Duncan, Oklahoma – A US radio station in Oklahoma faced backlash after refusing to play a listener’s Beyoncé request, citing its status as a “country music station.” The decision was met with accusations of racism and discrimination from the fan who made the request, sparking a social media frenzy and calls for the station to reconsider its stance.
The controversy over the song, “Texas Hold ‘Em,” by Beyoncé, prompted KYKC-FM to reevaluate its position. The fan’s post, shared by @BeyLegion, quickly gained traction, drawing attention to the station’s response and the broader issue of genre classification in the music industry.
Amidst the public outcry, the station’s manager acknowledged Beyoncé’s status as an “icon” and revealed that the hit song had been added to the station’s country music playlist, as well as those of two other stations under its management. This move signified a shift in perspective and a recognition of Beyoncé’s foray into country music.
The general manager of South Central Oklahoma Radio Enterprises, Roger Harris, clarified that the station was unaware of Beyoncé’s country music releases and had initially provided a “standard reply” to the fan. However, after receiving numerous requests and listening to the song, the station concluded that it indeed had a country sound.
Harris emphasized that the station holds no bias against Beyoncé and expressed support for artists exploring various genres. He highlighted the importance of good music transcending genre boundaries, stating, “If it’s good music, it’s good music.”
In response to the overwhelming demand for the song, the station announced its decision to play “Texas Hold ‘Em” on air, signaling a positive outcome from the public discourse. The song’s popularity on streaming platforms further underscored the relevance and appeal of Beyoncé’s venture into country music among a diverse audience.
The incident serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of music genres and the importance of inclusivity in radio programming. It also highlights the power of social media in driving conversations and influencing decisions within the music industry. As Beyoncé continues to push boundaries and defy genre conventions, her impact on country music may pave the way for greater diversity and acceptance within the genre.