Jelly Roll and mgk are working together for the first time in their careers on a country rock cut, “Lonely Road”. Both are obviously superstars in their respective genres, so this crossover is something that makes sense from a streaming standpoint. However, more importantly, this combination of talent is a great pairing musically speaking as well. Both are quite often bobbing and weaving in and out of different genres, mgk especially. However, Jelly Roll does too, as he has some rapport with quite a bit of hip-hop artists. According to the Cleveland native, this record is something that has taken a long time to finally release.
About two years, multiple studios, and a handful of countries only were needed for mgk and Jelly Roll to deliver “Lonely Road”. Overall, the single is produced and performed with a lot of emotion. If some of the lyrics sound familiar, it’s because it interpolates the iconic country song by John Denver, “Country Roads, Take Me Home”. Throughout, mgk and Jelly Roll talk about their struggles with addiction and relationships, something that are consistent themes in both artist’s discographies. This record has been doing massive numbers (expectedly), especially on YouTube. It’s currently the number one trending video for music thanks to it suggestion that Megan Fox and mgk could be announcing the expectance of their first child? His partner in crime is wearing a baby bump in the visuals. It fast forwards eight months later to when the kid is born, so maybe we have a big update for real coming soon.
I hear the devil wears Prada, but I couldn’t read the tags And your horn started showin’ when I see you mad But I’ll wait for you ’cause this is not the face I knew And I probably could’ve saved us, but instead, I let us crash ‘Cause I don’t trust no one to love me back, but you say, “I do” And this is not the place for you
50 Cent shared an A.I. remake of his iconic single, “In Da Club,” which changes the track to a country theme on Instagram, Sunday. In doing so, he playfully teased Beyonce in the caption, joking: “My country album on the way Beyoncé ain’t got sh*t on me. LOL.” The song is credited to “Conway Fitty,” a play on both his name as well as Conway Twitty.
Fans joined 50 in having plenty of laughs in the comments section. “‘Beyonce ain’t got sh*t on me.’ is friggin hilarious!” one user wrote. Another remarked: “They should have never given 50 AI.” The caption comes after Beyonce ventured into country music with her latest album, Cowboy Carter, earlier this year.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 04: (L-R) Beyoncé and Jay-Z attend the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)
Despite the playful nature of 50’s recent post, there has been animosity between him and Beyonce in the past. Back in 2022, he discussed their relationship during an appearance on The Breakfast Club, claiming that she was prepared to fight him over his feud with her husband, JAY-Z. “She came like she was ready!” he recalled of a run-in with the couple in the 2000s. “Like something was gonna happen! And I’m like, ‘Woah, woah, woah.’ She throwing me off now ’cause I don’t know exactly how to respond to this. You are still Beyoncé. She brought all of the sexy over with that energy jumping off. I look at Jay and he go [laughs]. Nah, he’ll tell you … I said, ‘Yo, alright. Whatever.’ ‘Cause really I’m just saying what’s up. But she’s feeling my energy come over because we do say things about each other — it’s a competitive nature, that’s it!”
Tanner Adell is an independent young artist who has consistently released music since 2021. Her latest track “Whiskey Blues” has continued to blow up online, resulting in astonishing chart placements, especially considering her status as an industry outsider. While Adell has steadily been building a buzz on her own for the last few years, most music fans became aware of her due to her landmark features on Beyoncé’s latest album Cowboy Carter. Tanner Adell lent vocals to two tracks, “Ameriican Requiem” and “Blackbiird.“
Given that Tanner Adell has begun to reach some major success in recent months, it’s only fitting that we dive into the history and background of the exciting up-and-comer, and look to the future for her latest upcoming projects. Here’s everything you need to know about the rising country-pop star.
Tanner Adell’s first tracks available on major streaming platforms include “Honky Tonk Heartbreak” and “Country Girl Commandments,” released in 2021. As she continued to pick up steam in the underground circuit, Adell signed a distribution deal with Columbia Records, which allowed her to release her first full-length LP Buckle Bunny in 2023. The album, whose title refers to promiscuous women with a specific interest in courting cowboys, contains 8 tracks, including such creatively-titled songs as “FU-150,” “Trailer Park Barbie,” and “I Hate Texas.”
Her Unique Background Gives A Fresh Perspective
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – JANUARY 23: Tanner Adell performs at CMT Next Women of Country: Class of 2024 Event at City Winery Nashville on January 23, 2024 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Catherine Powell/Getty Images for CMT)
Unlike many country stars, Tanner Adell didn’t grow up bumping Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton on a ranch south of the Mason-Dixon line. The singer, who lists Beyoncé as one of her biggest musical inspirations, had a unique childhood, which saw her splitting her time between her home in Manhattan Beach, California and Star Valley, Wyoming. Adell was initially born in Lexington, Kentucky, before being adopted and raised by Mormons from California.
While she didn’t grow up alongside her biological parents, Tanner Adell has met her biological father, and described him as an Atlanta rapper. She has not publicly elucidated on whether or not the rapper is of mainstream notoriety. Tanner’s fixation with country music began in her teenage years, as she taught herself how to play music while attending rodeo events where her mother served as a rodeo queen. Tanner Adell’s unique perspective is heavily infused into her music, making her records unapologetically true to herself, and endlessly fascinating.
While Tanner Adell no longer identifies as a Mormon, she maintains a close personal relationship with God, which she explores in her country tunes. On Buckle Bunny, Adell dives into her faith through the track “See You in Church,” which contains the lyrics “Sunday, yеah, the Lord comes first/ If I missed you last night, mm then I’ll see you in church.” Despite having parted ways with her strict Mormon faith, Adell claims that her belief in a higher power has been integral to her success, and helped her to progress when life becomes stressful.
Tanner Adell’s success makes it clear that her efforts to carve out a path within the music industry have been worth it, as she continues growing her brand each day. Currently, the budding country icon touts a following of over 9 million monthly listeners on Spotify alone, with more sure to come as she prepares to launch her sophomore effort. Be sure to remain on the lookout for Tanner Adell, especially if you’re a fan of Cowboy Carter.
Next week, Beyonce will release her highly anticipated new album COWBOY CARTER which will see her shifting her focus into country music. But she isn’t the only musical superstar that plans on trying their hand at the sound. Post Malone has announced an upcoming country single and he isn’t dropping it on his own. He’s recruiting a collaborator who is currently the biggest voice in all of country music by any metric, Morgan Wallen.
Last year, Wallen released his new album One Thing At A Time which was absolutely packed with hits. Most notably the track “Last Night” was the biggest song of all of 2023 on the Hot 100, topping the year end chart. Other tracks from the album like the title track, “You Proof,” “Thought You Should Know,” and “Thinkin’ Bout Me” were also big hits. Malone is no stranger himself to having big hits so the pair teaming up has quite a bit of potential. Post shared a snippet of the song to his Instagram earlier this week. Check out the preview of their upcoming collaboration below.
Morgan Wallen has crossed over into the rap world a few times before. He teamed up with Lil Durk back in 2022 for a single called “Broadway Girls.” The pair teamed up last year once again for a track called “Stand By Me” which landed at the back end of Durk’s Almost Healed album. After winning his first ever Grammy earlier this year Durk teased that they might collaborate again in the future.
Last year, Morgan Wallen appeared in a music video alongside another one of the biggest stars around, Drake. The rapper recruited Wallen for an appearance in his “You Broke My Heart” music video from the Scary Hours 3 EP back in December. What do you think of Post Malone collaborating on a new country song with Morgan Wallen? Do you like the snippet of the song he shared? Let us know in the comment section below.
COWBOY CARTER is coming – are you ready? On Tuesday (March 19), Beyonce took to Instagram to share an update on her highly anticipated Act II album. “Today marks the 10-day countdown until the release of act ii. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all of the supporters of ‘TEXAS HOLD ‘EM’ and ’16 CARRIAGES,’” her message began. “I feel honoured to be the first Black woman with the number one single on the Hot Country Songs chart. That would not have happened without the outpouring of support from each and every one of you. My hope is that years from now, the mention of an artist’s race, as it relates to releasing genres of music, will be irrelevant.”
Queen B has spent over five years making COWBOY CARTER. “It was born out of an experience that I had years ago where I did not feel welcomed…and it was very clear that I wasn’t,” she noted, seemingly referencing past racism she’s experienced within the industry. “But, because of that experience, I did a deeper dive into the history of Country music and studied our rich musical archive. It feels good to see how music can unite so many people around the world, while also amplifying the voices of some of the people who have dedicated so much of their lives educating on our musical history.”
“The criticisms I faced when I first entered this genre forced me to propel past the limitations that were put on me. act ii is a result of challenging myself, and taking my time to bend and blend genres together to create this body of work,” Beyonce shared. She has “a few surprises” in store for us, as well as collaborations with “brilliant artists” who have earned her deepest respects. “I hope that you can hear my heart and soul, and all the love and passion that I poured into every detail and every sound,” the mother of three later expressed. Her upcoming release is a “continuation of ‘RENASISSANCE’” that she hopes creates a journey for listeners in their mind while listening.
“This ain’t a Country album. This is a “Beyonce” album,” her post ended. If you’re curious about what Beyonce’s COWBOY CARTER LP might sound like, be sure to check out some of her past country works at the link below. Who do you think she’ll end up collaborating with? Let us know in the comments, and check back later for more hip-hop/pop culture.
As she’s often done and will continue to do, Beyoncé sparked an integral social conversation in response to her world-stopping work. In early February during the Super Bowl, the announcement of her rumored forthcoming country album “Act II” — lead by the plucky single “TEXAS HOLD ‘EM” and the stripped-down ballad “16 CARRIAGES” — raised several points surrounding the genre’s diversity issue. Both songs feature production, writing, and instrumental assists from Black artists. (“TEXAS HOLD ‘EM” features Black folk musician Rihannon Giddens on banjo and viola, while roots music steel guitarist Robert Randolph can be heard on “16 CARRIAGES.”)
Despite the songs’ rapid popularity following their surprise release, a post on X alluded to an Oklahoma country radio station refusing to play “TEXAS HOLD ‘EM,” stirring allegations of racism. It was later clarified that the station was unaware that Beyoncé had released music within this genre. (Early metadata also suggests that the songs were initially placed under her typical labels — Pop, Hot AC, Rhythmic, Urban, R&B — rather than country, which it was eventually serviced to.) Regardless of whether these songs will get airtime on country radio or not, the notion that the genre is attempting to shut out Beyoncé because of her perceived lack of country street cred has loomed largely.
But we’re missing the forest for the trees. Bey’s place in country music ultimately turns the genre’s proverbial mirror inward, in order to highlight a larger issue regarding the longtime exclusion of the genre’s Black female artists by both institutions and fans. These artists are integral to the foundation of country music, but seldom get the respect or visibility to compensate for the contributions they’ve made. Whether this was Beyoncé’s intention or not, “Act II” is both an album release and a social experiment. She’s helping to apply pressure on a machine designed to exclude certain acts from certain genres in order to force a change.
“I want to recognize that I do not know of any Black female country artists and I do think that this is a problem,” says Jane*, a country music fan from Massachusetts, when asked if she actively listens to country music by Black artists. “There is no representation for Black female artists in country music, and very little representation for Black male country artists. I think that Beyoncé’s two songs are highlighting this major fault.”
Despite “TEXAS HOLD ‘EM”s supremacy on both the country charts and the all-genre Billboard Hot 100, country’s fiercest advocates have taken umbrage with the idea that the Houston-bred icon is threatening “traditional” country music, identified by simple production and thematic-yet-unifying lyricism. This is due to the sonic je nais se quoi that makes a Beyoncé song, a Beyoncé song. (Unparalleled vocal runs, harmonies, and layered production.) As we saw with Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road” in 2019, 2017’s “Meant To Be” by Bebe Rexha and Florida Georgia Line, and even Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” in 1997, this isn’t the first time a discussion about “what country sounds like” has occurred.
“I think it is inevitable that [genre cross-pollination] happens,” says country fan Xavier, who not only names Zach Bryan and Charles Wesley Godwin as some of his favorite acts, but performs country music in NYC. In the last 15 years especially, pop, hip-hop, and trap beats have infiltrated the genre by acts such as Morgan Wallen (“Wasted On You”), rapper-turned-country star Jelly Roll (“Unlive”), and Florida Georgia Line (“Lil Bit”). Purists may also condemn these artists, but it seems that casual fans — and the charts — don’t seem to mind.
But the “sound” of some songs doesn’t negate the fact that there are Black women country acts, producers, and songwriters who are fighting to have their work heard, regardless of whether they’re releasing genre-bending takes or “pure” country tracks. What ultimately stifles these voices in the mainstream is the genre’s deeply rooted racism, inherent misogynoir, and the demonstrated unwillingness of fans and higher powers to dive deeper into the diversity country offers outside of what is already being pushed.
“Chris Willman did a really great article in Variety, and he included a quote about how [country] programmers have been searching for this amazing Black woman that is an incredible singer, has charisma, has the right voice, the right song… but they just haven’t found her,” explains country music star Rissi Palmer over Zoom. “There have been more than 50 years of Black women trying to be in the genre…not one?” With her 2007 song “Country Girl,” Palmer became the first Black woman in 20 years to have a song hit Billboard’s country music chart. She is also the host of Apple Music’s radio show “Color Me Country with Rissi Palmer,” where she highlights non-white acts within country.
“Myself and my friends [musicians Denitia, Madeline Edwards, Tiera Kennedy, Miko Marks, and Sacha] went to the Opry to support Camille Parker,” she continues. “In the group you have a variety of colors, shapes, size, perspective, sound. Every one of these women has put music out into the world, several of them are signed to major labels…not one [fits the criteria]?”
Race played a major factor in the distribution of music during the beginning of the recording era, around the 1920s. Black art was relegated to “race records,” while white acts played “hillbilly music.” Both “types” of music featured instruments that Black artists are often credited with bringing to the forefront, such as the banjo, which was long associated with slaves. “Race records” would eventually evolve into rhythm and blues, and “hillbilly music” — presented as more “marketable” to rural whites — would birth country music. With this said, music scholars often acknowledge country’s Black roots and overarching influence. However, its segregated foundation contributes to a present-day aversion to change, and the continuation of Black artists being overlooked or ignored.
These days, country radio remains overwhelmingly white and male. Per PBS: “A recent study from the University of Ottawa found a mere .03 percent of all songs on country radio from 2002 to 2020 were by Black women. Less than 1 percent of the 411 artists signed to the three major country music labels are people of color.” Linda Martell was the first Black woman to hit the country charts with “Color Him Father.” When her singles hit Billboard’s country charts, Beyoncé became just the eighth Black woman to have her work appear there, joining Martell, Ruby Falls, Pointer Sisters, Nisha Jackson, Dona Mason, Palmer, and Mickey Guyton.
“I think that country is an American art form,” Palmer notes of the importance of Black country artists. “It borrows from Celtic tradition, African tradition, Mexican tradition, and Native American tradition. You bring all these things together, and it makes this art form that is truly unique and special to the experiences of this country, and that’s what should make it inclusive.”
“I really hope people realize that country is such a diverse genre and that it shouldn’t be defined by any stereotypes,” country fan Xavier adds regarding the importance of inclusivity in country music. (He was born and raised in China.)
Perhaps more than any other genre, country music thrives on the pertinence of storytelling. Now more than ever, Black women deserve just as much of a chance as anyone to share their stories. As a country composed of the descendants of individuals from all over the world, there is nothing more American than art chronicling these diverse experiences. Julie Williams’ “Southern Curls” highlights Black beauty. “Seeds” by Rissi Palmer exemplifies the power of community. Mickey Guyton’s “Black Like Me” earned a Grammy nomination in 2020, christening her as the first Black woman to be nominated for “Best Country Solo Performance.” (“These are valid stories, these are country stories,” Palmer affirms.)
But such is life — these voices remain muffled rather than amplified, not just because of the genre’s diversity issue, but also perhaps as a means to turn a blind eye to reality. This creates barriers between Black art and consumers. So, how do we continue to bolster these voices in country music?
Support them. Listen to their stories. Shine a light. Give them your time. Because not only have they been here doing the work, they’re not going anywhere.
Songwriter and performer Frankie Staton made waves during the ‘90s by leading the nationally recognized Black Country Music Association, which had an aim to educate the masses and form community within the country music space. Music journalist and artist manager Holly G founded the Black Opry in 2021, an in-person community of Black artists and fans that commune to celebrate the art form. Equal Access, now entering its third year, is an initiative that strives for equity among artists, executives, and management in country music. Per USA Today, its cohorts have been about 60 percent Black women. There’s also CMT’s Next Women of Country, where women of color (including Denitia and Tanner Adell) reportedly make up 12 percent of the artists in the program.
Plus, there’s a plethora of radio shows and podcasts like “Color Me Country” that speak to the non-white experience in the genre, as well as playlists that highlight country music from minority groups. (Don Flemons’ Tennessean playlist is a robust exploration of Black country music, while Spotify’s “Country Frequency” and “Country Latino,” and Apple Music’s “Boots & Mocs” highlight country, roots, and Americana music from Black, Brown, and Indigenous voices.)
“I remember during the election in 2020…somebody said that the motto of Black women is: ‘Forget it, I’ll do it,’” Palmer laughs. “We’re doing that [within country]! We always make a way when we have to. Plus, Google is your friend. You’ve got the same Google that I do.”
What does this moment mean for the future of Black women artists in country music? Palmer (as well as Xavier, Jane* and likely many other country advocates) are hopeful that these conversations allow both new and longtime fans to expand their horizons when it comes to their idea of country music.
“I do think that anyone regardless of race, gender, or background can create a song that includes many country aspects,” Jane* says. “Anyone can make any kind of music they want to, [and] mix country with whatever you want to. I don’t think that my opinion of country music should limit anyone to stay in a box.”
There’s also the wish that Black women country musicians, songwriters, and producers seize the opportunity to strike while the iron is hot, but continue to stay true to who they are.
“I’m not looking at this like ‘Beyoncé has swooped down to save all of us and to take her with us,’ because it’s not her job,” Palmer explains. “It doesn’t start with Beyoncé, it doesn’t start with Charley Pride, it goes way further than that, and that’s the story that needs to be told at this moment.”
“There’s a lot of really great music,” she continues. “If people just take the time to look it up, they will find a treasure trove. Whatever it is that you’re looking for, whatever style [of country music] you like, it’s out there.”
Garth Brooks, an emblematic figure in the country music genre, has become one of the most influential and best-selling music artists ever. As of 2024, his net worth is an impressive $400 million, according to Fresherslive. This financial milestone is a testament to Brooks’ unparalleled success in the music industry, marked by his innovative approach to country music, record-breaking album sales, and unforgettable live performances. Brooks’ journey from playing in Oklahoma clubs to becoming a global superstar offers a compelling narrative of talent, perseverance, and savvy business acumen, making him a perennial figure in the annals of music history.
Breaking Boundaries In Country Music
LOS ANGELES, CA – DECEMBER, 1990: American singer and songwriter Garth Brooks poses for a portrait circa December, 1990 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Lester Cohen/Getty Images)
Garth Brooks’ ascent to stardom began with his eponymous debut album in 1989. It marked a seismic shift in the country music landscape. His ability to blend rock and pop elements with traditional country themes created a unique sound that appealed to a broad audience. Albums such as No Fences, Ropin’ the Wind, and The Hits cemented his status as a country music icon and contributed to changing the genre’s global perception. Brooks’ chart-topping hits, including “Friends in Low Places” and “The Dance,” have become anthems, showcasing his skill in crafting songs that resonate with listeners’ emotions and experiences.
Revolutionizing Live Performances
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – OCTOBER 13: Garth Brooks and Randy Travis attend the 2021 CMT. Artist of the Year on October 13, 2021 also in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images for CMT/Viacom,)
Garth Brooks is renowned for his electrifying live performances. They have also significantly influenced his financial success. His concerts are high energy, intimacy with the audience, and spectacular staging. It helped set new standards for live music events. Brooks’ world tours have consistently broken attendance records. This underscores his popularity and the high demand for his music. Additionally, these tours contributed substantially to his net worth. They reinforced his reputation as an outstanding live performer, capable of connecting with fans across the globe.
Diversifying Beyond Music
FRISCO, TEXAS – MAY 11: Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood attend the 58th Academy of. Country Music Awards at The Ford Center at The Star on May 11, 2023 also in Frisco, Texas. (Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)
Further, Garth Brooks diversified his career to include television, film, and digital ventures. His engagement with these mediums has allowed him to reach new audiences and explore different aspects of his creativity. Brooks’ strategic approach to his career, including a brief retirement to focus on his family and a highly successful comeback, highlights his understanding of the entertainment industry’s dynamics. This diversification, coupled with his music sales and touring revenue, has been instrumental in building his substantial net worth.
Garth Brooks’ journey is a narrative of groundbreaking achievements and enduring influence in the music industry. Moreover, his innovative approach to country music, record-breaking tours, and successful ventures beyond music illustrate a career defined by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a deep connection with fans. Overall, Brooks’ legacy, characterized by his contributions to transforming country music and setting new benchmarks for live performances, inspires artists and entertain audiences worldwide.
Cassadee Pope, who first captured the public’s attention as the lead vocalist of the pop-punk band Hey Monday, has since established herself as a formidable solo artist in the country music scene. By 2024, her dynamic career and entrepreneurial spirit have culminated in a net worth estimated at $5 million, according to Eric Singer. Pope’s transition from the Warped Tour stages to the grand venues of country music encapsulates a journey of artistic evolution, personal growth, and savvy navigation through the music industry’s complexities.
Cassadee Pope’s musical journey is characterized by her remarkable versatility and ability to cross genres effortlessly. After gaining initial fame with Hey Monday, Pope ventured into a solo career that took a decisive turn towards country music following her victorious stint on The Voice. Her win on the show was a triumph and a pivotal moment that introduced her to the country music audience. Albums like Frame by Frame have since showcased her ability to blend pop-punk energy with country sensibilities, creating a unique sound that resonates with many listeners.
Breakthrough In Country Music
NASHVILLE, TN – JUNE 10: Cassadee Pope and Billy Ray Cyrus attend the 2015 CMT. Music awards at the Bridgestone Arena on June 10, 2015 also in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Rick Diamond/Getty Images for CMT)
Pope’s breakthrough in country music was solidified with hits like “Wasting All These Tears,” earning her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Her success on The Voice and subsequent solo career highlights her as a standout voice in country music. This transition into country music expanded her artistic repertoire and significantly contributed to her net worth through album sales, touring, and collaborations with other artists in the genre.
Entrepreneurial Ventures & Brand Partnerships
NASHVILLE, TN – DECEMBER 02: Cassadee Pope performs onstage during the 2015. “CMT Artists of the Year” at Schermerhorn Symphony Center on December 2, 2015 also in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images for CMT)
Beyond her music career, Cassadee Pope has ventured into various entrepreneurial efforts and brand partnerships, further diversifying her income and solidifying her net worth. From fashion collaborations to endorsements in the beauty industry, Pope has leveraged her public persona to engage in business ventures that align with her personal brand and interests. These endeavors showcase her savvy understanding of the business side of her career, contributing to her financial success and allowing her to connect with fans beyond music.
A Continuing Legacy
NASHVILLE, TN – AUGUST 23: Cassadee Pope speaks onstage during the 11th Annual ACM Honors at the Ryman Auditorium on August 23, 2017 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for ACM)
Looking ahead, Cassadee Pope’s influence in both the pop-punk and country music scenes positions her for continued success and impact. Her journey from a band frontwoman to a solo country artist illustrates a career marked by resilience, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of artistic authenticity. With a net worth of $5 million in 2024, Pope’s story is one of triumph over genre constraints, reflecting her multifaceted talent and determination to carve her own path in the music industry.
Cassadee Pope’s net worth of $5 million in 2024 is a testament to her enduring appeal, musical talent, and business acumen. Her evolution from pop-punk roots to a country music star highlights a career built on versatility, innovation, and a deep connection with fans across genres. As Pope continues to explore new musical directions and business ventures, her legacy as a dynamic and influential artist is only set to grow.
One of Beyonce’s producers, Killah B, says that the legendary singer has “shocking” collaborations planned for her new country album. While he didn’t go into specifics when discussing the project with TMZ, he did say big things are in store.
When the outlet asked him specifically about working with Taylor Swift, he responded: “Let’s just say, she’s on the approach of shocking the world.” The comments come after Beyonce dropped the new tracks, “TEXAS HOLD ‘EM,” and “16 CARRIAGES,” following the Super Bowl. Killah B has production credits on the former of the two.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 04: (L-R) Beyoncé and Jay-Z onstage during the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)
Back in October, Taylor Swift shared a tribute to Beyonce on Instagram. The two attended each other’s premieres for The Eras Tour The Movie and Renaissance:A Film By Beyoncé. “I’m so glad I’ll never know what my life would’ve been like without @beyonce‘s influence,” she wrote. “The way she’s taught me and every artist out here to break rules and defy industry norms. Her generosity of spirit. Her resilience and versatility. She’s been a guiding light throughout my career and the fact that she showed up tonight was like an actual fairytale.”
Killah B Speaks On Beyonce’s Next Album
Not everyone is excited by the idea of Beyonce venturing into country music. Azealia Banks recently remarked that she’s going to be “ridiculed” for the decision. “Nothing country about it,” Banks wrote on her Instagram Story. “You’re setting yourself up to be ridiculed again. There’s a theatrical element to country music. Them critics are not just going to accept an ugly blond wig and bullying from Jay-Z. It’s giving big-time musical grift. Yes, Black girls can make country music. But you’re just really not hitting the button.” Be on the lookout for further updates on Beyonce on HotNewHipHop.
Over the weekend sports fans gathered to watch the biggest football game of the year. The Super Bowl was an absolute thriller between the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs that needed overtime to settle on a winner. But right in the middle of the game music fans got one of the biggest announcements of the year so far. During a surprise commercial spot, Beyonce announced the highly-anticipated follow-up to her 2022 album Renaissance.
Fans were thrilled to hear that her new album ACT II is dropping in late March. The project was set up by two new singles “16 CARRIAGES” and “TEXAS HOLD EM’.” Just as fans were digesting the surprise of a new album announcement, another surprise hit. The two singles she released see her shifting her sound into a very unexpected new direction. The two tracks and seemingly the album that’s on its way see Beyonce pulling from the world of country music. Though the songs still seem to have left some fans and even some radio stations baffled about what genre they are, it hasn’t stopped fans from streaming them in bulk.
Regardless of the debate over what genre to classify Beyonce’s new singles as, Apple Music is comfortable listing them as country. That enabled Bey to quickly fly up the US Country charts on the streaming platform and achieve a pretty special Milestone. With her songs sitting at both number one and number two on the chart she officially became the first black woman to ever top Apple Music’s Country chart.
One reaction fans had to Bey’s shift to country was to ask K. Michelle how she felt. The rapper and singer shifted directions towards country music last year. Despite Bey sort of following her transition, Michelle was sure to clarify that there are no bad feelings. What do you think of Beyonce’s new singles going in a country direction? Are you surprised she’s the first black woman to ever top the Apple Music country charts? Let us know in the comment section below.
Beyoncé is the FIRST black female artist to reach the top of Apple Music US Country chart in history.