Beyonce has largely earned praise aplenty for her foray into Country music with her blazing new album ‘Cowboy Carter.’

However, some corners of the Country circuit have been vocal in their critique of the superstar’s creative exploration.

And while much of their discourse has centered on her status as a beacon of R&B, it’s only served to spark deeper debate about the true reason for the issues – a reason many speculate centers on her race and her intentional spotlight on the genre’s true origins.

One of the notable names in Queen Bey’s corner is the legendary Smokey Robinson.

Find out what the Motown icon had to say when quizzed on the matter below…

Speaking with Marissa Mitchell on Fox 5 DC, Robinson said of the drama:

“[Beyone is] one of the most talented people to come along in a long time. She should be free to sing whatever she wants to sing.

For her to come out with a Country album, I applaud her. Give me a reason why she shouldn’t sing Country. Because she’s Black? For them to criticize her, it’s ridiculous.

For those criticizing her, they should SHUT UP!”

Well said!

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