Beyoncé: A Passion for Country Music From a Young Age, According to Beyoncé’s Dad
In January 2024, the Grammy stage was graced by the presence of Beyoncé. The 42-year-old Black woman, known for her incredible talent and stage presence, flaunted her platinum blonde hair, perfectly complemented by a studded black leather jacket, white cowboy hat, and blouse.
For those who may have been living under a rock, it may come as a surprise that Beyoncé’s latest country song is taking the music industry by storm. Titled “Texas Hold ‘Em,” the track has made history as the first country song by a Black woman to debut at number one on the Billboard charts.
While some may have been taken aback by Beyoncé’s unexpected departure from her R&B and pop roots, her father, Dr. Matthew Knowles, believes that country music has always had a special place in her heart. Speaking with the BBC Asian Network, Dr. Knowles revealed that Beyoncé’s parents were avid country music enthusiasts, and she spent many summers in Alabama, where she was exposed to the genre from a young age.
“When Beyoncé was just a little baby, around two or three years old, she would spend summers with my parents,” Dr. Knowles shared. “Her grandfather, my dad, was a huge fan of country music and would serenade her with his songs. Being exposed to this music at such a young age had a deep impact on her.”
Dr. Knowles, who managed Beyoncé until 2011 and also oversaw her sister Solange’s career with Destiny’s Child, believes that Beyoncé’s foray into country music may open doors to a whole new audience. He recalls attending the 2007 Dream Girls event with Beyoncé and sees the potential for her to reach a broader fanbase with her country music endeavors.
Following the release of her latest album, part of the Renaissance project, Beyoncé dropped two new singles, including “Texas Hold ‘Em.” The upcoming full-length album is set to be released next month, with expectations of a predominantly country sound. The second single, “16 Carriages,” debuted at number nine on the Billboard country charts.
While this may be Beyoncé’s first full-length country album, Dr. Knowles points out that she has dabbled in the genre before, citing her 2016 song “Daddy Lessons” from the Lemonade album. Despite being nominated for a Grammy in the country category, the Recording Academy chose not to award the song, sparking discussions about representation in country music.
Last week, a US country station faced criticism for not playing Beyoncé’s “Texas Hold ‘Em,” highlighting the industry’s ongoing struggles with diversity and inclusion. However, Dr. Knowles sees Beyoncé’s influence as a positive force that can reshape the landscape of country music and attract a new generation of fans.
“The country music industry should embrace the diversity Beyoncé brings and see it as an opportunity to expand its reach,” Dr. Knowles stated.
In addition to his support for his daughter’s musical ventures, Dr. Knowles recently established a scholarship for aspiring musicians at the London College of Contemporary Music. The first recipient, Polish composer and singer Anna Prasek, known as anMari, received the £10,500 bursary, emphasizing the importance of pushing boundaries and embracing new opportunities in music.
Dr. Knowles’ advice to emerging musicians mirrors the guidance he provided to Beyoncé and Solange, emphasizing the significance of passion, work ethic, discipline, patience, and perseverance in achieving success in the competitive music industry.
As Beyoncé continues to break barriers and explore new musical territories, her infectious passion for country music has the power to transform the genre and pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse industry. With her influential presence and innovative approach to music, Beyoncé’s impact on country music is sure to resonate for years to come.
