Beyoncé has garnered 12 nominations for the People’s Choice Country Awards for her project Cowboy Carter, making her the most-nominated artist at this year’s event. This achievement comes despite initial skepticism surrounding her foray into country music.
The 42-year-old singer received two nominations for Female Song of the Year with her singles “16 Carriages” and “Texas Hold ‘Em.” She also earned two nominations in the Cover Song category for her renditions of The Beatles’ “Blackbird” and Dolly Parton’s “Jolene.”
“Texas Hold ‘Em” is nominated for Song of the Year, while “BLACKBIIRD,” featuring rising country star Brittney Spencer, is up for Collaboration Song of the Year. Beyoncé’s duet with Miley Cyrus, “II Most Wanted,” is recognized in the Crossover Song of the Year category, and “16 Carriages” is nominated for Storyteller Song of the Year.
In addition to her song nominations, Beyoncé is also contending for People’s Artist and Social Country Star awards.
These nominations follow early criticism from some quarters regarding her transition into country music. Rapper Azealia Banks, for instance, expressed her disapproval on Twitter, stating, “Yes black girls can make country music… but you’re just really not hitting the button. Beyoncé please stop the madness.”
The People’s Choice Country Awards, hosted by Shania Twain, will air live from Nashville, Tennessee, on September 26.
