It’s Shaping Up to Be the Year of Yeehaw
The signs were all there: a disco-cowgirl aesthetic for Renaissance. A Western-inspired Louis Vuitton Grammys look. Even before Beyoncé surprise-announced her new album, Act II, during the Super Bowl, there were whispers among the Beyhive that the record would have a country slant. Then came the first two songs, “Texas Hold ’Em” and “16 Carriages,” both with undeniable twang. The rumors were true: Beyoncé was entering her yeehaw era.
Music Industry Embracing Country Vibes
A week before the Act II news, Lana Del Rey revealed that she too would be releasing a country LP, Lasso. On Grammys night, Kacey Musgraves announced her highly anticipated new album, Deeper Well. The music industry seems to be embracing the country music trend with open arms, showcasing a variety of talented artists.
Cowboy Culture Taking Over
It’s not just music that’s gone honky tonk. Celebrities like Rihanna, the Kardashians, and Victoria Beckham have been spotted embracing cowboy culture, from luxury cowboy hat shops to Western-inspired outfits. The influence of this trend is evident in pop culture and fashion.
Reasons Behind the Trend
Several factors may be contributing to the rise of the “westward ho” trend, including the popularity of shows like Yellowstone and the success of Western-themed movies like Killers of the Flower Moon. Fashion has also played a significant role, with celebrities like Beyoncé setting the stage for a cowboy chic aesthetic.
Country Music’s Evolution
Country music has always been popular, but it has also been criticized for being insular and resistant to change. Artists like Maren Morris and Cassadee Pope have spoken out against the genre’s lack of social progress, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse industry.
Reclaiming Blackness in Country Music
Beyoncé’s foray into country music with Act II is seen as a reclaiming of Blackness in the genre. Her impact has been significant, with “Texas Hold ’Em” making her the first Black woman to reach number one on Billboard’s country chart. As the yeehaw trend continues to evolve, the industry may see a shift towards more diverse and inclusive narratives.
Conclusion
As we embrace the yeehaw-ification of 2024, it’s clear that country vibes are here to stay. Whether it’s through music, fashion, or culture, the cowboy chic trend is making its mark in the mainstream. As we look forward to the release of new albums and the evolution of country music, one thing is certain: the yeehaw era is in full swing!
YEE — and I cannot stress this enough — HAW
— van cartier (@christopherXCI_) February 12, 2024