Country music royal Carlene Carter is embracing Beyoncé‘s escapade into country music — she even goes so far as to claim her into the Carter family’s century-long legacy.
“She is an incredibly talented and creative woman who obviously wanted to do this because she likes country music,” Carter notes in a statement about Beyoncé, who dubs her new Cowboy Carter album more of a Beyoncé album than a country project.
“In my book, she’s one of us Carter women and we have always pushed the boundaries by trying whatever music we felt in our hearts and taking spirit-driven risks,” Carter adds.
In addition to addressing the negativity that has been directed toward Cowboy Carter, the country veteran sent a message to Beyoncé directly.
“I am here to let Beyoncé and to all those naysayers know that I admire and love her and all she does,” Carter declares. “I am delighted to know that Carter spunk is in her just like it’s been through nearly 100 years of us Carters choosing to follow ours hearts, hearts that are filled with love not just for country music but for all kinds of music.”
“Here’s a warm welcome to the Carter Girl Club! It’s only a matter of time before those naysayers become Bey-sayers.”
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Who Is the Carter Family of Country Music?
The Carter Family are listed among the pioneers of country music in America. Comprised of Sarah Carter, her husband A.P. and her sister-in-law Maybelle, the trio were actively releasing music as early as the 1920s.
One of Maybelle’s daughters is June Carter Cash, who was a country artist in her own right before she married fellow country singer Johnny Cash. Carlene is the daughter of June and her first husband, Carl Smith.
What is Beyonce’s Real Name?
Beyoncé’s new album, Cowboy Carter, is named after her venture into country music, as well as her married name, Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter.
She married rapper Jay-Z, whose real name is Shawn Carter, in 2008.
Cowboy Carter arrived on Friday, March 29. The 27-track project features numerous collaborations with artist like Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Post Malone, Miley Cyrus, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy, Reyna Roberts and more.
Beyonce, ‘Cowboy Carter’ Album: 16 Things You Need to Know
Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album is a massive collaboration that features country, pop, hip-hop, opera and more. Three Country Music Hall of Famers are highlighted among the 10 pairings (on 27 songs).
Here are 16 things you need to know as you listen.
Gallery Credit: Billy Dukes