Leon Bridges, known for his smooth, soulful sound, has ventured into country music with his latest album, Leon. During the promotion of his Gold-Diggers Sound album in 2021, Bridges expressed his ambition to be among the few Black artists in the country genre, stating, “All I need is time.” However, since then, Black country music has gained mainstream recognition, with Bridges still yet to leave his mark.
One notable figure in this shift is Shaboozey, whose hit single “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” has been a dominant force in the charts. Currently at No. 1 on the US singles chart for 12 consecutive weeks and topping Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart for the past four months, Shaboozey is celebrated as the only Black artist to lead the country chart in its 80-year history. Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road” faced exclusion from the charts for reasons steeped in racial bias, while Beyoncé also made history earlier this year.
To those unfamiliar, Bridges’s exploration of country music on Leon may seem like a late entry into a growing trend. However, this perception would be misguided. With roots in Atlanta and a upbringing in Fort Worth, Bridges is deeply connected to the musical fabric of Texas, blending elements of country with his signature soul and R&B influences. Over the years, he has collaborated with country icons such as Kacey Musgraves and Miranda Lambert, as well as the band Khruangbin on the enchanting track “Texas Sun,” earning his place in the evolving landscape of country music.
Related Topics
Legends of American Country Music Set to Dazzle Worcester
