Beyoncé, the iconic queen of music, has faced a surprising snub from the Country Music Association, or CMA, Awards. She received zero nominations despite the success of her acclaimed album, Cowboy Carter. The nominations, announced on Sept. 9, left fans in disbelief, especially given Beyoncé’s significant contributions to country music and her efforts to elevate Black country musicians.
CMA’s missed opportunity
The CMA Awards are known for honoring the best in country music, but they overlooked one of the industry’s most influential figures. Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter not only became a massive hit but also served as a platform to amplify Black country musicians, showcasing their talent and helping them gain wider recognition. Her efforts to diversify the genre and further uplift new voices make the CMA’s snub even more puzzling.
Who did get nominated?
While Beyoncé was left out, several other artists received multiple nominations. Morgan Wallen leads the pack with seven nods, followed by Post Malone — who gained his stardom in hip-hop before switching genres — with four. Newcomer Shaboozey also made headlines with his first-time nominations for Single of the Year with “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” and New Artist of the Year.
Considering how country music has deep, rich roots in African American culture — with the banjo, a country music staple, originating in Africa — very few Black artists have won any CMA award. According to The Wrap, country legend Charley Pride won Entertainer of the Year back in 1971, making his the first — and only — Black artist to win it. Former Hootie and the Blowfish lead singer Darius Rucker won a CMA Award for Best New Artist in 2020, writes Essence. Singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman won Song of the Year in 2023 for her classic alt-folk song, “Fast Car” — released in 1988 — due to singer Luke Combs’ popular rendition of it.
Beyoncé’s previous recognition
This snub is particularly striking considering Beyoncé’s recent success at the People’s Choice Country Awards, where she topped the nominations list as the female artist with the most nods. The contrast between these accolades and the CMA’s decision raises questions about their criteria for recognizing talent.
The need for inclusivity
As genres continue to blend and evolve, Beyoncé’s influence on country music highlights the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the industry. This year’s CMA Fest’s reported inclusiveness notwithstanding, the CMA’s decision to overlook her contributions may signal a need for the organization to reassess how they approach nominations, ensuring that all voices are heard and celebrated.
