The Black country singers Beyoncé should include on Renaissance Act II

With the world buzzing about Beyoncé’s upcoming country album, these are some of the genre’s best Black artists

By Stephanie Holland  |  February 13, 2024 | 9:23pm
Music Features Renaissance
The Black country singers Beyoncé should include on Renaissance Act II
From left: Mickey Guyton, BRELAND, Brittney Spencer Photo: Mindy Small, Elyse Jankowski, Jason Kempin

Though some artists and fans would like you to believe that country music isn’t for Black people, that’s just not true. In fact, Black performers have their fingerprints all over every genre of American music, including country. With Beyoncé expected to put a spotlight on the genre with her next album, Renaissance Act II, we thought it would be a good time to showcase some of country music’s best Black artists.

Stephanie Holland writes for The Root which, like The A.V. Club, is owned by G/O Media

Mickey Guyton
Mickey Guyton - Black Like Me (Our Voices) (Live From The 63rd GRAMMYs®)

Mickey Guyton’s powerful voice and knack for storytelling is reminiscent of artists like Faith Hill and Trisha Yearwood. Her hit “Black Like Me” was released in 2020, just when we needed an anthem encouraging us to be proud of who we are. Her songs are always thoughtful and meaningful, which keeps fans coming back for more of her message.

Darius Rucker
Darius Rucker - Fires Don’t Start Themselves (Official Music Video)

Darius Rucker’s music has an old school George Strait vibe, but still feels modern. It’s the kind of country you can just relax into on a Saturday afternoon.

Tanner Adell
Tanner Adell - Luke Combs (Official Video)

If you’re looking for an artist who seamlessly combines the swag of Latto with the sweetness of Taylor Swift, look no further. Whether she’s invoking first love on “Luke Combs,” or telling the world exactly who she is on “Buckle Bunny,” Tanner Adell is exactly what country needs right now.

Julie Williams
The Prince - Julie Williams (Official Music Video)

One of CMT’s Next Women of Country Class of 2023, Julie Williams has a voice made for country storytelling. She draws you into every moment of the song until you find yourself completely invested, and need to hear all of her songs.

BRELAND
BRELAND - Cowboy Don’t (Music Video)

BRELAND blends the party atmosphere of country with hints of hip-hop, making it feel fresh and unique. This is how country music gets to the next generation without losing what fans love about it.

Loren Ryan
Suddenly - Loren Ryan (Official Music Video)

In addition to showcasing the flirty fun that is a staple of country love songs, Australian singer Loren Ryan also celebrates her culture by singing classics in her Gamilaraay language.

Brittney Spencer
Brittney Spencer - Bigger Than The Song (Official Music Video)

The emotional range Brittney Spencer pours into her music commands the listener to pay attention. There’s a friendly familiarity that you only find in country music.

Kane Brown
Kane Brown, Katelyn Brown - Thank God (Official Music Video)

The authenticity of Kane Brown’s music is what keeps fans coming back. When he sings, it doesn’t feel like it’s a song, he’s just telling you about his life.

RVSHVD
Rvshvd - Small Town Talk

RVSHVD gained fame doing country covers of hip-hop songs on TikTok, but when you listen to the originals, it’s clear this is a traditional country artist in the same vein as Brooks & Dunn or Kenny Chesney.

Rodell Duff
Rodell Duff - Red Dirt Cursed (Official Music Video)

With his everyman quality and instant emotional connection, Rodell Duff is giving serious Tim McGraw vibes.

Reyna Roberts
Reyna Roberts - Miranda (Official Video)

Country music has a long history of strong, badass women who ain’t nothin’ to mess with. And now Reyna Roberts has entered her sound into the chat.

Mike Parker
Mike Parker - Blue Jean Masterpiece (Official Video)

In his sweet love song “Blue Jean Masterpiece” Mike Parker brings a down to Earth vibe that makes the listener feel joyful, which is what you want from a love song.

Rhiannon Giddens
Rhiannon Giddens - Another Wasted Life (Official Video)

Yes Rhiannon Giddens is more of a folk artist than country singer, but there’s no way we could highlight the genre without showcasing her entrancing sound. And since she’s reportedly appearing on “Renaissance Act II,” we want the whole world to know who she is before she completely blows up.

 
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