Beyoncé's latest musical creation, "Act Two: Cowboy Carter", was released at the stroke of midnight.
This 27-track album showcases a fusion of genres through collaborations with various artists, including renowned musician Robert Randolph, the frontman of Robert Randolph and the Family Band.
"With the multitude of songs released today, it's evident that she channeled all her creative energy into diverse country collaborations," Randolph commented. "It's like a blend of rock and country."
Robert Randolph, a six-time Grammy nominee and a virtuoso on the pedal steel guitar, has worked with music icons such as Joe Walsh of The Eagles, Dave Matthews, Los Lobos, and blues legend Buddy Guy.
Recalling the moment he was approached to contribute to Beyoncé's project, Randolph mentioned he was casually grilling at home. Beyoncé's recent chart-topper, "Texas Hold 'Em," debuted last month, making her the first Black woman to achieve a No. 1 single on the Hot Country Songs chart.
"When I got the call, I was taken aback. 'Play on Beyoncé's album? Is this for real? What will I contribute? Maybe a twist on "Bootylicious" or something?'" Randolph humorously recounted.
During their collaboration on the track "16 Carriages," Randolph shared how they experimented with different approaches to the song, pushing him to adapt his usual style.
"Oh yeah, I had to work on some country licks," he mentioned.
Beyoncé's latest album sheds light on the often overlooked Black pioneers of country music. Randolph expressed how she is paving the way for emerging artists.
"For the last 20, 30 years, there's been a lot of Black country artists trying to break through out of Nashville," he noted. "Many have moved there, and just the fact that she's sort of hinted at releasing a record and now that it's out, she's given all of those people newfound hope."
