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Country music, a genre deeply rooted in tradition and storytelling, has long been associated with twangy guitars, tales of heartbreak, and a sense of rural Americana. However, as music evolves, so do its boundaries, leading to debates about who truly belongs in the genre. Two artists—Beyoncé and Jelly Roll—have sparked discussions about what defines a “legit” country artist. Let’s dive into both sides of the debate.

Beyoncé, primarily known for her work in R&B and pop, made a surprising yet impactful entry into the country music world with her song “Daddy Lessons” from the album Lemonade. The track features a blend of blues, gospel, and country, drawing heavily on the genre’s storytelling tradition. She even performed the song with the Dixie Chicks (now known as The Chicks) at the 2016 CMA Awards, which lent her some country cred.

Supporters argue that country music is about storytelling and emotion, and Beyoncé’s “Daddy Lessons” is a prime example of both. The song tells a personal story rooted in her Southern upbringing, touching on themes of family, strength, and resilience—classic country themes. If country music is defined by its themes rather than its sound, then Beyoncé’s contribution should be considered legitimate.

Critics of Beyoncé’s foray into country music argue that while “Daddy Lessons” may borrow elements of the genre, it doesn’t make her a country artist. They assert that her music lacks the stylistic consistency with traditional country music, including the instrumentation and vocal style that define the genre. To them, Beyoncé’s inclusion in country music feels more like genre-blending or an experiment rather than a genuine commitment to the country genre.

For purists, being a country artist requires more than one song with country influences; it requires a body of work that consistently reflects the genre’s traditions. In this view, Beyoncé’s brief dip into country waters doesn’t qualify her as a legit country artist.

Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, has a background in hip-hop but has increasingly embraced country music. His 2021 album Ballads of the Broken combines elements of country, rock, and hip-hop, resonating with a wide audience. Songs like “Son of a Sinner” showcase his raw, honest songwriting—a hallmark of country music. His music often explores themes of redemption, struggle, and personal growth, which align with the core values of country storytelling.

Supporters of Jelly Roll argue that the genre has always evolved and incorporated new influences, from the bluesy roots of Hank Williams to the pop-country crossover hits of Shania Twain. They see Jelly Roll as part of this tradition of evolution, bringing a fresh, modern perspective to country music. His authenticity and the emotional depth of his lyrics make him a legitimate country artist, even if his sound isn’t purely traditional.

On the flip side, some country fans are skeptical of Jelly Roll’s place in the genre. They argue that his music leans too heavily on other genres, particularly hip-hop, and lacks the distinctive sounds that define country music. To them, Jelly Roll’s style feels like a hybrid rather than a true representation of the genre.

Critics also point to the commercialization of country music, where artists from other genres dabble in country to reach a broader audience without truly committing to the genre’s roots. In this light, Jelly Roll’s shift to country could be seen as opportunistic rather than a genuine expression of the country ethos.

The debate over whether Beyoncé and Jelly Roll are legitimate country artists ultimately boils down to how one defines the genre. If country music is about the themes, emotions, and stories it tells, then both artists have made contributions that resonate with the genre’s core. However, if country is defined by its traditional sound and stylistic elements, then their inclusion becomes more contentious.

Country music, like all genres, is constantly evolving. The question of legitimacy may be less about strict definitions and more about how the music resonates with listeners and reflects the ever-changing landscape of the genre. In the end, perhaps the true spirit of country music lies not in who sings it, but in the stories it tells and the hearts it touches. I just wish Beyoncé collaborated with more legit country artists on the album instead of Post Malone and Miley Cyrus. How about Moran Wallen or Megan Moroney?

#Beyoncé #Jelly Roll #Cowboy Carter #Self Medicated #Country Music #CMA #ACM #Morgan Wallen #Megan Moroney