In a shocking move that has sparked discussion and speculation throughout the music industry, Beyoncé has released a country single titled “Texas Hold ‘Em.” This surprise release has left radio programmers and fans alike wondering whether the superstar will be able to break into the traditionally conservative world of country music.
The initial response from country radio has been mixed, with one Oklahoma station outright refusing to play the song and then later adding it to their playlist. However, the bigger question remains: will Beyoncé be able to gain significant traction at country radio and make a mark in the genre?
With the controversy surrounding the lack of diversity within the country music industry, the stakes are high for Beyoncé. As one of the biggest music stars in the world, her move into country music could be seen as a statement about the ongoing issues of race and representation within the genre.
While some stations have played the song during news segments, there has been no coordinated promotional push for “Texas Hold ‘Em” from Sony Music Nashville or major radio chains such as iHeart and Cumulus. This lack of support has led to speculation about the label’s intentions and plans for the single.
BEYONCÉ IS COUNTRY! pic.twitter.com/0QweV4cC8K
— mieky 𐚁🐝 (@mikeysusername) February 14, 2024
One of the few stations that have played the song in regular rotation is KBAY in San Francisco. Program director and operations manager Bo Matthews has expressed his excitement about playing the song, stating that the format is big enough for all artists to explore.
Others remain skeptical about the potential reception of Beyoncé’s foray into country music. Editor of the radio tipsheet Country Insider, Brian Mansfield, notes that it is challenging to get a song on the radio without label support. He also points out that the only recent comparable instance of a crossover success in country music was Ray Charles’ “Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music” in 1962.
With no previous role model for a superstar like Beyoncé venturing into the country genre, it is unclear how radio programmers and audiences will respond. This uncertainty has only added to the buzz surrounding the release and its potential impact on the industry.
The conversation about Beyoncé and country music has also extended beyond industry circles, with many fans and social media users discussing the potential implications of her move. The lack of success for Black women in country music is a significant factor in the discourse, with questions being raised about whether even a superstar like Beyoncé can break through the barriers.
As of now, it remains unclear whether “Texas Hold ‘Em” will gain traction at country radio or if Beyoncé’s country album “Act II” will receive a promotional push from her label.
