Beyoncé. Most know the iconic name. Millions have bought her records; millions have seen her perform. For several decades, she has established herself as a legend who can fit into several music categories, including R&B, hip hop, and pop.
However, there is one music category that she has yet to fit into (at least, not extensively). Country music has eluded the legendary singer and performer for her whole career.
Now, fans get to see a different version of the Beyoncé they’ve known for years. Recently, she released two country songs, “Texas Hold Em” and “16 Carriages.” As only she can, she added her own Beyoncé twang to a genre that sounds rather similar universally.
Within the first week of her releasing it, the songs occupied positions in the Top 5 of iTunes in the United States. As with most Beyoncé releases, these have garnered much attention from fans and music lovers alike.
Let’s just say: the attention and opinions of fans have been quite varied. Many fans have talked highly of the songs, expressing their surprise that she was able to switch to this genre. Others have admitted that country was not one of their favorite genres until Beyoncé released these songs. Ultimately, many have applauded her for taking on the difficult feat of entirely changing genres.
On the contrary, there are several music listeners who have criticized her entrance into this genre. Some have proclaimed that the music is “not country.” In addition, they have adamantly claimed that music like hers ruins the country music genre by infusing a pop and hip-hop style into it. Even some Beyoncé fans have claimed that she does not belong in the category of country but is meant to be in the R&B/Pop genre.
Regardless of the varied opinions, Queen Bey has proven that she has nothing to prove. From the jump, she made clear that the motive of this switch was to illuminate the few black voices in country, as well as defy the typical assumption that blacks cannot be successful country artists.
Her whole country album, Act ii, will be released on March 29. So, whether fans love it or not, Beyoncé is coming with this album!
