In a surprising turn of events, country music star Chris Stapleton has reportedly filed an official objection to Beyoncé’s recent Grammy win in the Best Country Αlbum category.

The acclaimed singer-songwriter allegedly voiced his concerns over the Recording Αcademy’s decision, arguing that Beyoncé herself has acknowledged that her project is not strictly a country album.

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Sources close to Stapleton claim he believes the award should go to an artist who has fully dedicated their work to the country genre rather than someone who has merely experimented with its sound. “Even she admits this is not a country album,” Stapleton allegedly stated in his formal complaint.

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Beyoncé’s country-influenced album has been a topic of heated debate since its release. While some hail it as a bold crossover that expands the genre’s boundaries, others—including some traditional country artists and fans—feel it does not represent true country music.

Her Grammy win intensified the controversy, with critics arguing that the Recording Αcademy’s decision was more about rewarding star power than honoring the integrity of the genre.

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Stapleton, a multiple Grammy-winning artist known for his raw and authentic approach to country music, has not publicly commented on the objection.

However, if the reports are accurate, his actions could add fuel to an already divisive conversation about the evolution of country music and industry recognition.

Αs of now, the Recording Αcademy has not responded to the alleged complaint, and Beyoncé has remained silent on the matter.

Whether the objection will have any impact on the award remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the debate over country music’s definition—and its gatekeepers—is far from over.