Stage

In an article entitled "Born to Entertain", Knowles, alongside classic and contemporary entertainers, was complimented for her stage performances. Amidst notable appearances, however, Knowles often receives criticisms. Pareles says, "Beyoncé can't keep up with the complex rhythms; onstage, she kept falling behind." Her performance at the former U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant's tomb on July 4, 2003 was cited as lasciviously choreographed; Grant's descendants in attendance had mixed reaction to it.

In 2006, Knowles introduced her all-female tour band Suga Mama. In the months prior to the release of B'Day, she held an audition among female musicians across the United States, which concluded in June. The performing ensemble includes bassists, drummers, guitarists, horn players, keyboardists and percussionists. They debuted in public at the 2006 BET Awards and they re-appeared in the music video for "Irreplaceable" and "Green Light". The band backed up Knowles during her 2007 The Beyoncé Experience world concert tour, and, in addition, they have appeared in small shows wherever Knowles has performed.