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Beyoncé continues to redefine boundaries in popular music genres, following her exploration of Renaissance and dance/house music. Her upcoming eighth studio album, Cowboy Carter, is set to highlight African American influences in the predominantly white country music scene.
The Texas-born musician recently unveiled the cover of Cowboy Carter on her social media, featuring her riding a horse sideways while waving the American flag. In her announcement, Beyoncé clarified that this is not a country album but rather a reflection of her artistry.
Beyoncé’s foray into country music isn’t entirely new; she made history on Feb. 20 by becoming the first Black woman to top the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart with her viral hit “Texas Hold ‘Em.” However, this achievement was not without its challenges. The country music industry has historically favored white artists, with women of color receiving minimal airplay on country radio.
Despite these challenges, Beyoncé’s influence and support from her fans helped her break through these barriers. She has also used her platform to highlight other Black country artists, such as Rhiannon Giddens and Robert Randolph, who contributed to her album.
The inspiration for Cowboy Carter stemmed from Beyoncé’s performance of “Daddy Lessons” at the 2016 Country Music Awards, where she faced backlash and racism. This experience led her to delve deeper into the history of country music and her own roots in Houston, Texas, where she grew up immersed in Western culture.
The title of the album, Cowboy Carter, has sparked speculation among fans. Some believe it is a nod to the Carter Family, renowned pioneers of country music. Others suggest it may reference Lesley Riddle, an African-American musician who collaborated closely with the Carter Family, contributing to their iconic sound.
Regardless of the exact meaning behind the title, Cowboy Carter represents Beyoncé’s commitment to challenging stereotypes and honoring African American contributions to country music. The album is set to be released on March 29, further solidifying Beyoncé’s legacy as a boundary-breaking artist.