Beyoncé received the award for her eighth album, Cowboy Carter, which highlights the deep connection between country music and Black culture. Although she had been nominated four times in the running for this prestigious award, this was her first win.
When her name was announced on stage, Beyoncé first dedicated the award to her daughter, Blue Ivy, and her husband, Jay-Z.
In her acceptance speech, Beyoncé said, "I feel so good and happy with this award. Even though it took many years."
She also honored Linda Martell—a pioneering Black woman in country music and the first Black woman to perform on the Grand Ole Opry stage—by acknowledging her contributions. Martell is featured on several tracks from Cowboy Carter.
Beyoncé continued by saying, "I trust that we will continue to strive for a better future and open doors for others. God bless you all, thank you."
With this win, Beyoncé became the first Black female artist to claim the Album of the Year award since 1999, when Lauryn Hill’s The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill won the award.
At 43 years old, Beyoncé's achievement—after 25 years in the industry—also makes her the artist with the most Grammy Awards, having now won a total of 35.
