Grammy-winning icon and Texas native, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, stepped onto the stage at Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign rally on Friday, delivering a high-energy endorsement in front of a crowd at Shell Energy Stadium in Houston. Joined by Destiny’s Child bandmate Kelly Rowland, Beyoncé urged unity, called for change, and emphasized the significance of the upcoming election, especially concerning reproductive rights.
A Call for Unity and Progress
“H-Town! We are so happy to be standing here on this stage as proud Texan women, supporting and celebrating the one and only Vice President Kamala Harris,” Beyoncé said, rallying the crowd. She emphasized the critical need for unity in America, especially with reproductive rights under fire, and encouraged attendees to “sing a new song” in support of Harris. Addressing her personal concerns as a mother, she underscored her support for a future where freedoms are protected.
“I’m not here as a celebrity. I’m here as a mother, a mother who cares deeply about the world my children and all of our children live in—a world where we have the freedom to control our bodies,” Beyoncé declared. “We must vote, and we need you. It’s time for America to sing a new song.”
Beyoncé’s Political Message Resounds with Texans
The rally theme of unity and reproductive freedom aligned with Harris’ campaign stance, which calls for a progressive, inclusive future. The event’s energy reflected both Harris and Beyoncé’s connection to Texas, a state where reproductive rights are being hotly debated.
While Beyoncé didn’t perform at the rally, her anthem “Freedom” has become a hallmark of Harris’ campaign, making frequent appearances since Harris adopted it as her campaign theme song in July. Beyoncé’s team has taken legal action to prevent the song’s use by opposing campaigns, emphasizing her commitment to Harris and the campaign’s vision.
Kelly Rowland, Willie Nelson, and Other Icons Join Harris in Support
Kelly Rowland, another proud Texan and Destiny’s Child alum, echoed the sentiment of unity, urging the audience not to backslide on hard-won freedoms.
“We cannot go backwards, guys,” Rowland said. “Too many people have died for us to have our freedom… We’ve got to show up and do our part.”
Texas legend Willie Nelson joined the rally, performing crowd favorites like “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys” and “On the Road Again,” asking the crowd if they’re “ready to say Madame President.” His performance was a nod to Harris’ efforts to build on Texas’ cultural roots and bridge them with her forward-thinking platform.
High-Profile Endorsements Bolster Harris’ Campaign
Harris has garnered support from a variety of artists, including Eminem, who rallied for her in Detroit, and Bruce Springsteen, who endorsed her in Atlanta. Their presence aims to boost Harris’ outreach across key demographics as Election Day approaches. Beyoncé’s involvement, however, was particularly impactful for the “K-Hive” and her own fanbase, the “Beyhive,” both of whom attended the event in large numbers to support their icons and Harris’ vision for a more equitable America.
Harris’ Message to Supporters: A Call for Action
Polling shows Harris and Donald Trump are neck and neck, each capturing about 48% of the popular vote, according to recent New York Times and Siena College data. Harris continues to rally in key swing states under her “When We Vote We Win” initiative, targeting young and diverse voter groups.
“We know freedom is not to be given,” Harris said, urging the crowd to take a stand on critical issues, from reproductive rights to racial equality. “We must be loud. We must organize. We must mobilize. We must energize.”
Harris’ speech resonated with voters concerned about recent abortion restrictions in Texas, which have led to spikes in maternal and infant mortality. She emphasized that reproductive rights and inclusive values are central to her vision for America, with Beyoncé’s rallying cry for unity underscoring the need for collective action.
Bridging Generations and Building Momentum
The rally served as a powerful reminder of Harris’ goal to engage younger, more progressive voters and build a coalition across Texas and beyond. Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland’s presence was emblematic of the cultural shift Harris aims to represent, and the event left a lasting impact on supporters.