In a recent incident that caught everyone’s attention, a country radio station in Oklahoma found itself in hot water after it decided not to play Beyoncé’s latest country song, “Texas Hold ‘Em.” The controversy started when a listener requested the track on 100.1 KYKC in Ada, Oklahoma. The song is part of Beyoncé’s upcoming album, Act II of her “Renaissance” project, which was released on February 11, 2024, alongside another single called “16 Carriages.”
The listener, known as @jussatto, took to the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) on February 12, 2024, to share the email response they received from KYKC. The station’s message was clear: “We do not play Beyoncé on KYKC as we are a country music station.” This decision sparked outrage among listeners and led to accusations of racism and discrimination against the globally renowned artist.
Expressing their disappointment with the station’s refusal to play Beyoncé’s music, @jussatto condemned KYKC’s stance as “blatant racism and discrimination.” The listener called for accountability, stating, “@1001KYKC This is absolutely ridiculous and racist. You guys should be ashamed. I grew up listening to your station.”
The outcry against KYKC’s decision quickly spread across social media platforms, with users showing solidarity with Beyoncé and condemning any form of discrimination. As the controversy gained momentum, the radio station faced intense public scrutiny, which ultimately led to a change of heart.
Under mounting pressure and criticism, 100.1 KYKC made the unprecedented decision to reverse its stance. The station announced that it would, in fact, play Beyoncé’s new country song, “Texas Hold ‘Em,” on its airwaves. This change came in response to the demand for inclusivity and recognition of diverse voices within the country music genre.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by artists of color in traditionally white-dominated spaces, such as country music. Beyoncé’s venture into the genre with “Texas Hold ‘Em” highlights the changing landscape of country music and the need for greater representation and inclusivity.
Ultimately, the controversy surrounding KYKC’s initial refusal to play Beyoncé’s song emphasizes the power of public opinion and the importance of holding institutions accountable for their actions. As the music industry continues to grapple with issues of diversity and inclusion, incidents like these serve as crucial moments for reflection and progress. Through open dialogue and advocacy, we can work towards a more equitable and inclusive musical landscape where artists of all backgrounds are celebrated and embraced.