TRACK BY TRACK: Beyoncé's 'Cowboy Carter'

There is a new Country Queen in town, folks. Cowboy Carter has finally arrived and so has Beyoncé's Country Era. The album is a passion project full of beautiful storytelling and exciting collaborations. To celebrate the album’s release, we’re going to take you through Bey's new journey track by track! 

1. "AMERIICAN REQUIEM"

The album opens with a melodic intro of layered vocals. After the brief intro to ease listeners into the song, Beyoncé pairs acoustic guitar with twangy vocals. The song powerfully uses Beyoncé’s own experiences as a Black woman in the spotlight to remind listeners of the prevalence of racism in the United States. She speaks to the criticism she faced as an up-and-coming artist for having Southern roots, and then shares how now the narrative has flipped to her not being country enough. “AMERIICAN REQUIEM” is a strong start to the album. It is a gentle introduction into the genre shift from Beyoncé’s previous work, and it emphasizes why she felt compelled to create this type of album. Beyoncé has never shied away from stylistic experimentation, and this is a wonderful extension of that.

Favorite lyrics: “Nothin' really ends / For things to stay the same, they have to change again…”

2. "BLACKBIIRD" (feat. Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy, and Reyna Roberts)

This track is a cover of the iconic song by The Beatles. Paul McCartney wrote the song in response to the Civil Rights Movement as a symbolic expression of hope. In that spirit, Beyoncé chose to feature four incredible Black country artists who are on the rise. The cover is beautiful, and it is made even more meaningful as a celebration of the work these women have put in to get where they are. The modern country genre does not have a reputation for uplifting Black women, but this song and album provide hope that the genre will give them the high praise and recognition they deserve. The Beatles have been covered time and time again through the years, and not every cover has done the original justice, but this one absolutely does. 

Favorite lyrics: “Take these broken wings and learn to fly…”

3. "16 CARRIAGES"

“16 CARRIAGES” is a storytelling ballad. The song details family troubles, loss of innocence, and retention of faith. Country is a reflective genre that leads people to examine their roots and their path. This song does exactly that. It has a soft start but builds as it progresses. Beyoncé’s vocals are subdued as the song begins, but she picks up the speed as the urgency of her lyrics increases. The instrumentals also grow more theatrical as the vocals become more powerful. The song has a stunning rise and fall of tone. Not only can you hear the story in the lyrics, but you can hear it in that rise and fall. The story starts and ends on a calmer note, but it reaches the height of intensity somewhere in the middle. It truly encapsulates the genre.

Favorite lyrics: “They won't dim my light, all these years I fight…”

4. "PROTECTOR" (feat. Rumi Carter)

This track is a tribute from Beyoncé to her children, beginning with a spoken introduction from her youngest daughter, Rumi. The song is soft and sweet. Beyoncé promises protection to her children while acknowledging the growth they will undergo throughout their own through lives. She reflects upon her pride in motherhood, and it makes for a track that emanates warmth.

Favorite lyrics: “There's a long line of hands carryin' your name / Liftin' you up, so you will be raised…”

5. "MY ROSE"

This interlude is only a minute long, and it features Beyoncé’s layered vocals. It is a quick-paced, short and sweet sentiment. Beyoncé sings about the importance of self acceptance and love. It is a vulnerable track with a strong message.

Favorite lyrics: “So many roses but none to be picked without thorns / So be fond of your flaws, dear…”

6. "SMOKE HOUR * WILLIE NELSON" (feat. Willie Nelson)

This interlude track begins with snippets of various songs intended to sound like someone switching between radio stations. The legendary Willie Nelson lent his voice to this track to imitate a radio show host. He gives the audience permission to let themselves ease into the music and feel it freely. He also tells those who are disinterested to go listen to something else. This is a fun transition between songs that gives the album a more retro feel, likely in reference to the older musicians Beyoncé has been inspired by.

Favorite lyrics: “Now for this next tune, I want y'all to sit back, inhale / And go to the good place your mind likes to wander off to…”

7. "TEXAS HOLD ‘EM"

“TEXAS HOLD ‘EM” brings up the tempo! This is a song to dance to at your local bar or rodeo event, a celebration of Beyoncé’s Southern roots. She even refers to it as a boogie and a hoedown. This song served as one of the album’s lead singles, and we can tell why. It’s fun, danceable, and clearly showcases Beyoncé’s love of country. She wants to make sure everyone remembers who she is and where she came from. The playful, poppy hit reached number one on Billboard’s Hot 100 Chart and on the Hot Country Songs Chart. The latter made Beyoncé the first Black woman to have a country song top a Billboard chart. This song is a bop and it is a reminder of how brilliant of an artist Queen Bey is.

Favorite lyrics: “'Cause we survivin' / Off red cup kisses, sweet redemption, passin' time, yeah…”

8. "BODYGUARD"

“BODYGUARD” has a '90s R&B vibe, and in it Beyoncé offers her lover protection as a symbol of the strength of their bond. The song is more relaxed in comparison to the bigger ballads or more danceable tracks, but it is a standout on the album. There is a funky beat behind Beyoncé’s brightly-toned vocals that give the song an upbeat tone. The backing vocals featured throughout the song are pretty and delicate and serve as a mellow contrast as Beyoncé’s lead vocals grow firmer at the song’s end. The song’s message and delivery are lovely. This song makes you want to sit in the sun to feel the warmth and joy of life. 

Favorite lyrics: “I protect you in the mosh pit / And I'll defend you in the gossip…”

9. "DOLLY P" (feat. Dolly Parton)

This interlude is less than thirty seconds long and serves as an introduction to Beyonce’s take on Dolly Parton’s classic “Jolene”. The instrumentals of “Jolene” can be heard in the background while Parton speaks. Parton references a line in Beyoncé’s 2016 hit “Sorry”, and she relates the lyric to her own song. 

Favorite lyrics: “Hey miss Honey B, it’s Dolly P…”

10. "JOLENE"

Beyoncé’s “JOLENE” sees a protagonist who is reaffirming the strength of her relationship. She is self-assured and makes sure “Jolene” knows she will not end up with the protagonist’s man! Beyoncé’s song urges caution to the other woman, where Parton’s version is a plea. The changed elements from the original have made the song divisive among fans. Regardless, Beyoncé delivers strong vocals and a fresh take on the track. Dolly Parton is an icon, and “Jolene” is a highly-regarded song. Beyoncé’s version may not be entirely faithful to the original, but it fits in thematically with her album as a whole. It works well as part of this cohesive body of art.

Favorite lyrics: “But you don't want this smoke, so shoot your shot with someone else (You heard me)...”

11. "DAUGHTER"

“DAUGHTER” is another reflective track where the lyrics reflect on the narrator’s father and his actions while separating herself from the narrative. In line with the urgency and threat of “JOLENE”, Beyoncé sings about embodying the violence that has been passed down. This track is unique from the rest of the album. The bridge features operatic vocals, and the use of lyrics from an Italian opera was a beautiful touch that solidified the emotions within the song.

Favorite lyrics: “I sashayed my dress / Did my best impression of a damsel in distress…”

12. "SPAGHETTII" (feat. Linda Martell and Shaboozey)

“SPAGHETTII” is a combination of genres, with Beyoncé blending elements of country, rap, and R&B. The track begins with Linda Martell commenting on the confines of genre. Beyoncé has made it clear that she will not be tied down to one genre, and this album represents that. The country elements of the album are distinct, but they do not feel out of place among the rest of her discography. The album is a love letter to Beyoncé’s roots, and this track stands to incorporate various genres that Beyoncé has embraced.

Favorite lyrics: “I ain't no regular singer, now come get everythin' you came for…”

13. "ALLIIGATOR TEARS"

“ALLIIGATOR TEARS” brings us back into the country vibe. The lyrics are emotional and portray vulnerability in a relationship while it examines the complexity in loving a partner you don’t entirely trust. Beyoncé expresses her love but is conflicted about her investment since she is not certain her partner is reciprocating that love. The song is sad and honestly difficult to listen to in comparison to the other songs. It’s so raw. Whereas in “JOLENE” we see ferocity, in “ALLIGATOR TEARS” we see vulnerability. This album is complex, and this song adds layers to a delicate situation.

Favorite lyrics: “Somethin' 'bout those tears of yours / How does it feel to be adored?...”

14. "SMOKE HOUR II" (feat. Willie Nelson)

This interlude welcomes back the legend, Willie Nelson. He again serves as a radio show host encouraging the audience to broaden their musical horizons. Many listeners of this album may not traditionally be country fans, but they’re willing to take a chance for Beyoncé. Nelson uses the album as proof that sometimes an unexpected source can take you out of your comfort zone and introduce you to something you would like.

Favorite lyrics: “Sometimes you don't know what you like until someone you trust turns you on to some real good sh*t…”

15. "JUST FOR FUN" (feat. Willie Jones)

In this song, Beyoncé is steadfast in her faith that time will heal her sorrow. She laments the past but reflects upon her roots guiding her through rough times. The song features gorgeous harmonizing vocals and a steady, slow tempo. Beyoncé’s vocals are in her lower register to reflect the somber nature of the lyrics, while Willie Jones’s gruff vocals compliment Beyoncé’s as they sing together. The chorus of voices give the song a gospel music feel, which is in line with the theme of faith that the track projects.

16. "II MOST WANTED" (feat. Miley Cyrus)

This track features actress and singer Miley Cyrus, who herself has country roots (and also a well-received cover of "Jolene" under her belt), as her dad is country singer Billy Ray Cyrus and her godmother is the iconic Dolly Parton. Cyrus and Beyoncé sing together throughout the track, and Cyrus’s lower, gritty vocals suit this country song well. Both singers put in some gruff inflection in the chorus, which adds a level of intensity to this otherwise lowkey song. The instrumentals are subdued to allow these incredible vocalists to shine. This is a collaboration pop fans have been dreaming of, and the wait was worth it.

Favorite lyrics: “Didn't know what I want 'til I saw your face / Say goodbye to the old me…”

17. "LEVII’S JEANS" (feat. Post Malone)

This is a highly sensual pop song that maintains an uptempo beat as Beyoncé and Post Malone sing barely-veiled innuendos. After several songs about relationship insecurity, this song is the make-up/make-out track. The vocalists provide some bluesy rhythms which make the song feel at home on this album despite its departure from the country sound. Beyoncé is a highly versatile artist, so it is wonderful to hear her alongside an artist like Post Malone, who has also ventured out into various styles of music.

Favorite lyrics: “Need you all night long, you're my Renaissance…”

18. "FLAMENCO"

“FLAMENCO” is a short but memorable track. The soft guitar and Beyoncé’s journey through her vocal range make this a song you want to put on repeat. Lyrically, the song continues with themes present through the rest of the album. Beyoncé focuses on faith, the healing power of time, and taking solace in love.

Favorite lyrics: “My soul is reminding me that we're forever young…”

19. "THE LINDA MARTELL SHOW" (feat. Linda Martell)

This under-30-second interlude features the voice of Linda Martell, an innovative country artist in the '70s, and she is the perfect feature on an album like this. In celebrating her roots, Beyoncé is also praising the artists that have inspired her along the way. This track again asserts that Beyoncé will not allow her music to be put in a box.

Favorite lyrics: “This particular tune stretches across a range of genres / And that's what makes it a unique listening experience…”

20. "YA YA"

“YA YA” is a bold song, and it is fabulous. Beyoncé pulls from rock and blues sounds common in the '50s and '60s. The song has a retro vibe, but it also feels entirely modern. It is a song that compels listeners to get up and dance. The song beckons back to the album’s opening track in its reminder of the racism that has been prevalent throughout the United States’ history. Beyoncé celebrates the incredible Black artists that have come before her to push musical boundaries, and this song works to further push those boundaries.

Favorite lyrics: “History can’t be erased…”

21. "OH LOUISIANA"

This interlude track acts as a bridge between “YA YA” and “DESERT EAGLE” and interpolates guitar icon Chuck Berry’s “Oh Louisiana”. Beyoncé is proud of her Louisiana roots on her mother's side, and this album has helped her explore that in a public way.

Favorite lyrics: “How can a true love go so wrong?”

22. "DESERT EAGLE"

“DESERT EAGLE” is another short track and has a funky take on a classic country sound. The lyrics are sexual in nature, with Beyoncé using breathy vocals to make a double meaning out of the do-si-do...

Favorite lyrics: “Baby, she's a whole lotta woman…”

23. "RIIVERDANCE"

This track uses plucky instrumentals and a repetitive lyrical refrain that acts as a beat on its own. The track encourages listeners to dance and further explores the genre-bending sound of the album.

Favorite lyrics: “I died and someone brought me back to life / But never to my senses…”

24. "II HANDS II HEAVEN"

“II HANDS II HEAVEN” is another track that explores faith. Beyoncé sings about spending time in Texas to re-center herself, and the lyrics reflect prayer and faith that everything will make sense when it is supposed to. The song has a fast ticking beat behind it which portrays a sense of urgency. It briefly fades to allow for Beyoncé’s layered vocals to take the spotlight. The lyrics are full of imagery and emotion. Though not a traditional storytelling song, there is a powerful story within this song. The end of the song features a chorus of voices, adding a gospel flair to this spiritually-focused song.

Favorite lyrics: “Lovely daggers pierced my heart many moons ago…”

25. "TYRANT" (feat. Dolly Parton)

The song begins with Parton introducing Cowboy Carter, with a violin over a steady drum beat; the violin adds a unique quality to this song. This song is possibly the most genre-blending track on the album. The lyrics relate back to other songs on the album. The narrator is self-assured in her hold on her relationship. The lyrics are sexually suggestive but also reference the struggle to move forward after being cheated on.

Favorite lyrics: “Dry eyes just send me across the divide…”

26. "SWEET * HONEY * BUCKIIN’"

This song mixes country elements with hip-hop, while the lyrics address how Beyoncé has been snubbed at the GRAMMYs in the past. It is a very direct song, and Beyoncé makes sure to assert her power. This song establishes that she is going to keep going despite any criticism, and it further cements that she will not allow herself to be put in a box. Her music is going to keep evolving, and she will not be put down. This track is true queen behavior.

Favorite lyrics: “Say the things that I know will offend / Wear that sh*t that I know start a trend…”

27. "AMEN"

The album ends with another gospel-inspired song. There are chorus vocals featured once again as Beyoncé pleads for mercy. The brief lyrical verse aside from the chorus is packed with imagery. Beyoncé lets her audience know of the turbulence she has been through to get where she is. The song ends with a perfect tie-in to the start of the album. There is a seamless transition between “AMEN” and “AMERIICAN REQUIEM”, which is perfect because you can’t just listen to this album once. This masterpiece deserves to be looped!

Favorite lyrics: “The statues they made were beautiful / But they were lies of stone, they werе lies of stone…”

This album is a testament to Beyoncé’s strength and creativity. Cowboy Carter is the bridge between her roots and the journey life has taken her on. Beyoncé’s art will not be confined to one genre, and we should all be thankful for that.