Beyoncé achieves her first U.K. No. 1 in 14 years with her country-infused track “Texas Hold ‘Em,” which catapults to the summit of the Official U.K. Singles Chart, published on Friday, Feb. 23. The song’s remarkable ascent follows its debut at No. 9 the previous week.
Beyoncé’s Chart Triumphs:
“Texas Hold ‘Em” marks Beyoncé’s sixth U.K. No. 1 single and her first since her collaboration with Lady Gaga on “Telephone” in March 2010.
Prior to that, Beyoncé secured chart-toppers with hits like “If I Were a Boy” (2008), “Beautiful Liar” with Shakira (2007), “Déjà vu” with Jay Z (2006), and “Crazy in Love” with Jay Z (2003).
Notably, as a member of Destiny’s Child, Beyoncé also scored chart-toppers with “Independent Women” (2000) and “Survivor” (2001).
Country Music’s U.K. Resurgence:
Beyoncé’s success with “Texas Hold ‘Em” reflects a broader resurgence of country music in the U.K., a market traditionally dominated by electronic, pop, rock, hip-hop, and indie music.
Following breakthroughs by artists like Luke Combs and Morgan Wallen in 2023, Beyoncé’s No. 1 further underscores the growing popularity of country music across the pond.
Notable Chart Movements:
Among other notable chart movements, Benson Boone’s “Beautiful Things” climbs to No. 2, achieving a new chart peak, while Teddy Swims’ “Lose Control” secures the third spot, also reaching a peak position.
Dua Lipa’s “Training Season” debuts impressively at No. 4, marking her 15th U.K. top 10 single.
Rising Stars and Collaborations:
Ariana Grande’s “Yes, and?” experiences a surge, climbing to No. 7 after the release of a remix featuring Mariah Carey, with a previous chart peak of No. 2.
Actor Joe Keery, known for his role in Stranger Things, makes his first appearance in the U.K. Top 40 with “End of Beginning,” which jumps from No. 100 to No. 11.
Calvin Harris and Rag’n’Bone Man Collaboration:
Additionally, Calvin Harris and Rag’n’Bone Man’s collaboration “Lovers In a Past Life” makes a notable debut at No. 19.
This marks Harris’ 43rd top 40 single and Rag’n’Bone Man’s sixth. The duo previously collaborated on “Giant” in 2019, which peaked at No. 2 on the charts.