Written by Mia Aponte. Graphic by Ana Vergara.
Beyoncé has once again surprised her fans with a groundbreaking new album, “Cowboy Carter.” Departing from her signature sound, Beyoncé ventures into uncharted territory, blending elements of country, hip-hop and soul to create a musical journey unlike anything she has ever produced before. Though I am not the biggest fan of Beyoncé or country music, this album is a testament to her versatility and power as an artist. This album confronts the racist origins and historical inaccuracies present within country music.
For many that were unaware just like myself, in the early 1900s, Black people were the original founders of country music, often blending elements of blues, folk and gospel music. Their folk music was often sung by enslaved captives to relax and connect with one another during this difficult period within American history. Eventually, country music gained popularity throughout America and Europe, largely due to non-Black performers, without even acknowledging them for their contributions or including them. This then became Beyoncé’s inspiration and fuel for the album “Cowboy Carter.”
The album opens with her vocals harmonizing, instantly transporting listeners to the dusty trails of the Wild West. Yet, as the first track unfolds, it becomes evident that “Cowboy Carter” is more than just a homage to country music—it’s a bold reinvention of the genre.
Songs like “16 Carriages” and “Alligator Tears” showcase Beyoncé’s powerhouse vocals against a backdrop of pulsating beats and electrifying guitar riffs. With lyrics that evoke themes of independence, resilience and empowerment, these tracks resonate deeply with audiences, regardless of their musical preferences.
But “Cowboy Carter” isn’t solely about blazing new trails—it’s also a celebration of Beyoncé’s roots. Tracks like “Ya Ya” and “Tyrant” pay homage to her Texan heritage, infusing traditional country melodies with modern flair. Beyoncé effortlessly navigates between genres, proving once again why she remains one of the most influential artists of our time.
Collaborations and covers play a pivotal role in “Cowboy Carter” with Beyoncé teaming up with a diverse array of artists to create a dynamic musical landscape. From rap icons to country legends, each guest brings their own unique flavor to the album, further enriching its sonic tapestry. Additionally, Beyoncé taking her own spin on some music classics like, “Jolene” and “Blackbird” truly emphasizes the power of not only music, but also black artistry within the industry.
Ultimately, “Cowboy Carter” is a triumph of artistry and innovation—a testament to Beyoncé’s boundless creativity and fearless spirit. By boldly venturing into new musical territory, she once again proves that she is not just a superstar, but a visionary artist whose influence knows no bounds. As fans eagerly embrace this new chapter in Beyoncé’s illustrious career, one thing is certain: with “Cowboy Carter,” she has once again raised the bar and cemented her status as a musical icon for the ages.
As Contributing Editor, Mia Aponte collaborates closely with staff and contributors to craft engaging narratives across various subjects. She is eager to infuse fresh perspectives and dynamic storytelling into her work and to help the contributors with their artistic pursuits. At SCAD, Mia majors in Fashion Marketing and Management and minors in Social Strategy and Management. She regularly offers opinionated pieces on numerous topics as well as pop culture insights. When she’s not writing, Mia is most likely thrifting, listening to music, or reading.
