John Schneider, known for Dukes of Hazzard, voiced strong disapproval of Beyoncé’s entry into country music. In an interview with One American News Network, Schneider likened Beyoncé’s venture to “a dog peeing on a tree” to mark territory.
Country’s Changing Landscape: Schneider’s Perspective
Schneider, 63, expressed frustration over Beyoncé’s fans advocating for her new country song, “Texas Hold ‘Em,” to be played on an Oklahoma radio station. In a conversation with OANN host Alison Steinberg, Schneider criticized left-leaning entertainers for encroaching on every domain.
Schneider’s Analogy and Call for Genre Boundaries
Comparing Beyoncé’s move to a dog marking territory, Schneider stated, “They’ve got to make their mark, just like a dog in a dog walk park. Every dog has to mark every tree, right? So that’s what’s going on here.” He urged artists like Beyoncé to stick to their genres. Despite his opinions, Beyoncé’s new album, rumored to include country tracks, is set for release on March 29, 2024.
Fan Backlash: Accusations of Racism
Fans criticized Schneider’s remarks, labeling him ‘racist and hateful.’ Responding on social media, one fan highlighted the historical black influence on country music. Another noted the long tradition of crossovers in music. Fans accused Schneider of inappropriate gatekeeping, especially given Beyoncé’s Texan roots.
While Schneider’s critique reflects concerns in the country music community about pop influences, it also stirred controversy for its perceived racial undertones. The ongoing debate underscores the evolving dynamics of music genres.