It all began with a western-style Grammys ensemble, featuring a cream-colored cowboy hat, studded string tie, and matching Louis Vuitton jacket and skirt. This outfit signaled the start of a new era after Beyoncé’s highly praised “Renaissance” dance music project.

Following the success of “Renaissance,” fans eagerly awaited the next phase of Beyoncé’s three-part project. A Verizon ad during the Super Bowl, featuring Beyoncé in multiple outfits, hinted at new music coming soon. Subsequently, two singles, “Texas Hold ‘Em” and “16 Carriages,” with a Southern twang and country sound, were released, building anticipation for the album’s release on March 29.

With her statement titled “Cowboy Carter,” Beyoncé detailed the album’s origins, drawing inspiration from her Houston upbringing and the Black roots of country music. Emphasizing that this is a “Beyoncé album” more than a country album, she made it clear that genre labels don’t define her work.

The project, in the works for over five years, reflects Beyoncé’s commitment to creating a unique musical experience. The album features collaborations with respected country musicians and artists from various genres, challenging the traditional norms of country music. Beyoncé’s success on the Hot Country Songs chart with “Texas Hold ‘Em” has already made history as the first Black woman to top the chart.

As anticipation grows for the release of “Cowboy Carter,” with possible Dolly Parton covers and a mix of country and other musical influences, Beyoncé’s groundbreaking approach to the genre is sure to ignite discussions about representation and diversity in the country music industry.