Houston, Texas – Beyoncé fans and critics alike are buzzing with excitement over the release of her newest album, Cowboy Carter. The highly anticipated country-inspired album, Beyoncé’s eighth studio release, has received rave reviews since its launch on Friday. Critics such as Guardian’s Alexis Petridis and Page Six critic Nicholas Hautman have praised the album for its fresh take on country music, with Hautman even referring to it as “the revival that country music so desperately needed.”
One fan on social media platform X raved that Beyoncé did not disappoint with Cowboy Carter, while another user noted that her voice has never sounded better. The album features collaborations with iconic artists like Miley Cyrus and Post Malone, as well as covers of classics like Dolly Parton’s Jolene and The Beatles’ Blackbird. Country music legends Willie Nelson and Linda Martell also make appearances on the project.
Reviewers have applauded Beyoncé’s ability to seamlessly blend country and pop genres, with Petridis highlighting her technical mastery and unique musical style. Despite the album consisting of 27 tracks, some critics like Will Hodgkinson of The Times suggested that it may have been more effective split into two separate releases. Hodgkinson, however, lauded the album as a “slick and starry Western epic” filled with “fun and adventure.”
Hautman described Cowboy Carter as “instantly timeless” and a “soulful celebration of Southern values and the genre’s African American roots.” Many reviewers have also noted Beyoncé’s disclaimer that the album is more of a “Beyoncé album” than a traditional country release. The album’s success was foreshadowed by the hit singles “Texas Hold ‘Em” and “16 Carriages,” both of which topped charts and marked Beyoncé’s official entry into the country music scene.
Beyoncé herself has shared that the album was inspired by an experience where she felt unwelcome, prompting her to explore the history of country music. Expressing gratitude to her fans for their support, the powerhouse singer has once again proven her ability to captivate audiences across genres. Cowboy Carter has solidified Beyoncé’s status as a versatile and innovative artist in the music industry, leaving fans eager for more.