Gang Flow – Beyoncé Cowboy Carter is more than just a country album; it is a powerful statement that reconnects with a long-overlooked Black cowboy culture. Anyone confused about Beyoncé Cowboy’s foray into country music need only look to her home state of Texas, where Black cowboys have played a pivotal role in shaping American Western traditions.
Her latest album, Cowboy Carter, which earned three awards at the 67th Grammy Awards including Best Country Album and Best Album of the Year stands as both a musical and cultural milestone. While Beyoncé herself clarified that Cowboy Carter is not strictly a country album but rather a Beyoncé album, it undeniably draws inspiration from a rich history of Black country music and cowboy heritage.
Texas, particularly Houston, has long been a hub of cowboy culture. Hosting one of the largest rodeos in the world, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the state has undeniable cowboy credentials. However, for many years, mainstream portrayals of cowboys have been overwhelmingly white. This erasure has left many unaware that historically, one in four cowboys was Black.
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The contributions of Black cowboys date back to the early 1800s. With figures such as Bill Pickett, the inventor of rodeo steer wrestling (known as “bulldogging”), leading the way. Pickett was also the first African American inducted into the National Rodeo Hall of Fame. A testament to the often-overlooked role of Black cowboys in shaping the American West.
Francesca Royster, a professor at DePaul University and author of Black Country Music: Listening for Revolutions. Explains that the image of the cowboy has historically been associated with white identity to justify westward expansion. However, the truth is that Black cowboys were always present, contributing significantly to ranching, horsemanship, and rodeo culture.
In recent years, artists such as Lil Nas X, Blanco Brown, and Rhiannon Giddens have helped shift the perception of country music to be more inclusive. Beyoncé Cowboy Carter adds to this movement, further highlighting Black contributions to the genre.
Beyoncé Cowboy Carter’s success represents more than just musical excellence. It is a step toward changing the narrative around country music. As Beyoncé shared on social media, she has not always felt welcomed in the country genre. Her experience echoes the sentiments of many Black artists who have struggled to find acceptance in a space long dominated by white performers.
“I hope it will change things,” Royster said, commenting on Beyoncé’s impact. “There’s a welcome home happening, and it’s for everyone. Whether you get on a horse or wear the boots or not, this is a reconnection. This is a reminder that we helped shape America and the West.”
With Cowboy Carter, Beyoncé has not only made history as the first Black woman to top Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart with Texas Hold ‘Em. But has also paved the way for future Black artists in the country music space. Her album is a celebration of resilience, culture, and the enduring spirit of the Black cowboy. Ensuring that their stories are remembered and honored for generations to come.
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