LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 05: Beyoncé accepts Best Dance/Electronic Music Album for “Renaissance” onstage during the 65th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 05, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

In Lily Allen’s recent commentary on Beyoncé’s latest album, “Country Carter,” featured on her BBC podcast, “Miss Me?” she delves into various aspects of the superstar’s foray into country music.

Allen starts by discussing Beyoncé’s rendition of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” which she interprets as a portrayal of Beyoncé’s enduring love for her husband, Jay-Z. Reflecting on Azealia Banks’ remarks about Jay-Z’s desirability, Allen humorously dismisses any romantic allure, attributing her interest more to his influence and power. She clarifies that her admiration isn’t purely physical, out of respect for her husband, David Harbour.

Regarding Beyoncé’s choice to cover such an iconic song, Allen finds it peculiar, considering it’s one of the genre’s greatest hits. She questions the strategy of tackling a new genre by immediately embracing its most renowned songs. Nevertheless, she acknowledges Beyoncé’s autonomy in her artistic decisions.

Discussing the promotional campaign for “Cowboy Carter,” Allen perceives Beyoncé’s move into country music as calculated. She points out the album cover’s imagery of Beyoncé in a cowboy hat atop a horse, alongside Jay-Z’s remarks at the 2024 Grammys criticizing the Recording Academy for overlooking Beyoncé. Allen interprets these actions as a deliberate challenge to institutions that have historically failed to recognize Beyoncé’s significance.

Allen notes Beyoncé’s successful penetration of the country music market, achieving the top spot on country radio. While she admits uncertainty about Beyoncé’s motivations, she respects her autonomy and concludes that everyone has their own path to success.