30/03/2024
Some Of You Aren't Ready... My review of Beyonce's "Cowboy Carter".
Right off the top, I'm approaching this review in several different ways: Musician, producer, arranger, one - time Country Radio personality and Radio Station Program Director.
Having said that, while I'm not the biggest Bey fan, I respect her as an artist and performer. If you remember, not long ago, I gave a breakdown as to why she wasn't nominated in this year's "Album Of The Year" Grammy category from the perspective of a one - time Grammy voter. I pointed out that Beyonce' was more of a singles artist. With "Cowboy Carter", all of that may have just changed.
For my money, this is the most complete and cohesive work she's ever done. I would compare it to Janet Jackson's "Rhythm Nation 1814". With this concept project, Mrs. Carter has one narrative and it's consistent throughout its 1 hour and 18 minute run time.
As a producer, one of the things I feared was that this would be another super slick, overly produced affair. Those fears were laid to rest. Beyonce' has always been one of the best studio vocalists because of her incredible strong harmonies. With a lot of this album being stripped down, you're actually able to really hear her performances.
"Cowboy Carter" serves not only as a reclaiming of a genre' that we basically created, it also serves as a history lesson in the evolution of Country Music while challenging you to question what Country Music actually is. While Beyonce' has her critics, she also has some heavyweight support as well. Cameo appearances by "Auntie" Dolly Parton, "Uncle" Willie Nelson and a history making appearance by Linda Martell, the 1st commercially successful Black Woman in Country Music and the 1st to perform at the Grand Ole' Opry.
In "American Requiem", she talks about herself being "too country and not country enough" as she describes not only her issues but the issues of Black performers in the genre'. In one of her vocal parts, she sings in a higher octave than I'm used to hearing. While she pulls it off beautifully, you can also hear the pain in her voice for that split second.
If I had one nitpicking issue, (the producer in me) it would be part of the vocal arrangement on her version of Paul McCartney's classic "Blackbird". The arranger in me though the harmonies came in too early in the song and would've been more effective after the 1st chorus.
"Blackbird", according to Sir Paul, is very much about the Black experience. He wrote it during the Civil Rights era and inferred that it was about Ruby Bridges. In England, "bird" is slang for "girl". Another smart song choice by Mrs. Carter.
"16 Carriages" remains one of my favorites because it's a well written song and the arrangement is simple and effective.
Speaking of the songs, I was really engaged lyrically more than anything, which is atypical for me. These compositions are really good. While I won't go track for track, I will point out my personal favorites.
"Protector" is a sweet ode to Motherhood, delivered in a maternal way that feels nice and warm. Another one of my favorites.
"Texas Hold Em" already speaks for itself. As a matter of fact, I just added it to our playlist on 104.7 WLOU.
Another one of my favorite tracks is "Bodyguard". Beyonce' channels her inner Prince (think "Raspberry Beret') and the California Cool of Sheryl Crow in the most Top 40 sounding track on the album. I wouldn't be surprised if Pop stations started playing it over the summer.
Dolly Parton introduces probably the most controversial track, "Jolene". While Dolly begged her not to take her man, Bey basically threatens to kick her ass if she even tried. I loved the lyrical changes in this. Purists might be upset, but oh well.
My favorite song on this album is "II Most Wanted", her duet with Miley Cyrus. The song takes on a "Thelma & Louise" vibe and the ladies sound incredible together. A sure fire 3rd or 4th release from this album.
"Cowboy Carter" takes you through the different musical genres that led to the formation of what we call "Country". All of it done seamlessly while never letting go of the overall feel of the album.
Other stand out tracks are "Flamenco", "Daughter", "Ya Ya" and "II Hands II Heaven".
One of things I've been able to install in my family is an adventurous musical spirit. They'll openly tell you that I exposed them to artists and genres they wouldn't have found on their own. "Country Carter" is my kind of album.
If you're open - minded or at the very least, curious, check it out. If you're limited in your taste in music, this won't be for you. I haven't been this enthusiastic about a project in a long time, and this was a joy to listen to. If I'm on the Grammy voting committee, I'm looking at an "Album Of The Year" contender.
Mark Gunn
Vice - President of Programming - Aircom Media.
Program Director - 1047 104.7 WLOU
