How Can You Gatekeep a Genre of Music You Didn’t Create?

Where Country Music—and Many Other Genres—Truly Began

The story of country music, like much of America’s cultural landscape, is often marred by revisionist history and the erasure of contributions

from marginalized communities. Contrary to the widespread narrative, country music—alongside blues, jazz, rock and roll, and hip-hop—has deep roots in African traditions. These traditions, brought to the Americas by enslaved Africans, were later enriched by Hispanic, Celtic, and Appalachian folk influences, creating a genre as diverse as its origins.

Many foundational Black artists and figures who shaped country music remain overlooked. Additionally, more recent examples of discrimination within the genre highlight systemic biases. The backlash against the Dixie Chicks when they performed alongside Beyoncé at the CMAs is a telling instance.

This collaboration, meant to bridge gaps and celebrate diversity, instead faced unfounded criticism, revealing ongoing resistance to inclusivity in country music. Similarly, contemporary Black artists like Shaboozy and Tanner continue to struggle for recognition despite their talent and contributions to the genre.

The Banjo: An African Invention

One of country music’s most iconic instruments, the banjo, has its origins in Africa. Enslaved Africans brought the early forms of the banjo—crafted from gourds and animal skins—to the Americas during the transatlantic slave trade. These instruments were integral to preserving African cultural expressions and storytelling traditions. Over time, the banjo became a defining feature of Southern music, though its African roots are often ignored.

In the 1970s, historian Dena J. Epstein’s groundbreaking research confirmed the African origins of the banjo, dismantling myths that labeled it as a purely Appalachian or European creation. Epstein’s findings revealed how enslaved Africans’ rhythmic traditions and improvisational techniques shaped the foundations of country music.

The original designs of the banjo, including its gourd-based body and animal skin head, were innovations of African ingenuity. Over centuries, the instrument’s design evolved but retained the rhythmic essence rooted in African traditions, becoming a staple in early American music.

The First Recorded Black Country Singer

In the late 1800s, George Washington Johnson became one of the first recorded African American artists. His songs, such as “The Laughing Song,” “The Whistling Coon,” and “The Old Apple Tree,” were massive commercial successes of their time. Johnson’s music, while often categorized under “minstrel” music, introduced melodic and storytelling elements that predated the formal commercialization of country music. His contributions paved the way for the genre’s evolution, yet they remain largely overlooked.

From Johnson to DeFord Bailey—the first Black artist to perform at the Grand Ole Opry in the 1920s—Black musicians have played a pivotal role in shaping country music. Despite his popularity as a harmonica virtuoso, Bailey faced systemic racism and was unceremoniously dismissed from the Opry in 1941. These early figures highlight the challenges and erasures faced by Black artists in country music history.

Another overlooked name is Henry “Ragtime Texas” Thomas, who bridged early blues and country music. Born in 1874, Thomas’s use of the quills (a panpipe) and his rhythmic, melodic style greatly influenced country music’s development. His recordings, like “Bull Doze Blues,” echo the sounds that would later define early country and folk.

Unsung Black Pioneers in Country Music

The narrative of country music is incomplete without recognizing the contributions of Black musicians. These unsung pioneers include:

Lesley Riddle: Collaborated with the Carter Family, shaping their sound by collecting and arranging traditional songs. His meticulous transcriptions of folk tunes were instrumental in defining early country music.
Rufus “Tee Tot” Payne: Mentored Hank Williams, whose songwriting and style owe much to Payne’s blues influence. Williams’ iconic sound can be traced directly to Payne’s teachings.
Arnold Shultz: A Kentucky guitarist whose innovative techniques influenced Bill Monroe, the “Father of Bluegrass.” Shultz’s contributions to fingerpicking and improvisational styles laid the groundwork for modern bluegrass.
Henry “Ragtime Texas” Thomas: His incorporation of traditional African instruments like the quills and his rhythmic melodies left a lasting imprint on early country music.
Linda Martell: The first Black woman to perform at the Grand Ole Opry in 1969, known for her hit “Color Him Father.” Martell broke barriers but faced severe industry discrimination that hindered her career.
Charley Pride: One of the few Black artists to achieve mainstream success, with over 30 number-one hits and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Pride’s career stands as a testament to resilience in the face of racial adversity.
Big Al Downing: A versatile pianist and singer blending country with rockabilly and soul, charting hits in the 1970s.
Stoney Edwards: Known for songs like “She’s My Rock,” Edwards was a trailblazer for Black artists in the 1970s country scene.
O.B. McClinton: Referred to as “The Black Country King,” McClinton wrote soulful country songs in the 1970s.
Kane Brown: A contemporary artist breaking barriers by blending traditional country with pop and R&B influences.
Mickey Guyton: Known for her Grammy-nominated song “Black Like Me,” highlighting racial inequality in country music.
Petrella Ann Bonner: Dubbed “The First Lady of Country Soul,” she combines country with soul and gospel elements.
Shaboozy: A contemporary Black artist incorporating modern storytelling and unique country influences.
Tanner: A rising talent whose contributions demonstrate the evolving inclusivity of the genre.

The Label “Race Music” and the Erasure of Black Contributions

In the early 20th century, music by Black artists was often segregated into the label “race music,” regardless of genre. This classification allowed white artists to adopt and commercialize Black musical styles without crediting their originators. For example, the Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers borrowed heavily from African American musicians while sidelining their contributions.

The systemic erasure extended to other genres like blues, jazz, and rock and roll. Black musicians who shaped these genres were often overshadowed by white performers who gained fame and fortune using their innovations. This pattern of appropriation is starkly evident in country music, where foundational Black contributions have been obscured in favor of a predominantly white narrative.

Artists such as Pink, Justin Timberlake, Michael Bolton, the Beastie Boys, and Third Base have benefited from cultural appropriation in genres like R&B and hip-hop. Their success highlights the double standards that exist within the music industry, where Black-originated styles are often commercialized by white artists while excluding their Black creators.

Hispanic Contributions to Country Music

While the African influence is undeniable, it is also essential to recognize the contributions of Hispanic culture. Styles like Tejano and conjunto introduced instruments such as the accordion and rhythms like polka to country music. This blending of cultures birthed subgenres like Western swing, a vibrant and multicultural style that thrived in the Southwest.

Hispanic contributions, like those of Black musicians, are often underrepresented in mainstream narratives. Yet their impact is deeply embedded in the genre’s DNA, from instrumentation to storytelling traditions. Artists like Freddy Fender and the Mavericks exemplify how Hispanic influences have enriched country music’s soundscape.

The Subgenres of Country Music

Country music has evolved into a diverse array of subgenres, each reflecting unique cultural influences, I am sure you can find Cowboy Carter here…but remember, Beyonce said it is a Beyonce Album, creating her own genre–brilliant:

Traditional Country: Known for its acoustic instrumentation and rural storytelling, traditional country relies on instruments like the banjo, which originated in Africa and was introduced to America by enslaved Africans. Their musical styles influenced Appalachian music, a foundation of this subgenre.
Honky Tonk: Emerging in lively bars and dance halls, honky tonk features steel guitars and emotional themes of heartbreak and resilience. Honky tonk’s use of the piano is rooted in African American styles such as ragtime and boogie-woogie.
Bluegrass: Defined by fast tempos, intricate instrumentation, and vocal harmonies, bluegrass prominently features the banjo, an African instrument shaped by enslaved Africans.
Outlaw Country: A rebellious subgenre incorporating gritty storytelling and raw instrumentation, drawing heavily from African American blues traditions.
Country Blues: A fusion of country and blues, showcasing heartfelt lyrics and acoustic guitars. Artists like DeFord Bailey brought Black musical traditions to mainstream country.
Western Swing: Blending country and swing jazz, Western swing incorporates danceable rhythms and improvisation derived from African American jazz.
Americana: Reflecting America’s cultural tapestry, Americana integrates country, blues, and folk, deeply influenced by African American spirituals and gospel music.
Alt-Country: Blending country with rock and punk, this subgenre mirrors the historic blending of African American blues and gospel with traditional country.
Southern Rock/Country Rock: Combining electric guitars and soulful melodies, southern rock draws from African American gospel and blues traditions.
Gospel Country: Featuring spiritual themes and harmonies, gospel country owes much to African American gospel music and spirituals.
Rockabilly: Merging early rock ‘n’ roll with country, rockabilly borrows rhythmic energy from African American rhythm and blues.
Cowboy/Western Music: Evoking the American West, this subgenre reflects the legacy of Black cowboys who contributed work songs to the genre.
Neo-Traditional Country: Returning to country’s roots, neo-traditional incorporates storytelling influenced by African American folk traditions.
Country Pop: Merging pop melodies with country instrumentation, country pop integrates rhythmic patterns inspired by African American pop and R&B.
Country Soul (Countrypolitan): Blending country with soul and R&B, this polished style was popularized by artists like Charley Pride.
Hillbilly Boogie: With lively tempos and boogie rhythms, this subgenre reflects African American boogie-woogie styles.
Progressive Country: Experimental and boundary-pushing, progressive country incorporates jazz and blues rooted in African American traditions.
Country Rap: A modern blend of country and hip-hop, country rap highlights African American music’s versatility.
Western Ballads: Slow-paced and poetic, these ballads draw on African American storytelling traditions.
Appalachian Folk: The foundation of country music, Appalachian folk incorporates African American spirituals and work songs.
Truck-Driving Country: Centered on life on the road, this subgenre features bluesy themes resonant with African American road songs.
Bakersfield Sound: A West Coast style with raw, electrified sound inspired by rhythm and blues.
Texas Country: Known for independence, Texas country integrates African American gospel and blues traditions.
Zydeco Country: Blending Louisiana Creole and country styles, zydeco country reflects African American and Afro-Caribbean influences
Contemporary Country: This modern iteration of country music blends traditional country elements with influences from pop, rock, and R&B, drawing from African American gospel and rhythm-based innovations. Its polished production and broad appeal owe much to cross-genre collaborations and the fusion of musical styles.
Bro-Country: Known for its themes of partying, pickup trucks, and youthful revelry, Bro-Country borrows heavily from African American hip-hop beats and rhythmic hooks, showing how urban influences permeate even the most rural-themed country music.
Hip-Honky: A unique blend of honky-tonk and hip-hop, Hip-Honky exemplifies the genre’s ability to adapt to contemporary sounds while honoring its roots. Pioneered by artists like Cowboy Troy, this subgenre highlights African American contributions to rhythm, storytelling, and musical innovation.
Country Jazz: A fusion of country melodies with jazz improvisation and swing, this subgenre traces its roots to African American jazz musicians who brought complex rhythms and harmonies into the country tradition.
Western Film Scores: Popularized through Hollywood’s depiction of the Wild West, this subgenre features orchestral arrangements inspired by the work songs and spirituals of African American cowboys who contributed significantly to frontier culture.
Cajun Country: Born in Louisiana, Cajun Country blends French influences with African rhythms, creating a subgenre that celebrates Creole culture. Instruments like the accordion and fiddle showcase this vibrant cultural mix.
Delta Country: Originating in the Mississippi Delta, this subgenre incorporates bluesy undertones and African American work song traditions, creating a soulful, emotive style that resonates deeply with listeners.
Native Country Fusion: A subgenre combining Native American musical traditions with African American rhythms and folk influences, Native Country Fusion is a testament to the shared cultural exchanges in American history.
Dark Country: Often featuring themes of hardship and loss, Dark Country reflects the blues-inspired storytelling traditions brought by African American musicians to early country music.
Global Country: Emerging as country music spreads internationally, Global Country incorporates African diasporic influences, blending traditional country instrumentation with Afrobeat rhythms and global themes.
Zydeco Country: A blend of Louisiana Creole and country styles, Zydeco Country reflects African American and Afro-Caribbean influences. It often features instruments like the accordion and washboard, creating a lively and rhythmic sound.

Cultural Appropriation in Music: A One-Way Street

Artists such as Pink, Justin Timberlake, Michael Bolton, the Beastie Boys, Third Base, and Vanilla Ice have long benefited from cultural appropriation in genres like R&B and hip-hop. Their success highlights the persistent double standards within the music industry, where Black-originated styles are often commercialized by white artists while Black creators struggle for the same recognition and opportunities.

This disparity becomes glaring when Black artists venture into genres traditionally dominated by white artists. For example, when Beyoncé released her country-inspired song “Daddy Lessons,” she was met with skepticism and resistance.

Critics questioned her authenticity, and even her wardrobe was targeted. When Beyoncé wore a fitted, mid-thigh dress during a performance, detractors labeled her a “whore,” yet country singers like Lainey Wilson, Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, and Kelsea Ballerini have donned similarly revealing outfits with headlines celebrating them as “Hee Haw Hotties.” In one infamous Yahoo article, they were praised for bringing glamour to country music. Why is Beyoncé vilified while white artists are praised for the same choices?

And when people claim these criticisms aren’t rooted in race, they often reference Darius Rucker as proof that the country music world is inclusive—pulling out the one Black artist they can name out their ass as a token example. It’s a tired defense that ignores the systemic barriers faced by other Black artists attempting to gain acceptance in the genre.

Take Miley Cyrus, for instance, who leaned heavily into hip-hop during her Bangerz era, only to later dismiss the genre as she transitioned back to a more mainstream pop image. Similarly, Post Malone built early success with hip-hop influences before pivoting to rock and pop, effectively reaping the rewards of his association with a genre rooted in Black culture while distancing himself from it.

These instances reveal an uncomfortable truth: while music is often called “universal,” the rules of acceptance and success seem anything but.

Dolly Parton’s Embrace of Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter

In 2024, Beyoncé further challenged these norms by releasing her country-inspired album Cowboy Carter, which featured a rendition of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene.” Dolly, a long-standing icon in country music, publicly praised Beyoncé’s interpretation, stating, “Wow, I just heard ‘Jolene.’ Beyoncé is giving that girl some trouble, and she deserves it! Love, Dolly.”

Beyoncé also received public support from other country stars, including Kacey Musgraves, who tweeted that Cowboy Carter was “a brilliant masterpiece that weaves storytelling and soul in a way only Beyoncé could.” Chris Stapleton, who collaborated with Beyoncé on a bonus track, called the album “a breath of fresh air for country music.”

Willie Nelson, a living legend in the genre, expressed his admiration, stating, “Beyoncé brought something real, something new, and that’s what country music is about.”

Despite this overwhelming support, there were still narrow-minded detractors who clung to outdated notions of who belongs in the genre. Even with praise from influential figures, Cowboy Carter was notably absent from the nominations at the 2024 Country Music Association (CMA) Awards. This omission reignited conversations about inclusivity and the barriers Black artists face within the genre’s institutions.

A Call for Reflection

Country music, like all American music, is a fusion of cultures. Its roots can be traced to enslaved Africans who brought the banjo to the Americas, Hispanic traditions that shaped its rhythms, and countless other influences that created its distinct sound. To deny these origins is to deny the very essence of the genre.

Music is one of humanity’s most universal languages, capable of breaking barriers and fostering unity. However, its true potential can only be realized when the industry acknowledges and honors the contributions of all its creators.

By crediting and uplifting the voices that laid the foundations for our favorite genres, we can create a space where innovation thrives, free from exploitation or erasure.

As we move forward, let’s challenge the biases and structures that perpetuate exclusion. Instead of gatekeeping genres, we should celebrate the beauty of shared expression. After all, the power of music lies not just in the melody but in the story it tells—and those stories deserve to be heard, celebrated, and preserved.

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