In a moment that has set the country music world abuzz, Martina McBride, the ever-feisty country icon, concluded her latest show with a playful yet pointed jab at none other than Beyoncé and her recent foray into the country music scene.

During her performance, Martina McBride delivered what some have called a “peer-review” of Beyoncé’s recent “country album,” questioning the pop superstar’s sudden pivot into a genre so deeply rooted in tradition and authenticity. At over 50 years old, Martina remains a formidable presence in the world of country music. Her opinions carry significant weight among fans and industry insiders alike.

To Martina and many traditional country aficionados, the idea of Beyoncé effortlessly ascending to country music stardom seems incongruous, to say the least. “What kind of person has a single song that does okay and then suddenly they’re at the top of the charts?” Martina reportedly quipped during her show.

“How is it that she gets to skip the hard parts, like playing in seedy nightclubs and pretending to be interested in producers just to get someone to listen? It’s not fair.” Martina’s remarks didn’t shy away from addressing privilege and opportunity in the music industry. She questioned whether Beyoncé truly understood the struggle of grassroots artists who have hustled through the ranks, suggesting that Beyoncé’s success may be more a product of privilege than pure talent and hard work.

The underlying sentiment seemed clear: if others had to endure the grind, why should Beyoncé be exempt? Martina’s words struck a chord with many who see the music industry as a landscape where merit should reign supreme, and success should be earned through perseverance and dedication.

This candid commentary from Martina highlights a broader conversation within the music industry about authenticity, cultural appropriation, and the pathways to success. For many country music purists, the genre is more than just a musical style-it’s a way of life, characterized by its own unique challenges and triumphs. Beyoncé’s entry into this world, seemingly without paying her dues, challenges this notion and raises questions about what it means to be “country.”

Martina McBride’s advice to Beyoncé—”take off your hat and bury it”—isn’t just about a piece of clothing. It’s a metaphorical call for respect and authenticity in a genre that values its roots and traditions. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how Beyoncé’s country experiment will be received in the long run and whether it will lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the genre’s rich heritage.