Beyoncé Knowles-Carter is the subject of a new CNN documentary titled “Call Me Country: Beyoncé & Nashville’s Renaissance,” set to premiere on Max. The documentary delves into Beyoncé’s recent foray into country music through her latest album, “Cowboy Carter,” and examines its broader impact on the music industry. This exploration is particularly focused on the evolving discourse around the inclusion of Black musicians in the country music genre.
“Call Me Country” is part of CNN FlashDocs and is scheduled for release in late April, nearly a month after Beyoncé dropped her eighth studio album. The documentary not only showcases Beyoncé’s venture but also features prominent Black figures in the country music scene, including Rhiannon Giddens who appears on the track “Texas Hold ‘Em.” Other notable artists featured include John and T.J. Osborne of Brothers Osborne and Rissi Palmer, enriching the documentary with diverse perspectives and experiences within the industry.
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The film captures insights from culture and music experts like Toure?, Larisha Paul, and Chris Molanphy, offering a comprehensive look at the current state of country music. These interviews are interspersed with comments from co-directors of the Black Opry, Holly G. and Tanner D., adding depth to the narrative of ongoing cultural shifts within this musical genre.
Warner Bros. Discovery, the parent company, describes the documentary as occurring amid a “revolution within country music” which serves as the latest battleground in America’s culture wars. The film addresses the industry’s dichotomy—between welcoming diversity and adhering to traditional, narrow views of a genre dominated by straight, white men. It highlights how influential artists like Lil Nas X and Beyoncé are challenging the status quo, fostering a more inclusive narrative.
“Call Me Country” is set to contribute significantly to the conversation about diversity and representation in country music, emphasizing the foundational work by Black artists in Nashville. This documentary not only explores Beyoncé’s personal journey and artistic influence but also frames a broader discussion on the genre’s evolution and the challenges faced by artists breaking conventional boundaries. The full documentary will be available for streaming on April 26, promising to offer an insightful look into the intersections of music, culture, and race.
