A US radio station recently faced criticism and accusations of racism and discrimination after it refused to play a listener’s request for a Beyoncé song, citing that it was a “country music station”. The incident gained widespread attention after the fan posted the station’s response on social media, which quickly went viral. In response to the backlash, the station’s manager later acknowledged Beyoncé’s status as an “icon” and added her song “Texas Hold ‘Em” to the station’s country music playlist.
The controversy began when the listener accused KYKC-FM, a radio station based in Oklahoma, of racism and discrimination for refusing to play Beyoncé’s music. The listener’s request and the station’s response were shared by popular Beyoncé fan account @BeyLegion, further amplifying the issue. The incident highlights the ongoing debate surrounding race and music genres, as well as the power of social media in shaping public opinion.
In a statement to CBS News, Roger Harris, a general manager for South Central Oklahoma Radio Enterprises, which oversees KYKC, explained that the station was unaware that Beyoncé had released country music songs. He stated that the initial response to the fan’s request was a “standard reply” as the station does not typically play Beyoncé’s music. However, after receiving numerous emails, calls, and requests for the song, the station reconsidered its stance and decided to include “Texas Hold ‘Em” in its country music playlist.
Mr. Harris emphasized that KYKC is a small station that does not receive the same level of promotional support from major record labels as larger stations do. This may have contributed to their initial lack of knowledge about Beyoncé’s country music endeavors. He also expressed support for artists exploring various genres and formats, stating that good music should not be confined to specific categories.
The incident prompted a remarkable shift for the radio station, as it broke its four-year social media silence to address the overwhelming demand for the song. Receiving millions of plays on Spotify and hundreds of thousands of views on YouTube within a few days of its release, “Texas Hold ‘Em” has gained significant popularity.
This controversy raises important questions about the influence of race and genre on music consumption and radio programming. It also highlights the impact of social media in amplifying public sentiment and holding institutions accountable for their actions. While KYKC initially faced criticism for its decision, the station’s willingness to adapt and embrace Beyoncé’s music demonstrates the power of public pressure and the potential for positive change.
Moving forward, it is crucial for radio stations and other media outlets to carefully consider the impact of their decisions and avoid potential biases based on artists’ race or genre. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the music industry, celebrating artists’ creativity and encouraging exploration across different genres.
