On Jan. 8, 2025, the music world is buzzing as Beyoncé‘s Cowboy Carter has reclaimed its position at the top of the Official Americana chart. This remarkable feat comes on the heels of her electrifying performance during the NFL Christmas Day halftime show, where she showcased her country album to millions of viewers.
After a brief hiatus, Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter has returned to the No. 1 spot, pushing Bruce Springsteen’s compilation album down to No. 2. This marks the sixth nonconsecutive week that Beyoncé has held the top position on the charts, according to Forbes. The album has now spent a total of 40 weeks on the Official Americana chart, with an impressive 39 weeks in the top 10.
Chart performance highlights
- No. 1 on the Official Americana chart
- No. 2 on the Official Country Artists chart
- No. 100 on the Main Albums list
- No. 85 on the Official Album Downloads
These statistics underscore the album’s widespread appeal and Beyoncé’s ability to connect with audiences across genres.
Christmas Day halftime show was game-changer
Beyoncé’s performance during the NFL Christmas Day halftime show was a pivotal moment for both her career and the event itself. The 13-minute set featured live renditions of tracks from Cowboy Carter, including her fresh takes on classics like “Jolene” and “Blackbird,” as well as her collaboration with Post Malone on “Levi Jeans.”
Joining her on stage were a host of rising country stars, including Shaboozey, Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy, and Reyna Roberts, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Family and special guests
In a heartwarming moment, Beyoncé’s daughter, Blue Ivy, made a surprise appearance to dance alongside her mother. The performance also featured notable cameos from various personalities, including:
- Mexican Cowgirl Melanie Rivera
- Bull-riding legend Myrtis Dightman, Jr.
- Miss Rodeo Texas Princess 2004 and 2015, Nikki Woodward
- Ja’Dayia Kursh, the first Black Rodeo Queen in Arkansas
These appearances not only celebrated the spirit of the holidays but also highlighted the rich tapestry of talent within the country music scene.
Impact on NFL viewership
Beyoncé’s performance significantly boosted NFL Christmas Day viewership, attracting over 27 million viewers. This made it the most-watched Christmas Day NFL game on record since 2001, particularly within the coveted 18-34 demographic. Her ability to draw in such a large audience speaks volumes about her influence and the crossover appeal of her music.