Utah Representative Burgess Owens sparked controversy by claiming Beyoncé's Grammy win for Best Country Album was attributable to DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives rather than merit.

Owens, the sole Black congressman from Utah, made these remarks during an interview with journalist Nicholas Ballasy. Despite admitting he neither listens to country music nor has specific knowledge of the competing albums, Owens suggested Beyoncé's win was undeserved, stating it was "the closest thing to DEI we're going to see right now."

The congressman claimed the win disrespects those who have built their reputation in country music, comparing the situation to transgender women competing in women's sports. When asked for clarification on how the Grammy win exemplified DEI practices, Owens' team did not provide a response.

Beyoncé's album "Cowboy Carter" features collaborations with established country artists including Dolly Parton, Linda Martell, and Willie Nelson, along with emerging country performers Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy, Reyna Roberts, Shaboozey, and Willie Jones.

During her acceptance speech, Beyoncé addressed genre boundaries, stating, "I think sometimes genre is a codeword to keep us in our place as artists. I just want to encourage people to do what they're passionate about and to stay persistent."

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