Beyoncé’s 'Cowboy Carter' reinforces her dedication to Black reclamation — and country music

LOS ANGELES (AP) — First, Beyoncé arrived at the 2024 Grammy Awards in full cowboy regalia — making a statement without saying a word. Then, during the Super Bowl, she dropped two hybrid country songs: “Texas Hold ’Em” and “16 Carriages.” All of that heralded her latest album, “Act ll: Cowboy Carter,” out Friday. As a Black woman reclaiming country music, she stands in opposition to stereotypical associations of the genre with whiteness. The genre, though, has its roots in Black traditions and culture and Beyoncé's album pays homage to some of her forerunners and influences, like Linda Martell.