Granderson: Rising country music sister-act The BoykinZ is about connecting, not dividing

As a lifelong music enthusiast who’s spent countless hours immersed in the rich tapestry of tunes from various genres and eras, I can wholeheartedly say that the BoykinZ are a breath of fresh air in the country music scene. Growing up with Broadway melodies echoing through my childhood home, I can’t help but draw parallels between their vibrant energy and the timeless allure of show tunes.

One of my favorite songs of all time is “If You’re Reading This” by country superstar Tim McGraw.

The lyrics are written in the form of a letter from a soldier, meant for his family should he fall in the line of duty. The inspiration came from a magazine article about the casualties of war back in 2007. Following the song’s debut, McGraw said: “This little 5-year-old blond girl came up and kind of tugged on my shirt and said, you know, ‘You just sang a song about my dad, didn’t you?’ I just hope no matter what side of the politics you fall on, there’s people going over there and sacrificing their lives for what they’re sent to do.”

Everywhere we look seems to highlight our disparities, and the ongoing election cycle has been particularly divisive in 2024. It’s been quite painful, but for unity and healing, it’s crucial to recall that we are not merely defined by our differences. Music, such as McGraw’s “Reading This,” is one beautiful aspect of life that can serve as a reminder of this truth.

Introduce the duo known as BoykinZ, two charming ladies hailing from Georgia who gained massive popularity on TikTok last year (2022). Their latest release, “Fell in Love With a Cowboy,” became available for streaming this past Friday.

Anale Boykins explained, ‘We simply remain true to ourselves,’ being part of the group that includes Alona, Kylan, and Nytere. ‘We have a wide range of musical abilities, yet country music is our deepest passion. It resonates with us the most.’

Born in a household where both parents are skilled artists, and with melodies from Broadway echoing daily, the BoykinZ are often compared to a female version of the Jackson 5 within Nashville circles. They’re adept at playing musical instruments, dancing, and staging skits. Their popularity on TikTok piqued Kelly Clarkson’s interest, leading to their appearance on her talk show, while Shania Twain extended an invitation for them to perform alongside her live on stage.

Additionally, Nathan Chapman, a co-producer of Taylor Swift’s initial four albums, including her 2006 debut “Taylor Swift” and the hit single “Tim McGraw,” took notice as well.

As a devoted movie buff might put it: “What sets Taylor apart is her exceptional talent for songwriting. For me, country music truly shines when it weaves compelling narratives, and Taylor excels at this. Her unique ability to convey her thoughts and feelings in a way that resonates with her audience is what keeps her at the pinnacle of her craft for so long.

Upon discovering the BoykinZ, I immediately felt compelled to collaborate with them. Their unique talent, combined with their infectious charm and knack for storytelling, made them stand out.

It’s no secret that country music hasn’t had a lot of Black stars. Beyoncé’s entry into the genre shined a light not only on her own relationship with country music, but also on the long journey of other Black country artists. That would include Linda Martell, the first Black woman to play the Grand Ole Opry, who said she left country in 1974 because she was sidelined in favor of white artists. Fifty years later, Martell is a Grammy nominee thanks to Beyoncé, and country airwaves are more welcoming, a fact highlighted by Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” the longest-running No. 1 this year.

And now the BoykinZ are hoping to play a role in the genre’s continual growth.

Kylan stated, “Our parents brought us up to be ambitious individuals who don’t set boundaries for ourselves. Instead of trying to fit into others’ expectations, we stay true to ourselves and our unique qualities, hoping that others will understand and appreciate us.

Upon laying my eyes on the band for the first time, they instantly reminded me of the legendary Pointer Sisters, known for their courage in venturing into country music as well. This boldness was one of the factors that attracted the attention of veteran producer and the group’s business manager, Craig King.

King, born and raised in Nashville with a childhood connection to country legend Waylon Jennings, made this point: “You can easily recognize them by their unique sound,” he said. He argued that the era of music executives deciding which sound fits where is long gone, even in the realm of country music. “Trying to tell young minds how to think is futile,” King asserted. He continued, “The internet’s influence is immense. Young listeners will seek out and listen to whatever they desire, disregarding the industry’s labels. The boundaries that once separated music genres are weakening, and the industry acknowledges this reality.

It’s quite evident. This year, Beyoncé and Shaboozey, as well as pop artist Post Malone, have ruled the country charts. Now, a man who played a significant role in introducing Taylor Swift to the music industry thinks that the genre is poised to embrace four new voices, following decades of similar talent being overlooked.

Chapman expressed that it seems unwise for Nashville not to take notice if the fans resonate with it,” he said. Chapman, who’s collaborated with Keith Urban, Dan + Shay, and produced Mickey Guyton’s impactful single “Black Like Me”, added this perspective.

In order to become a truly exceptional country musician, one must possess a deep emotional resonance, and this individual certainly does,” he noted. “It’s not about deciphering secret formulas or always getting things right. It’s all about being genuine and creating a strong bond with the audience. Their vocals are amazing, their dancing is top-notch, but what truly sets them apart is their storytelling ability. They have compelling tales to share, which will undoubtedly make listeners feel deeply connected.

Like falling in love with a cowboy … can’t be more country than that.

@LZGranderson

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2024-11-15 21:31