Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour encountered significant disruptions during its Chicago leg this week, as severe weather forced a delayed start to her May 15 performance at Soldier Field. Meanwhile, logistical challenges tied to an ongoing transit strike in New Jersey threaten to impact upcoming shows at MetLife Stadium later this month.
Weather Halts Chicago Show, Prompts Safety Measures
Chicago’s unseasonably high temperatures and severe thunderstorms led Soldier Field officials to postpone the concert’s opening night by several hours, according to local media reports. Attendees were instructed to shelter in place starting at 5 p.m., with seating access delayed until 9:15 p.m. and floor sections opening at 9:45 p.m. Stadium representatives emphasized their commitment to safety, stating, “Our priority is ensuring guest security. We have robust protocols for severe weather during major events, ready to deploy if necessary.”
Despite torrential rain and high winds captured in footage by ABC7 Chicago, fans remained steadfast. “I’d wait through a tornado for Beyoncé—she’s a once-in-a-lifetime artist,” one attendee remarked. Forecasts suggest improved conditions for her remaining Chicago performances on May 18 and 19.
East Coast Tour Dates Complicated by Transit Strike
As the tour prepares to shift to New Jersey, a strike by NJ Transit train engineers, which began May 16 after failed contract negotiations, could hinder travel to Beyoncé’s five MetLife Stadium shows between May 22 and 29. The labor dispute, unresolved for six years, has already disrupted transportation for Shakira’s recent concerts at the venue, prompting organizers to advise carpooling, rideshares, or Coach bus services. MetLife Stadium warned of potential post-event delays exceeding two hours and surge pricing for rideshares.
Tour Background and Critical Acclaim
The Cowboy Carter tour supports Beyoncé’s genre-defying album of the same name, which earned three Grammy Awards in February, including Album of the Year and Best Country Album. The project features collaborations such as “II Most Wanted” with Miley Cyrus, which won Best Country Duo/Group Performance. This marks Beyoncé’s first major tour since 2023’s record-breaking Renaissance World Tour, documented in the theatrical release Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé.
As the tour progresses, organizers and local authorities continue navigating unforeseen challenges to ensure both safety and accessibility for attendees.
