Kelly Clarkson understands Beyoncé’s disappointment over being snubbed by the 2024 CMA Awards. Despite the success of Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” album, which topped the Billboard 200 and included hits like “Texas Hold ‘Em” and “Jolene,” it received no nominations at the 58th Annual CMA Awards.
Clarkson reflected on her own experience in the country music scene, recalling how she was told her music wouldn’t be played on country radio unless she completely abandoned her pop roots. “It’s hard. I did even try years ago,” Clarkson shared, referencing her singles “Don’t Rush” with Vince Gill and “Tie It Up.” She was advised to choose between genres, which she found limiting. “I’m not ever gonna just pick one,” she asserted.
Both Texans at heart, Clarkson and Beyoncé grew up with country music. Clarkson finds it frustrating that artists are expected to stick to one genre. “It just seemed like the door was closed unless I was all-in and had to leave every other genre behind,” she explained.
Despite the lack of recognition, Clarkson emphasizes that awards aren’t everything. “People are showing up to my concerts, they like hearing the country stuff from me, they like hearing the pop,” she noted, implying the true success lies in audience support rather than accolades.
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