Jay-Z's Yankee Stadium residency delayed by security breach
A security breach forced Yankee Stadium to close for over two hours during Jay-Z's final concert of a three-day residency, delaying the start until after midnight.
Jay-Z's final performance of his three-day Yankee Stadium residency was delayed after fans forced their way through security checkpoints, prompting a temporary lockdown of the venue. The concert, scheduled to begin at 8 p.m., did not resume until around 10 p.m., and the rapper did not take the stage until after midnight.
Witnesses reported that crowds rushed past security at multiple gates, leading staff to close the entrances and redirect attendees. Rosalynn Glover, who traveled from Atlanta for the event, told WABC, >We got here a little after 8, went to Gate 2, they bum rushed Gate 2. Bum rushed. People went past security, were not checked and got into the stadium. They closed down Gate 2, we went to Gate 4, same thing happened. <
The breach caused uncertainty about whether the show would continue, and some fans expressed frustration while officials assessed the situation. When the performance finally began, Jay-Z addressed the audience, saying, >Let me explain the delay to you guys. It was like 10,000 people outside, and we closed all the doors, and somebody rushed the door. They closed the door for you guys’ safety and everyone’s safety outside. There’s 10,000 people outside; I don’t want to start the music and people get trampled. I’m really sorry for the inconvenience, but I had to make sure everyone was OK. I appreciate your patience.<
Despite the delay, the show proceeded with guest appearances, including Usher and a surprise performance by Beyoncé and their son Blue Ivy. The concert concluded with a fireworks display featuring a Basquiat crown motif. Jay-Z's upcoming dates include shows in London, Paris and Inglewood, California.