Beyoncé becomes first African American woman to top country charts with “Texas Hold ‘Em”

     Beyoncé has made history as the first African American woman to lead Billboard’s Hot Country Songs Chart, with her single “Texas Hold ‘Em” securing the top position, and “16 Carriages” landing in the ninth spot. These tracks, heralding from her forthcoming album “Act ll”. Notably, Beyoncé becomes the inaugural female artist to reach the pinnacle of both Billboard’s Country and R&B/Hip-Hop charts since their inception in 1958, as per Billboard.

     “Texas Hold ‘Em” achieved 19.2 million official streams and garnered an all-format airplay audience of 4.8 million, alongside 39,000 sales in the U.S. by February 15, data fromshows. Meanwhile, “16 Carriages” brought in 10.3 million streams, a radio audience of 90,000, and 14,000 sales.

     Beyoncé’s journey with Billboard began in 1997 with Destiny’s Child, achieving four No. 1s on the Hot 100 and two on the Billboard 200 starting from 1999. As a solo artist, she has earned eight No. 1s on the Hot 100 and seven on the Billboard 200 since 2003.

     Country music icon Dolly Parton expressed her enthusiasm for Beyoncé’s new direction on social media, congratulating her on the country number one and eagerly anticipating the full album. “I’m a big fan of Beyoncé and very excited that she’s done a country album,” Parton stated.

     Beyoncé’s two new country songs are part of her long-anticipated album, which is set to be released March 29.