Kamala Harris supporters in Houston were buzzing with excitement on Friday night, waiting over 12 hours to see Beyoncé perform at a rally for the presidential hopeful. With Harris’s campaign frequently using Bey’s hit song “Freedom” in rallies and ads, the anticipation was high for the superstar to deliver a live performance. But, instead of hitting those powerhouse notes, Beyoncé delivered a heartfelt speech endorsing Harris.
Flanked by Destiny’s Child member Kelly Rowland, Beyoncé stood center stage in a sleek, black tailored suit and addressed the crowd with a simple, “I’m not here as a celebrity. I’m not here as a politician.” She went on to frame her support for Harris as coming from her role as a mother, highlighting her concerns for the future and advocating for reproductive rights. “Imagine our daughters growing up seeing what’s possible with no ceilings, no limitations,” she said, her words echoing the themes of empowerment and unity she’s known for.
When Kamala Harris took the stage and Beyonce exited without performing, many of her attendees looked shocked and confused. Maybe she was closing the event? They sat through the Vice President’s speech, but that was it. Beyonce had left the building.
While some fans were a little let down by the lack of a live performance, Beyoncé’s passionate endorsement still brought the crowd to its feet. She closed her remarks with a memorable line, calling for change: “It’s time for America to sing a new song.”
It wasn’t the concert many had expected, but it was a powerful moment of celebrity activism in the midst of a crucial campaign. And it’s safe to say that while the fans didn’t hear “Freedom” live, the message of freedom rang loud and clear.
Since Harris supporters are still feeling a bit down, we’ll provide this 2013 Superbowl performance to cheer you up.