Black women in country music have been overlooked by the industry and major award ceremonies for decades. You think I’m lying? Mickey Guyton made history in 2020 as the first Black female solo artist nominated in a country category at the Grammy Awards for her song “Black Like Me.” Meanwhile, Tracy Chapman made history in 2023 when her song “Fast Car” won Song of the Year at the Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, making her the first Black songwriter to win the category. Yet, in 2026, no Black women country singers were nominated for a CMA Award. The CMAs have been around since 1967, so the continued absence of Black women country artists from this year’s nominations raises questions about their recognition within the industry. What will it take for Black women in country music to receive the recognition they deserve?
When Beyoncé released her country album Cowboy Carter in 2024, she helped open more doors for Black women in country music. Her groundbreaking project earned her a historic win at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards, where she became the first Black woman to win Best Country Album. That moment was major, bringing even more attention to a genre that has long had Black women contributing to its sound and evolution. It’s time to give these artists their flowers and make sure they have a place in music history. So, here are a few Black women in country you should add to your playlist!
1. K. Michelle
K. Michelle, also known as Puddin, has been on a journey of transitioning from R&B to country music for years! Let K. Michelle tell it, she has always wanted to be a country singer, but her label encouraged her to pursue R&B first. Being put in a box caused her to break out this year and be her true self with the release of her debut country album Jesus & Whiskey.
Jesus & Whiskey subtly blends R&B and country as K. Michelle gets vulnerable about her internal battles and faith. On songs like “Jesus & Whiskey”, she explores her relationship with God and how she turns to whiskey as a vice. Not only that, but she has no issue detailing her fight with the devil on the track “Damn Good Friend.” If you haven’t already, please check out her country project. Her yodeling on “Yodel” will definitely show you that this woman is a bona fide country superstar.
2. The BoykinZ
If you’re a music competition show watcher, then you probably know these four gals from Season 20 of America’s Got Talent. After appearing on the show, their single “Fell in Love With a Cowboy” took off, garnering 2 million views on YouTube. And they’re not your typical quartet! These girls are full of energy and deliver immaculate vocals, with lively music videos that have a modern Gang of Roses aesthetic.
If you check out their songs, you’ll see that these talented sisters, Kylan, Anale, Nytere, and Alona, are all about being free, mingling with cowboys, and going to rodeos. And believe me, these girls can hoedown with the best of them!
3. Reyna Roberts
You may know Roberts from being featured on Beyoncé’s song “BLACKBIIRD.” Self-proclaimed outlaw princess, rebel, and bold personality, Roberts shows off her versatility in country music on her debut album, Bad Girl Bible Vol 1. She can deliver a country love ballad like “Death Of Me,” while tracks like “Lawless” and “To My Name” incorporate club beat elements and are all about getting into some mischief. Her music is definitely for the baddies! She’s also dipping her toes into pop music with a preview of her upcoming single, “Poster Girl.”
4. Elsie
This Mississippi-born singer-songwriter released her self-titled EP in 2017, giving listeners a glimpse into her personality through songs that show she’s proud to rep where she’s from, doesn’t want snakes in her circle, and loves the sound of heartbeats. But her newest single, “GHETTO COWBOY,” is a banger! It has a hip-hop sound, but it’s very much countrified. Fun fact: She was also a contestant on Season 21 of America’s Got Talent this year, where she made it to the quarterfinals!
5. Tanner Adell
You probably remember Adell from her smash hit “Buckle Bunny,” which went viral in 2023. I highly recommend listening to her 2025 project, Don’t Pet (sampler). Even though it’s only four songs, you get to immerse yourself in her cutesy cowgirl style. The first three tracks are perfect soundtracks for barhopping, while “Do Angels Drink Whiskey?” will get you deep in your tipsy feelings. She’s also another country girlie venturing into pop music with her latest single, “Aphrodite.” Not only that, but she was also featured on “BLACKBIIRD” alongside Roberts.
6. Issy Sanaa
This pop-country princess is brand-new to the scene. She recently released her first single, “I Called It,” in October. The song details a woman being cheated on by her man and calling him out on his mess. This debut is an ear-grabber, and we can’t wait to see what other projects and singles she will release in the future.
I hope you consider adding these country ladies to your playlist, N Crowd! There are so many other Black country singers on the rise, so let me know if you’d like a second list!
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