Stronger Together
Women Supporting Women in Country Music.
Stronger Together: Women Supporting Women in Country Music
Country music has long been known for its storytelling, deep roots and connection to everyday life. However, for many years, women in the genre have faced obstacles, from radio play disparity to industry gatekeeping. Despite these challenges, female country artists have found strength in unity, supporting each other through collaborations, mentorship and advocacy. Recently, Beyoncé’s entry into country music has ignited conversations about inclusivity, representation and the power of women standing together.
Beyoncé’s Country Influence: Breaking Barriers
Beyoncé’s venture into country music has been met with both praise and resistance. When she first introduced country elements in her 2016 album Lemonade—particularly with the song “Daddy Lessons”, which she later performed alongside The Chicks at the CMA Awards—many traditional country music fans questioned her place in the genre. Fast forward to 2024, and Beyoncé has doubled down on her country roots with a full album inspired by the genre.
Her presence in country music has sparked intense debates, but it has also brought unprecedented attention to Black country artists who have long been overlooked. Artists like Mickey Guyton, Brittney Spencer and Rissi Palmer have received increased visibility, with many celebrating Beyoncé’s role in amplifying their voices. Rather than being a divisive moment, her entry into country music is proving to be a unifying force, bringing women from different backgrounds together in support of one another.
Women Lifting Each Other in Country Music
Beyoncé’s move into country music has not been a solo journey—she has received support from some of the genre’s most respected women. Mickey Guyton publicly welcomed her into country music, tweeting, “You are loved, and you belong here.” Maren Morris and Kelsea Ballerini have also expressed excitement, reinforcing that the genre is at its best when it embraces all voices.
Additionally, Beyoncé’s influence has spotlighted other Black female country artists, making space for more diverse voices in the industry. Rather than viewing her as an outsider, many women in country music recognize her presence as an opportunity to evolve and grow the genre.
Beyond Beyoncé’s impact, there has been a growing movement of female country artists who are actively supporting and uplifting one another. Here are some key examples.
1. The Highwomen: A Country Supergroup Rooted in Sisterhood
In 2019, Brandi Carlile, Maren Morris, Amanda Shires and Natalie Hemby formed The Highwomen, a collective dedicated to increasing visibility for women in country music. Their debut album featured songs that championed female empowerment, storytelling and inclusivity, proving that when women join forces, they can break down industry barriers.
2. Mickey Guyton: Paving the Way for Diversity
Mickey Guyton has been one of the most vocal advocates for diversity in country music. Her song “Black Like Me” shined a light on racial injustice while proving that country music is for everyone. When she became the first Black female artist to perform at the ACM Awards and later host the event, fellow women in country—including Maren Morris, Kelsea Ballerini and Carrie Underwood—celebrated her accomplishments, demonstrating the camaraderie within the industry.
3. Miranda Lambert and Lainey Wilson: Mentorship Matters
Miranda Lambert, known for her fierce independence, has often been a champion for younger female artists. She has taken artists like Lainey Wilson under her wing, providing guidance and amplifying their music. Lainey, now a rising star, often credits Lambert for showing her how to navigate the industry while staying true to herself.
4. The Song Suffragettes: A Platform for Emerging Female Artists
In Nashville, the Song Suffragettes collective has provided a crucial platform for female singer-songwriters since 2014. The weekly showcase has helped launch the careers of many female artists, proving that when women support each other, they all rise together.
Women in country music—whether seasoned legends or newcomers—are proving that collaboration, mentorship and inclusivity are key to breaking down barriers. Beyoncé’s presence in the genre has only accelerated this movement, forcing a conversation about diversity while inspiring more women to lift each other up. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s clear that country music is strongest when women stand together.