New Haven Register (New Haven, CT)
Westport’s Nile Rodgers featured on Beyoncé’s new album, ‘Cowboy Carter’
Frequent collaborator and Westport resident Nile Rodgers is featured on Beyoncé’s new album, “Cowboy Carter,” which was released March 29.
Rodgers is listed among icons like Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, Stevie Wonder, Miley Cyrus, Post Malone and Jon Batiste as contributors on the new country-focused album, according to a news release.
The album largely embraces Beyoncé’s roots in Texas, and is evident on tracks like “TEXAS HOLD ’EM” and “DESERT EAGLE.”
The character of “Cowboy Carter” is inspired by “the original Black cowboys of the American West,” according to a news release.
“Cowboy Carter” is notable for featuring covers of Parton’s “Jolene,” which includes re-arranged lyrics, and The Beatles’ “Blackbird.”
“I think people are going to be surprised because I don’t think this music is what everyone expects,” Beyoncé said in the news release. “But it’s the best music I’ve ever made.”
“I’m already wearing my cowgirl hat, boots and House of Deréon jeans,” Rodgers said in a Facebook post about the album. “I’m ready for this era.”
Rodgers worked with Beyoncé on her previous album, “Renaissance.” His work on the album, specifically on the song “Cuff It,” earned him two Grammy wins in 2023 — “Best R&B Song” and “Best Dance/Electronic Album.”
According to MusicBrainz, which serves as a database for music writing and recording credits, “CUFF IT” was recorded in part at Rodger’s Le Crib studio in Westport.
His studio is based in his house in Westport, which he stills owns, according to town property records. Rodgers listed the house briefly in
2022 before it was taken off the market, according to Realtor.