Beyoncé made history at the 2024 Billboard Music Awards, winning Top Country Female Artist for her groundbreaking album, Cowboy Carter. This marks her first award in the country music genre, solidifying her ability to conquer any musical frontier.
Beyoncé Breaking New Ground in Country Music
The award came amidst strong competition from rising stars Megan Moroney, known for her hit “Am I Okay,” and Lainey Wilson, the voice behind “Country’s Cool Again.” Beyoncé’s victory underscores the impact of her genre-bending album, which features tracks like “16 Carriages” and the record-breaking “Texas Hold ‘Em.” The latter not only debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard Top 100 but also climbed to the top spot the following week. It became Beyoncé’s ninth No. 1 on the chart and her first to lead Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, making her the first Black woman to achieve this milestone.
Beyoncé’s triumph comes after being overlooked at September’s Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, where Cowboy Carter received no nominations. Many fans and artists criticized the CMA’s decision, highlighting the album’s widespread acclaim.
Country legend Billy Ray Cyrus was one of Beyoncé’s vocal supporters. Following the CMA snub, he tweeted, “Her album was brilliant…her single ruled. She doesn’t need a trophy from the CMA or their approval.”
Despite the initial lack of recognition, Beyoncé’s influence in the genre has been undeniable. Cowboy Carter has earned an impressive 11 Grammy nominations, including Best Country Album, Best Country Song for “Texas Hold ‘Em,” and Album of the Year.
Winning at the Billboard Music Awards adds to Beyoncé’s already monumental career, bringing her total Billboard wins to 17. Known as the most decorated artist in Grammy history with 32 wins, Beyoncé continues to break boundaries across genres.
As she looks ahead to the Grammy Awards in February, where Cowboy Carter could bring more country accolades, Beyoncé’s presence in country music signals a new era of inclusivity and innovation. Fans and critics alike will be watching to see if the Grammys deliver a victory for one of music’s most transformative artists.