Having conquered the pop music world, Beyoncé made her country debut this year with March’s Cowboy Carter. As with most things the native Texan does in her career, the record made history. Beyoncé became the first Black woman to top the Top Country Album chart while also reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200. Today (Wednesday, Dec. 25,) millions were on the edge of their seats as Cowboy Carter got its live debut during halftime of the Houston Texas-Baltimore Ravens Christmas Day showdown.
‘Cowboy Carter’ Finally Gets Its Due
While Cowboy Carter has received no shortage of accolades, it is certainly not without its detractors. Many a purist has derided the record as “not country,” and the album was even snubbed by the 2024 CMA Awards.
However, Beyoncé has always stood firm on her country music credentials. So it was fitting to see her perform “TEXAS HOLD ‘EM” and “16 Carriages” live for the first time at Houston’s NRG Stadium—home of the storied Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
In the days leading up to Christmas, excitement for the performance hit a crescendo on social media. “Jesus on his birthday getting ready to watch Beyoncé’s halftime show with his disciples in heaven,” one fan wrote on X/Twitter.
Queen Bey absolutely delivered, with surprise appearances from Cowboy Carter collaborators Shaboozey and Post Malone. “Post Malone is like ‘I’m really hanging out with Beyonce right now,’” one X/Twitter user wrote.
Beyoncé Leads 2025 Grammy Nominations with a Groundbreaking Entry into Country Music
Beyoncé has once again proven why she reigns supreme in the music industry. The 2025 Grammy nominations, announced last month, have solidified her as a true trailblazer, with a personal-best 11 nominations. What has captured the most attention, however, is her unexpected dominance in country music categories, a bold new frontier for the 43-year-old global superstar.
Her latest album, Cowboy Carter, has sparked lively debates about its place on country music charts, with critics and fans alike weighing in on whether the former Destiny’s Child singer has successfully crossed into the genre. The Recording Academy appears to have given its resounding approval. Among her 11 nominations, Beyoncé is in the running for Best Country Solo Performance, Best Country Duo/Group Performance, Best Country Song, and the coveted Best Country Album.
Cowboy Carter Redefines Beyoncé’s Sound
Released earlier this year, Cowboy Carter marked a stark departure from Beyoncé’s usual R&B and pop dominance, delving into storytelling, acoustic arrangements, and the distinct sounds of country music. The album features a mix of heartfelt ballads and upbeat tracks that blend traditional country themes with Beyoncé’s signature powerhouse vocals and modern production.
The standout single “16 CARRIAGES” has been a cultural phenomenon, earning her a nomination for Best Country Solo Performance. The emotionally charged ballad captures themes of love, loss, and resilience, resonating with fans across genres.
In addition to her solo efforts, Beyoncé’s collaboration with Miley Cyrus on the track “II Most Wanted” has earned a nod for Best Country Duo/Group Performance. The duet, which chronicles the story of two outlaws navigating fame and betrayal, has been praised for its evocative storytelling and flawless vocal harmonies.
Her nomination for Best Country Song comes from “Texas Hold ‘Em,” a playful yet poignant track that metaphorically uses the popular card game to explore themes of risk, trust, and redemption. The song’s clever lyricism and infectious melody have made it a standout in both country and mainstream charts.
The Competition: Heavyweights in Country
Beyoncé’s nomination for Best Country Album pits her against some of the biggest names in the genre, including Post Malone, Kacey Musgraves, Chris Stapleton, and Lainey Wilson. Each of these artists has brought their own unique flavor to country music this year, making the category one of the most competitive in recent memory.
Post Malone’s Southern Crossroads has been lauded for its experimental blend of country and rock influences. Kacey Musgraves, a Grammy darling, returns with Golden Hour Revisited, a sequel to her critically acclaimed album. Chris Stapleton’s soulful Heartland Revival continues his reign as one of the genre’s powerhouses, while Lainey Wilson’s Southern Spirit celebrates her traditional roots with a modern twist.
Despite the stiff competition, Beyoncé’s nominations are a testament to her versatility and ability to transcend genres.
