Cowboy Carter: A Lesson in Bravery & Perseverance
It's the Sunday following the launch of Beyoncé's "Cowboy Carter," and I am happy to announce that the album holds a special place in my heart. It is so great to see that after 27 years in the game, Beyonce is still finding ways to deliver music that is touching, relevant, and iconic. Even if you are not a fan of Beyonce’s, and especially if you are not a hater, her work ethic should serve as an inspiration to you, and I think Cowboy Carter just about dots all the I’s in inspiration.
There is something to be said about the perseverance, bravery and a deviation from the easily trodden path with Beyonce. Her decision to enter a space that for many many years has not been so welcoming to people who look like her isn't just about making an album; it’s about making a statement. She's proving that artistic expression shouldn't be confined by genre or race. It's a powerful message that resonates not just with aspiring musicians, but with anyone who has ever dared to dream outside the lines. "Cowboy Carter", serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment to artistic exploration, and is a masterclass in perseverance and the courage to break free from expectations.
It’s too hard, they won’t buy it, they won’t play it, you’ll look stupid etc.We’ve all heard phrases like these from others and from ourselves when attempting to explore new paths, and they can be so disheartening. Sometimes, we dream of doing something different from what we currently do but have no idea of how to make those dreams come true. What exactly is it that gets the people who succeed in achieving these ‘new path dreams’ from point A to point Z and how do I inject it into my veins?
There's a certain bravery in venturing outside one's comfort zone. This bravery isn't about the absence of fear, but rather the willingness to act in spite of it. For example, the music industry, like many others, thrives on established formulas. Country music, with its rich history and dedicated fanbase, can be a particularly insular genre. Yet, Beyoncé isn't afraid to challenge the status quo. This act of artistic defiance resonates with anyone who has ever dared to dream beyond the preordained path. It reminds us that true growth lies not in following the well-worn trail, but in forging our own.
Of course, venturing off the beaten path isn't without its risks. For example, there will be those who question the authenticity of Beyoncé's country roots. But her doggedness in the face of potential criticism is a powerful message. Perseverance is the foundation of any successful journey off the beaten path. It's the unwavering commitment that sees us through the inevitable challenges and setbacks that arise when we deviate from the norm. Imagine a budding entrepreneur with a revolutionary idea. The path to success will likely be filled with skepticism, funding hurdles, and moments of self-doubt. Yet, it's their perseverance that will keep them pushing forward, turning their vision into reality. It underscores the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision, regardless of external approval.
The rewards of venturing beyond the familiar are immense, but it’s not for everyone, and I’m not advocating that we all rush to creating new paths for ourselves if we don’t want to. This message is really for those of us already on the journey of and/or thinking of forging new paths. It’s an encouragement to keep being brave and persevering as even the biggest stars in the world are having to do this as well. This particular journey helps us discover new talents, hidden strengths, and we develop a deeper sense of self-reliance and resourcefulness. But most importantly, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities that may have remained unexplored had we stayed on the easy path.
The road less traveled is rarely easy. There will be doubters, like those who scoff at the idea of Beyoncé singing about dusty roads and small-town dreams. But here's the thing: true growth doesn't happen in comfort zones. It happens with a leap of faith, with the unwavering belief in your own vision. So, the next time you find yourself at a crossroads, remember that the greatest opportunities for growth often lie beyond the familiar. Take a deep breath, tap into your perseverance, and embrace the bravery to explore the uncharted territories that await. You might just surprise yourself with what you discover.
