Celebrating Black Women in Country Music This Women’s History Month

March is Women’s History Month, and what better time to honor the collective strength and influence of women who have pushed boundaries and made rich contributions to the music industry?

When we think about artistic innovation, Beyoncé stands out as a woman who continues to inspire future generations in the fight for equality. In 2025, she made history as the first Black woman to win a Grammy for Best Country Album. Her willingness to break creative barriers and shine a light on a genre deeply influenced by Black women forced people to recognize that we’ve always had a place in country music—and that Black artists can thrive beyond the genres society tries to confine them to.

Beyoncé continues to highlight the challenges Black women face in the country music industry, where they’ve had to work twice as hard for recognition. As we reflect on the importance of representation, let’s take a moment to celebrate 5 trailblazing Black women in country music—both past and present—who deserve our attention.

Linda Martell

Linda Martell is a trailblazer in country music, becoming the first Black female artist to find commercial success in the genre. In 1969, her song “Color Him Father” reached #22 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. She also made history as the first Black woman to perform at the Grand Ole Opry. Despite her success, Martell faced an intense amount of racism, from slurs at shows to being shut out by the industry, which led her to step away from country music in 1974. Today, her legacy is finally getting the recognition it deserves, with Beyoncé including her on Cowboy Carter, introducing a new generation to Martell’s impact. A documentary, Bad Case of the Country Blues: The Linda Martell Story, directed by her granddaughter Marquia Thompson, will soon be released to shed light on her contributions and struggles, ensuring her story continues to inspire.

Ruby Falls

Ruby Falls was another trailblazing Black woman in country music, breaking barriers in a genre where few looked like her. Born Bertha Bearden Dorsey in 1946, she got her start singing with local bands before moving to Nashville in the 1970s to pursue country music. Between 1975 and 1979, she charted nine singles, including “You’ve Got to Mend This Heartache“, which reached #40 in 1977. Despite her talent, she also faced challenges in a predominantly white industry, making her success even more significant. She sadly passed away in 1986 at just 40 years old, however her contributions to country music remain an important part of history.

Rissi Palmer

Rissi Palmer made history in 2007 when her debut single, “Country Girl,” became the first song by a Black woman to chart in country music in over 20 years. From Pennsylvania, Palmer blends traditional country with her soulful voice and personal storytelling, offering a fresh sound to country. Her style combines country with elements of R&B and pop, helping stretch what country music can really represent. Palmer actively advocates for diversity in the genre through her Color Me Country Radio show on Apple Music Country, where she highlights the many contributions of Black artists.

Brittney Spencer

Brittney Spencer, a Baltimore native, has made a name for herself in country music with her blend of life, truth, and imagination in her songs. Known for her free-spirited style, Spencer has earned praise from Rolling Stone and for her standout Tiny Desk performance. With her powerful voice and distinctive sound, she’s making a significant impact in country music. Spencer has shared the stage with icons like Willie Nelson, Reba, and Maren Morris, and was featured in Amazon’s For Love & Country documentary. Recently named one of People Magazine’s “ones to watch,” she continues to leave her mark.

Tiera Kennedy

Tiera Kennedy, an emerging country music artist from Alabama, has been making waves since 2020 with her blend of traditional country and contemporary sounds. Known for her powerful vocals and relatable songwriting, Kennedy gained attention with her debut single “Found It In You” and her EP Tiera. Kennedy has already performed at major country music events like the CMA Fest and has been recognized as a rising star in the industry. With her growing fanbase and standout talent, Tiera Kennedy is quickly becoming a name to watch in country music.