Jay-Z concert VIPs unaware of Yankee Stadium security chaos

VIP guests and performers at Jay-Z's final 'Extra Innings' concert were unaware of the security breach outside Yankee Stadium until shortly before the delayed show began, according to musical co-director Adam Blackstone.

VIPs remained unaware of crowd surge

Blackstone said those backstage were in a secure area preparing for the performance and had no idea thousands of fans were struggling to enter the Bronx venue.

He said performers including Usher, Teyana Taylor and Jeezy were focused on their pre-show routines until repeated delays prompted questions about what was happening outside.

"I have not experienced anything like that, mainly because, us thankfully being in a secure safe space, we didn't know what was going on outside," Blackstone said.

Security breach delayed concert by hours

The concert was scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. but did not start until 12:15 a.m. after crowds reportedly overwhelmed security checkpoints, forcing Yankee Stadium into lockdown.

Blackstone said Jay-Z prioritised fan safety before deciding to go ahead with the performance once organisers believed the situation was under control.

A source told Page Six that some guests, including rapper Fabolous and Abbott Elementary star Janelle James, were delayed outside before eventually entering the venue.

Star-studded finale ends three-night run

Once the show began, Jay-Z welcomed several surprise guests, including Beyoncé, Rihanna, Usher, Pharrell, Clipse, Swizz Beatz and Teyana Taylor.

Blackstone praised Rihanna's appearance, saying the audience's reaction showed how much fans have missed seeing the singer perform live, as Jay-Z concluded his three-night run at Yankee Stadium.