Country star Kelsea Ballerini doesn’t quite understand why anyone would complain about artists like Beyoncé and Post Malone being nominated in country categories. Speaking on SiriusXM’s Fierce: Women in Music, the 31-year-old singer, who is a Grammy nominee this year in the best country duo/group performance category, addressed this question during a recent interview. Host Lori Majewski asked Ballerini for her thoughts on the nominations of artists from diverse genres competing alongside traditional country performers.
Ballerini expressed her belief that the nominations in the country categories reflect the evolution of country music itself. “That category, to me, represents what country music has been this year,” she said, adding that it should celebrate the groundbreaking successes within the genre. She further noted, “What has happened in country music and been successful this year…I don’t really understand the other opinions other than like, it’s amazing to have huge, respected artists and other genres come in and celebrate ours.” With her heartfelt words, Ballerini conveyed her enthusiasm for the inclusion of genre-crossing artists, such as Beyoncé, in country music.
The singer also pointed out the double standard that exists within the music industry. She questioned why it is acceptable for country artists to explore pop music while artists in other genres face scrutiny for venturing into country. “You don’t have to be a country artist to make a country record,” she emphasized. “Those don’t have to exist in the same plane.” This perspective underscores her advocacy for genre-crossing artists and the blending of musical influences.
In addition to discussing her views on genre-crossing, Ballerini shared her excitement about the upcoming Grammys. She revealed that she plans to bring her boyfriend, Chase Stokes, a star from Outer Banks, as her date. Ballerini is nominated for “Cowboys Cry Too,” her duet with folk-pop artist Noah Kahan. “It just so happens that we’re all friends,” she shared, explaining how their close-knit group plans to celebrate together at the awards.
Ballerini has ambitious plans for the night, stating, “Noah and I are gonna take some photos, and then we’re gonna go in and just drink some wine and watch performances, and it’s gonna be the best date night ever.” She conveyed her excitement about this special occasion, balancing her personal life with her professional achievements, turning the evening into a memorable celebration of friendship and music.
Notably, Ballerini praised her collaboration with Kahan, highlighting how each partnership has taught her valuable lessons. “I can’t say enough,” she remarked. “Truly, every collaboration has taught me something very different; some have been more positive experiences than others, as they do. But Noah, he’s just such a good human and he’s such a damn good songwriter.” With deep admiration, she reflected on her experiences, enriching her artistry with each collaboration.
Reflecting on her career as a five-time Grammy nominee, Ballerini candidly discussed her journey with awards. “I don’t win things,” she said. “I don’t, and I’m cool with it.” She admitted that in the past, comments about her identity as a country artist and experiences with losing awards brought her to tears. However, she explained how her relationship with these challenges has evolved. “People identify country music in different ways. To me, it’s are you writing your truth of your story? That to me is country music.”
According to Ballerini, whether a song features a banjo or a beat drop does not ultimately define its country label. She emphasized that the opportunity to perform on prestigious shows is an award in itself. “Once I rewired my brain to think like that, I’m so ecstatic to show up and perform most of the time, some of the time,” she concluded, demonstrating her resilience and passion for her craft.
Ballerini’s advocacy for genre-crossing artists like Beyoncé highlights an important shift in the music landscape, affirming the belief that creative expression should know no boundaries. As audiences continue to appreciate diverse influences, her perspective represents a hopeful vision for the future of country music, where collaboration and authenticity reign supreme.