Everyone knows Beyoncé, or Queen B, whether it’s from her days in her group Destiny’s Child, or her hit song “Single Ladies.” On Feb. 8, 2024, Beyoncé dropped two singles that no one expected. Both singles “TEXAS HOLD ‘EM” and “16 CARRIAGES” have a very strong country influence on them, especially when compared to her most recent album “RENAISSANCE,” and her single that came out at the end of 2023 “MY HOUSE.” Both of these songs were announced the day of the Super Bowl and will be a part of her upcoming album “RENAISSANCE II,” set to be released on March 24, 2024.
TEXAS HOLD ‘EM (3:55)
At the beginning of the song, the immediate sound of banjo sets the tone for the whole song. After a while, she starts singing and her voice sounds heavier compared to the breathiness in “RENAISSANCE.” Throughout the single, the banjo is playing in the background along with a steady drum line.
The music has a very upbeat energetic vibe, and it feels like something that would be heard in a road trip montage. Overall, this song was a big change compared to the more recent albums and singles that have been previously released from Beyoncé. The excitement and energy levels that hear still match those of other hits just with a more country influence to them.
16 CARRIAGES (3:53)
This song starts with a very somber energy, complimented by a simple guitar melody. When the chorus of the song hits, the energy level rises, and a somber melody is sung from Beyoncé. In the background, the guitar stays consistent and the change in tone comes from the vocals.
When taking a closer look at the lyrics, it almost seems as if she is singing about her struggle in the early years of her career, when she was still trying to make her big break. Along with an idea about what her earlier years of fame were like and the struggle to stay afloat financially.
Both of these singles are a lead-up to “RENAISSANCE II” and they hold very different feelings compared to the original album. A lot of Beyoncé’s fans (The Beehive) were not expecting such a large change in her music style, but many of them are thrilled to see what is in store.
