Britney Spears Is Finally Working On A New Album, Here's Everything We Know

What is the history of country music?

The Carter Family may be known as the first family of country music, but they didn’t create the popularized sound. Country music is heavily influenced by blues and gospel that their associate — Black guitarist Lesley Riddle — introduced them to. Riddle himself was taught by his uncle and simply put his own signature twist on what he’d learned. After meeting A.P. Carter, the two developed a friendship and Riddle even taught Maybelle Carter a few things. Besides Riddle, musicians such as Gus Cannon (“Banjo Joe”) and Rufus Payne (“Tee Tot”) also had an influence on country music’s sound. Time made sure to dig deeper and found that the banjo actually even derives from West African lutes which became a huge part of music in southern states.

Interestingly enough, harmonica player DeFord Bailey began playing what he called “Black hillbilly music” and — according to National Geographic — was the first person to perform on the Grand Ole Opry. National Geographic also mentioned how Black artists such as Ray Charles, Tina Turner, and Millie Jackson dabbled in country music, proving that Beyoncé is NOT using this genre as a quick cash grab. As a matter of fact, Black rappers like Snoop Dogg and Nelly have their own country songs. I mean, I’m still listening to Nelly’s song with Tim McGraw called “Over and Over.”

What inspired Beyoncé to write "Cowboy Carter?"

Beyoncé recorded "Daddy Lessons" for her album Lemonade in 2016 and even performed it with The Chicks at the CMAs, but not all country fans were happy about it. Los Angeles Times pointed out that someone went as far as to say that the entertainer didn't belong there. While that’s bad enough, Apparently she experienced more backlash behind the scenes. However, learning the brief history of the genre with a quick google search would dispel that sentiment.

Although she didn't explicitly refer to this experience, but it's heavily implied in a lengthy caption on Instagram that details her inspiration for creating this album stem from it. She wrote, "This album has been over five years in the making. It was born out of an experience that I had years ago where I did not feel welcomed…and it was very clear that I wasn’t. But, because of that experience, I did a deeper dive into the history of Country music and studied our rich musical archive...The criticisms I faced when I first entered this genre forced me to propel past the limitations that were put on me. act ii is a result of challenging myself, and taking my time to bend and blend genres together to create this body of work."

Beyoncé's from Houston, Texas — home of The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo — with parents that are from Alabama and Louisiana. To tell a Black person who's from the south that they don't belong in country settings doesn't make sense. But, it still makes me smile knowing Black country artists continue building on the pillars of those who came before them. That they're making sure all voices are heard whether others want to validate it or not.

Black Country Artists Featured on 'Cowboy Carter'

Tanner Adell

I first came across Tanner Adell’s music via Instagram when I heard her catchy song “Buckle Bunny,” realizing it featured a familiar twang I love. As told to Utah Valley University, she shared how their commercial music program helped her hone her voice and performance skills. BET also learned that Adell attended many demolition derbys where she bore witness to her mom’s status as a rodeo queen.

She’s grown her fan base over the years with songs like “Honky Tonk Heartbreak” and “FU-150,” but it’s interesting that one line in “Buckle Bunny” seemed to serve as a manifestation tool. She went from singing, “Lookin’ like Beyoncé with a lasso” to literally being featured on “AMERICAN REQIUEM” and “BLACKBIIRD.”

She expressed her joy at going from attending one of Beyoncé’s concerts to being featured on the album with a heartfelt TikTok. She told W Magazine, “Everyone has the ability to manifest their dreams, and I don’t think I’m different. I’ve been working really hard the last couple of years to get my music and my presence to a place where I’d be ready when someone like Beyoncé gives me the green light…”

You won’t have to wait long to hear more of her music because her new single “Whiskey Blues” debuts April 12! Be sure to pre-save it on Spotfiy or Apple Music!

Brittney Spencer

Brittney Spencer is certainly no stranger to country music with her cover of The Highwomen’s “Crowded Table” and her song “Sober & Skinny.” She told Billboard, “Being Black, a woman, and not a size 2 has certainly presented additional obstacles on my musical journey here in Nashville.” Yet, she hasn’t let any challenges she’s faced deter her from sharing her musical gifts in the world of country music.

Vibe shared that she’s gone on to perform with artists like Reba McEntire which would make anyone’s journey feel worthwhile. As far as how she feels about being on Cowboy Carter, she wrote a genuine caption on Instagram that says, “i’ve typed and deleted at least 10 captions. i don’t hv anything clever or curated to say. i’m on a beyonce record. the album is a masterpiece. ily @beyonce 🐝🌻.”

Tiera Kennedy

Tiera Kennedy describes her music as “an earnest storytelling-based country laced with the influence of R&B.” Her single “Found It In You” is the perfect example of this as she sings about the love she has for her husband and creative director Kamren Kennedy. She’s the host of Apple Music Country and has been named as Nashville Scene declaring that she’s the “total package.”

Her new single “I Ain’t a Cowgirl” debuts April 26, 2024!

Reyna Roberts

One of the other black country artists that should definitely be on your radar is Reyna Roberts, an Alaskan native with a sound that’s equal parts sugar and spice. She released “Raised Right” in 2021 and it echoes this sentiment with lyrics like, “I'm a little bit of whiskey in my sweet tea.” She was featured in Amazon Prime’s documentary about black country artists called For Love & Country and went on to release her debut album Bad Girl Bible, Vol. 1 last year.

She also captured a sweet moment where she told one of her besties that she’s featured on Cowboy Carter on Instagram. She captioned the video, “Episode 1: Telling one of my best friends that I’m on Cowboy Carter! We’ve been dreaming about this day since we were 8 years old!!💙🥹🎉”

Shaboozey

Known for fusing the sounds of hip-hop and country, Shaboozey lends his flow to parts of “SPAGHETTII” and “SWEET HONEY BUCKIIN’” on Cowboy Carter. One of my favorite lyrics of his in the latter song is, “It don’t matter what nobody says. Country boy ‘til the day that I’m dead.” But what the artist is most known for is his own body of work.

His released his EP Cowboys Live Forever, Outlaws Never Die in 2022 and garnered popularity with the single “Beverly Hills.” If you need more of his music in your life, his new album Where I’ve Been, isn’t Where I’m Going debuts May 31!

Willie Jones

Louisiana born country artist Willie Jones may be featured on “JUST FOR FUN,” but his voice flowed through our phones via TikTok before this. After he wowed judges and the audience of The Voice in 2012, he went on to release songs like “Back Porch” and “Down by the Riverside” that also blend the sounds of hip-hop and country.

It just goes to show that country can still maintain the sounds of what it’s known for, but it can also complement other genres.

Linda Martell

Last but not least, queen Linda Martellis featured talking on “SPAGHETTII” & “THE LINDA MARTELL SHOW,” which briefly shed light on how much she contributed to country music. According to her website, she was the “first commercially successful Black female artist in country music.” She was also the first black woman to hit the stage at the Grand Ole Opry.

It’s great to see that she’s finally getting her flowers in such a mainstream way. It’s also telling that people are discrediting an album that she’s featured on.

Grand Marnier Ranch Water Cocktail

Ranch water is a staple when it comes to classic cocktail recipes, and it reminds us of the country vibes that Beyoncé is putting out with Cowboy Carter. This version from Grand Marnier elevates the OG recipe in the tastiest way! To make it, mix 1.5 oz Espolon Blanco tequila, 0.75 oz Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge, and 0.5 oz fresh lime juice in a Collins glass. Top it off with Topo Chico and a lime wheel to get to sippin'. (via Grand Marnier)

Bee's Knees

Beyoncé is Queen B after all, which is why the Bee's Knees cocktail is the perfect celebration of her queendom! Crafted primarily with gin, lemon juice, and honey, you and your squad will be buzzing to try this zesty Beyoncé cocktail. (via Mixop)

Snake River Sour

Using whiskey hailing from Wyoming, this drink taps into some serious wild west energy. To make it, shake 1.5 oz Wyoming Whiskey Small Batch Bourbon, 0.5 oz fresh lime juice, 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice, and 0.5 oz simple syrup over ice. Then, remove the ice and add 1 egg white to the mix, and shake. Strain into a coupe glass, add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters, then garnish with a few cherries to seal the deal. This boozy libation will have you yellin' "yeehaw" in no time! (via Wyoming Whiskey)

YoCo Vodka's "Texas Hold ‘Em"

This rootin'-tootin' Texas Hold 'Em cocktail is filled with vodka and bourbon for an extra-special kick. To make it, stir 1 oz YoCo Vodka, 1 oz bourbon, 0.5 oz honey syrup, 0.5 oz Amaro Nonino, and 2 dashes of cinnamon bitters over ice. Strain into a glass and garnish with a cherry! (via YoCo Vodka)

The Hoedown

This fruity Hoedown will wanna make you throw down! Infused with a tasty ginger-cinnamon-balsamic syrup (you can also just use freshly-grated ginger if you're not into crafting your own syrup mix), it's sure to get the Cowboy Carter listening party goin'. To make it, shake 1 oz High West Double Rye, 1 oz Ancho Reyes, 0.25 oz Fernet Branca, 0.5 oz ginger-cinnamon-balsamic syrup, 0.75 oz strawberry juice, 0.5 oz lemon juice, and 3 dashes mezcal over ice. Strain and serve over large ice cubes to keep things country-cool! (via High West Whiskey)

Berry Bourbon Lemonade Pitcher Cocktail

Channeling the energetic zest of Beyoncé's Lemonade era, this batched cocktail is such an easy make for a bigger crowd. If you're hosting some friends ahead of Cowboy Carter, this berry-filled bourbon concoction will satisfy everyone at the party – and also pump the vibes up. (via Crowded Kitchen)

Smoked Whiskey

Giddy up, partner! 🤠 Whiskey is undeniably cowboy-esque, and this smoked version is even more so, bringing forth woodiness and a boozy bite in every sip. If you don't have the proper wood chips to lend the smoky effect, you can also burn rosemary, cinnamon, sage, or vanilla to offer unique flavors! (via Mixop)

Cowboy Coffee

Wake yourself up with this coffee cocktail that channels the lively hoedown vibes of "Texas Hold 'Em"!This Beyoncé cocktail is a simple build with 4 ingredients total. To make it, add 0.5 oz simple syrup and 1.5 oz High West Bourbon to a mug. Fill with brewed coffee and top with whipped cream! (via High West Whiskey)

YoCo Vodka's "Cowboy Carter"

Hold onto your cowgirl hat, because this bev is one heck of a good time! Here's how to make it: in a shaker with no ice, shake 1.25 oz YoCo Vodka, 0.75 oz Mezcal, 0.5 oz Licor 43, 0.5 oz lime juice, 1 egg white, and 2 dashes of Peychaud’s bitters together. Then, add ice and shake well. Strain into a coupe glass and top with bitters! .(via YoCo Vodka)

Boulevardier

🎶 Lay your cards down, down, down, down 🎶 with this relaxing cocktail that's strong on the bourbon. To make it, shake 1.5 oz Wyoming Whiskey Small Batch Bourbon, 0.75 oz sweet vermouth, and 0.75 oz Campari over ice until chilled. Strain into a glass and garnish with lemon! (via Wyoming Whiskey)

Express Rider

Get ready to slip into your boots and saddle up for wild ride with this whiskey-based drink! To make it, mix 0.5 oz High West Double Rye, 0.5 oz rye whiskey, 0.5 oz Highland Park 12, 0.5 oz sherry, 0.25 oz Campari, 0.75 oz blood orange-infused Carpano Antica, and 2 dash chocolate bitters in a glass with ice. Tastes even better with Cowboy Carter playing in the background! (via High West Whiskey)

Redemption Pear & Spiced Old Fashioned

Dig into country music's rustic roots with this warmly-spiced Old Fashioned from Redemption Whiskey! To make it, stir 2 parts Redemption High Rye Bourbon Finished in Cognac Casks, 0.25 parts allspice liqueur, 0.25 parts Monin pear syrup, and 3 dashes chocolate bitters in a glass with ice. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a pear slice, if you wanna be extra! (via Redemption Whiskey)

Wyoming Mule

Bourbon and ginger beer are a dream come true in this country cocktail. To make it, stir 2 oz Wyoming Whiskey Small Batch Bourbon, 0.25 oz lemon juice, and 1 dash Angostura bitters over ice. Top your glass off with cold ginger beer and garnish with a lemon wedge to complete the drink! (via Wyoming Whiskey)

"Ultimately I could love myself, or I could just be like, 'Here I am,'" Claudia Jessie says. "Most of the time, none of us know what we're really doing anyway. So I think I'm just letting go of any attachment of trying to feel confident."

"You should be confident because everybody loves you," Hannah Dodd counters. "Everybody's obsessed with you! I think, if you surround yourself with the right people as well, like my friends give me confidence, the right people, like your team and you guys."

"'How are you so confident to be so different?' I say at one point to Eloise," Jessica Madsen says. "And when I read that in the script, it was just like [how] I feel about you, and I really mean it...I remember saying it and really feeling like that was 100 percent true from me to you, [Claudia]."

The love is totally reciprocated, and when I ask what the three women would write in their own Lady Whistledown column, Claudia hypes up Jessica's love of music.

"I love music. I love making playlists," Jessica says. "I went through a little stage where Spotify was my everything. I wanted to be a DJ."

"You'd look great as a DJ," Claudia adds. "I don't know your DJ'ing skills yet, but you'd look amazing behind the deck like that."

Hannah adds that they talk a lot about their dogs, and books. "I do love books," Claudia, who just finished Travis Baldree's Legends & Lattes, agrees. "I'm a big reader. Basically I like things that don't mean I have to leave the house. I could talk about the inside of my flat thoroughly. I could write about that, my four walls."

Bridgerton season 3 opens after Eloise's discovery that Lady Whistledown is actually her best friend Penelope Featherington. The middle Bridgerton child has had to keep it a secret all this time, and Claudia Jessie admits she's a good secret keeper, just for a different reason: "I'm good because I forget them immediately," she says.

"I'm like the grave," Jessica Madsen promises.

"I wouldn't say I'm a grave," Hannah Dodd adds. "I just have a group of people that I'm like, 'They don't count.' I will not tell anybody. But like, except for these...one or two very trustworthy people."

In the show, multiple characters' trust in one another is threatened — learning about Penelope's secret identity challenges Eloise's trust in Penelope, and Colin's remarks that he'd never court Pen threaten her trust in him. While we see these relationships evolve in unexpected ways, we also see new sides to characters we thought we knew. Namely, Cresside Cowper.

"Other than, obviously the really sad passing of the Bridgerton dad, Eloise comes from an incredibly sheltered, privileged, happy, nourishing environment where they can all be themselves," Claudia says. "So I think it is really important to see just how different it is [from the Cowper household], cause it also informs us a bit more about how difficult the situation is for Cressida and why she might be colder or a bit closed off."

"[She's] very lonely as well," Jessica adds. "She's got nobody. Not her mum, and definitely not her dad. It's opposite ends of the spectrum."

And while season 3 of Bridgerton is just about to debut, Jessica Madsen, Hannah Dodd, and Claudia Jessie already have dreams for Bridgerton season 4.

"I'd love for Eloise to get political, do you know what I mean?" Claudia says. "I'd love that because there's so much room for Eloise to go there."

"She could be the first Prime Minister!" Jessica chimes in.

"I don't know for Francesca," Hannah says. "I'm so excited to see what the writers come up with. I just hope she steps into herself a little bit more and kind of goes after things that make her happy, and knows that she's deserving of that. But I'm new here. So, like anything they give me, I'm gonna be happy with."

Brit + Co Rapid Fire With The Bridgerton Cast

Brit + Co: We've talked so much about books, what are you all reading?

Claudia Jessie: I just finished a book called Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree. And it literally says on the cover "Low stakes, high cozy vibes"...It was beautiful. Really comforting. It was like a big hug.

Hannah Dodd: I'm reading Yellowface at the moment, and I just finished Lessons in Chemistry. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo [was] good. And that really took me a while to find another book that filled that hole.

Jessica Madsen: I have Dopamine Nation...I love audio books. So I actually have Viola Davis reading to me every night her autobiography, which is amazing.

B+C: What music is on repeat for you at the moment?

CJ: I'm listening to a band called Say She She. They're like three sexy, beautiful girls doing like funk, disco pop. Beautiful, cool stuff. And they're really, really cool.

HD: I'm less cool and very generic. Beyonce's new album and Ariana Grande's new album, and I'm obsessed with Noah Kahan at the moment as well.

JM: I'm a mixed bag. I've got a lot of different stuff that I love. Yeah, I've, I've been listening to a lot of Fat Freddy's Drop cause they've got a great summer vibe. Two Feet I really enjoy...I like jazz. Disco.

B+C: Bridgerton is our next watch, what's the last thing you binge watched?

CJ:Barry, which I think is the best comedy that's ever been written, ever. I know I'm gonna re-watch it as well cause it's just unbelievable. The amount of respect they show that comedy is so beautiful.

HD: I haven't binged anything in a while, but I'm really excited to watch Ripley. And I think the last thing I binged was One Day as well, which left me heartbroken.

JM: I just binge watched — I say binge gently — Yellowstone, so I want to be a cowgirl now, really badly. I want to live in denim for the rest of my life, in cowboy boots, badly. And then I just I always put Schitt's Creek on. I've watched it 10 times now, which is embarrassing. I love it. We need laughter. We need fun.

B+C: What's on your summer 2024 bucket list?

JM: I would love to get on a beach. I wanna be on a beach for a bit and just feel the sand and the sea.

HD: I'd just like to get through this part of my life, which is quite exciting and new for me and I don't know. I wouldn't say no to a beach either.

CJ: Just a load of iced coffees. That's great when that season comes around, you can have iced coffee. That's like my favorite cause I kid myself into thinking it's not the same amount of caffeine as a hot coffee, so I'm like 'I can have three!' and then I'm rattling.