SoFi Stadium, setting a record for the artist with the most performances at the location.
For the second show on May 1, the Cowboy Carter setlist saw adjustments from the opening night. The singer added several older hits, including "Irreplaceable," "If I were A Boy," "Single Ladies," and "Love on Top," mixing them with songs from the new album.
The inclusion of fan-favorite throwback songs generated significant reaction online. One fan on social media noted the change "changes the game," allowing an artist to alter their setlist while maintaining the overall show narrative.
Beyond the musical selection, the tour opener featured family appearances. Blue Ivy Carter, the singer's 13-year-old daughter, joined her mother on stage for several moments, including a solo dance during the song "Déjà Vu." Blue Ivy's performances were met with praise from fans and some critics. Variety's Chris Willman wrote she must be "one of the most self-disciplined 13-year-olds in America."
Blue Ivy's prominent role on stage has also reignited discussion around the term "nepo baby," often used to describe children of celebrities entering industries like music or film. A New York magazine cover story from 2022 brought the term to wider public attention.
Music journalist Caroline Sullivan told the BBC that a child's path to fame is influenced by the parent. "It's about how much we like or dislike the parent – Beyoncé is well liked so fans will praise Blue Ivy," Sullivan said. Beyoncé's mother, Tina Knowles, stated her grandchildren are being nurtured but "definitely not pushed into show business."
Beyoncé's youngest daughter, Rumi, also appeared on stage during the show for the song "Protector." Reviewers described the moment as heartwarming. Rolling Stone's Tomas Mier highlighted Rumi's presence as a notable moment.
Other children of famous parents have also recently pursued public performance. Kim Kardashian and Kanye West's daughter, North West, delivered a rap verse on a recent FKA Twigs single. Twigs stated on social media that North West's "energy is so inspiring" and she was "so confident."
The "Cowboy Carter" tour includes dates across the U.S. and Europe, scheduled to conclude in Las Vegas on July 26. Information regarding the availability of Beyoncé Tickets for future shows was not immediately available.
