Beyoncé's recent Grammy wins, including Best Country Album for Cowboy Carter, have sparked controversy, with some critics questioning the legitimacy of her awards. However, several celebrities have come to her defense, including Whoopi Goldberg.
On the February 4th episode of The View, Goldberg responded to a segment from Fox News' The Ingraham Angle, where author Raymond Arroyo argued that Beyoncé's 35 Grammys were disproportionate to her talent. Arroyo claimed that the voting system allowed for non-industry members to vote in all categories, resulting in “ridiculous outcomes.”
Goldberg countered Arroyo's claims, stating that Grammy voters must be members of the music industry. She also emphasized the Grammys' efforts to become more inclusive by expanding their categories and voting base. “She earned it,” Goldberg declared, dismissing Arroyo's criticisms.
The other co-hosts on The View also defended Beyoncé. Sara Haines pointed out the diverse origins of country music, arguing that it's “very ignorant” to suggest that Beyoncé shouldn't be recognized in the genre. Alyssa Farah Griffin highlighted Beyoncé's long-standing success and numerous awards, emphasizing that her recent wins were not a fluke.
Sunny Hostin added that country music has strong roots in Black culture and American music, making Beyoncé's country album a fitting addition to her repertoire. “Guess who else loved Cowboy Carter?” Griffin added, “Dolly Parton!”
Goldberg concluded the defense by emphasizing the unifying power of music. “Music doesn't have the issues you have,” she said. “Music about the people… Please don't try to make music about ‘us and them.’ It's all us.”