US radio station has revised its stance after facing backlash for refusing to play a listener’s Beyoncé request, citing its identity as a “country music station.”
KYKC-FM, based in Oklahoma, has now included Beyoncé’s latest track, “Texas Hold ‘Em,” on its playlist following accusations of racism and discrimination.
The controversy began when a fan’s request for Beyoncé’s music was declined by the station, prompting the listener to accuse KYKC-FM of discriminatory practices.
The incident gained widespread attention after the fan posted the station’s response on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), drawing millions of views and shares from fans worldwide, including the prominent fan account @BeyLegion.
Beyoncé’s “Texas Hold ‘Em,” one of two songs unveiled by the Texan singer during Super Bowl ads, features lyrics and music with clear country influences, including references to hoedowns and the inclusion of a banjo.
Despite Beyoncé’s extensive accolades in the music industry, including 32 Grammy awards and 88 nominations, the song initially faced resistance from KYKC-FM.
However, in a statement to CBS News, Roger Harris, a general manager for South Central Oklahoma Radio Enterprises, which oversees KYKC, acknowledged the oversight and addressed the station’s change in policy.
Harris expressed regret over the station’s initial response, citing a lack of awareness regarding Beyoncé’s venture into country music and the station’s limited access to new music from major labels.
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Following an influx of requests and inquiries about the song, KYKC-FM staff located “Texas Hold ‘Em” and recognized its country music elements.
“We have nothing against Beyoncé… and we wish her the best in her foray into country music,” Mr Harris told CBS News.
“We actually wish that artists WOULDN’T get boxed in to certain genres or formats,” he said.
“If it’s good music, it’s good music.”
The station’s response on social media indicated a shift in policy, with KYKC-FM announcing the inclusion of “Texas Hold ‘Em” in its playlist after receiving numerous calls for the song.
