Empire Records signee Shaboozey among featured artists
Beyoncé’s surprise Super Bowl announcement of her eighth studio album, “Act II: Cowboy Carter,” sent shockwaves through the music industry. The album’s lead singles, “16 Carriages” and “Texas Hold ‘Em,” not only dominated the charts but also sparked conversation about reclamation and representation in country music. Beyoncé became the first Black woman to top Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart with “Texas Hold ‘Em,” a history-making feat.
“Act II: Cowboy Carter” is the second part of a planned trilogy, following the release of “Renaissance” in July 2022. Details of “Act III” remain under wraps.
The new album isn’t just about chart success; it’s a statement. “Cowboy Carter” features rising Black country artist Shaboozey, known for blending hip-hop and country influences. Shaboozey appears on two tracks, “Spaghettii” and “Sweet Honey Buckiin’.” Trailblazing country artist Linda Martell is also featured.
This isn’t your typical country album. Beyoncé is pushing boundaries and challenging preconceived notions of genre. The experience that initially made her feel unwelcome in the country music world fueled her creative fire.
“The criticisms I faced when I first entered this genre forced me to propel past the limitations that were put on me,” Beyoncé wrote on Instagram. “Act II is a result of challenging myself and taking my time to bend and blend genres together to create this body of work.”
“This ain’t a Country album,” she concluded. “This is a ‘Beyoncé’ album.”
“Act II: Cowboy Carter” promises to be a genre-bending masterpiece that celebrates Black artists and challenges the status quo within country music.