Beyoncé's eighth album, Cowboy Carter, strays beyond country into Beatles, Beach Boys, and blues influences, showcasing her ability to bend musical styles to her will.
Key Points
Beyoncé integrates country, hip-hop, and eclectic influences in her music
Album features spoken word interludes by Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton
Includes a cover of Dolly Parton's Jolene with new lyrics and arrangement
Pros
Showcases Beyoncé's versatility in blending musical styles
Features fantastic songs with strong melodies and vocal delivery
Includes eclectic mix of influences from country to hip-hop
Cons
Album's sheer length may be overwhelming for some listeners
Lacks cohesiveness due to wide range of musical genres
Some tracks may feel disconnected from the overall concept