"Cowboy Carter" album cover (Photo via Columbia Records)
Beyoncé’s most recent album, “Cowboy Carter,” showed a different side of the famous singer.
Beyoncé started in a trio called Destiny’s Child which focused on sassy R&B. As her career grew, she started to shift gears and do her own thing with music.
Her newest album, “Cowboy Carter,” focused on American country. Although the album has a great tune and Beyoncé has a great voice, I just don’t think this style fits her. Some songs were better than others, but I can’t wrap my head around the fact that this is Beyoncé’s album.
However, I do like what Beyoncé is doing, and the message behind the album is very culturally inclined. I also think it was clever of her to drop this kind of album right after “Renaissance” due to it being such a big success for the artist.
While experimentation and genre-blending are often celebrated in music, there comes a point where authenticity cannot be done for the sake of music. The album sounds more forced rather than a natural evolution of her sound. Her powerhouse vocals and commanding presence are undeniable, but they seem out of place on this album.
Country music is a genre that is deeply rooted in tradition and storytelling, often drawing from personal and cultural experiences. Beyoncé’s attempt to fulfill this genre feels more like a calculated marketing move rather than a genuine exploration of musical expression.
Growing up listening to Beyoncé, I have always admired her fearlessness in pushing boundaries and challenging norms. However, “Cowboy Carter” feels like a step back in her career, and it isn’t because she isn’t capable of tackling different genres- her versatility is unmatched- but rather that country does not match her strengths.
In a music industry dominated by trends and fads, there is something to be said for staying true to oneself. While taking risks and exploring new music is great, sometimes it’s better to stick with what works best for you. This album may have garnered attention for its uniqueness, but to many fans, myself included, it ultimately missed the mark. Beyoncé’s venture into country music serves as a reminder that not every experiment is going to be successful.
While her ambition is admirable, “Cowboy Carter” leaves much to be desired for those who have come to expect nothing from the queen herself. As she continues to push boundaries and challenge herself, let’s hope that her future music brings us back to the Beyoncé we all know and love.