Beyonce’s latest album, Cowboy Carter, a cultural sensation since its release, was notably absent from the list of nominees for the 58th Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, announced on Monday.
The album’s lead single, Texas Hold ‘Em, topped the charts, including the country music category, and the album has been widely regarded as a triumph.
Cowboy Carter, a tribute to Beyonce’s southern roots, offers a deep exploration of the Black heritage within country music. Its omission from the CMA nominations has raised eyebrows, particularly as it challenges Nashville’s predominantly white and male-dominated perspective on the genre. The album traces the evolution of country music, from African American spirituals and fiddle tunes to the genre’s groundbreaking female figures.
The CMA Awards ceremony is set for November 20, with Morgan Wallen leading nominations with seven, followed by Chris Stapleton and Cody Johnson, each with five. Lainey Wilson and Post Malone, who transitioned into country this year, received four nominations each.
Beyonce is no stranger to controversy within the country scene, having faced backlash after her 2016 CMA performance of Daddy Lessons. This year, she addresses similar criticism in her song American Requiem, calling out the industry’s narrow view of what constitutes “real” country music.
Despite the lack of nominations, Cowboy Carter continues to resonate as an innovative blend of country, rap, soul, rock, and gospel, reaffirming Beyonce’s versatility as an artist.
