“Call Me Country: Beyoncé & Nashville’s Renaissance” shines a spotlight on Beyoncé’s groundbreaking foray into country music and the broader conversation it ignites about the genre’s identity. As Beyoncé made history by topping Billboard’s country music charts, the documentary delves into the implications of her success and the challenges it poses to the traditional norms of the industry.
The documentary, produced by the CNN FlashDocs unit and available for streaming exclusively on Max in the US, explores Nashville’s role as the epicenter of country music and the ongoing evolution within the genre. Against the backdrop of Beyoncé’s landmark album “Cowboy Carter” and its chart-topping single “Texas Hold ‘Em,” the film delves into the cultural and social dynamics shaping contemporary country music.
Examining the intersections of race, gender, and representation in the genre, “Call Me Country: Beyoncé & Nashville’s Renaissance” confronts the complexities of inclusivity and diversity in an industry historically dominated by straight, white men. With the rise of artists like Beyoncé and Lil Nas X challenging the status quo, the documentary explores how Nashville’s Black artists have long been trailblazers in reshaping the landscape of country music.
As the documentary sparks conversations about the definition and boundaries of country music, viewers are invited to delve into the cultural significance of Beyoncé’s crossover success and its implications for the future of the genre. Through interviews, archival footage, and insightful commentary, “Call Me Country: Beyoncé & Nashville’s Renaissance” offers a thought-provoking exploration of music, identity, and change in the heart of country music.
