Brian “Killah B” Bates, a well-respected music producer, has carved out his niche in the industry, but it was producing a single for Beyoncé’s new album “Cowboy Cater” that allowed him to break new ground with his first country song. Furthermore, he assures fans that this is just the beginning.

The producer, who has received three Grammy nominations, is known for working with high-profile artists like Ariana Grande, Usher, Chris Brown, and Summer Walker. Yet, it was his collaboration on the track “Texas Hold ‘Em” for Beyoncé that marked his entry into country music — a track that subsequently achieved multiple records.

“I feel fantastic. It’s like I could conquer anything,” Bates expressed in an interview with YSL News. “That’s the kind of motivation that young Black creatives, and all young artists, need. Making my mark in history is a great honor, and I intend to uphold that responsibility.”

This year, Beyoncé made history herself by being the first Black woman to reach the top of Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart when “Texas Hold ‘Em” debuted at No. 1. In doing so, Bates also became the first Black producer, alongside Raphael Saadiq, to achieve this milestone on the country chart.

Originally from Chicago, Bates shares that he endured a difficult childhood with his parents battling addiction. He credits his grandparents for raising him and his brother, shielding them from the challenges around them.

“My grandfather was a jazz musician in Chicago,” Bates recounts. “He had to prioritize family over his music career, but he recognized my musical talent and chose to nurture it.”

<p”He enrolled me in piano lessons, and I became classically trained early on. Eventually, I also taught myself to play the drums and performed at church.”

“My father loved to play country music, classic rock, and 70s R&B all day,” he recalls. “In addition to the music they played, I explored genres on my own, studying artists like Luke Bryan and the Dixie Chicks. My passion for different musical styles grew.”

Bates later moved to Atlanta and then Los Angeles to pursue his aspirations in music, marking his territory in the industry. When it came to working on “Texas Hold ‘Em” with Beyoncé, he reveals that a connection through a friend led him to her team, who quickly recognized the potential in his record.

“She was immediately impressed and requested the files,” Bates shares. After Beyoncé added her unique touch, he was astounded by the result.

Although “Texas Hold ‘Em” was Bates’ first country production, he was fully prepared for it.

“I’ve studied countless country songs, so when the time came to work on this track, it felt like a part of me,” he explains. “Even though I had not produced a country song before, my deep understanding of music allows me to capture its essence and authenticity, using the right instruments and styles. This is a natural talent that I’ve been blessed with.”

Bates strongly asserts that Black artists belong in country music.

“Black creators were integral to the development of the instruments that shaped country music, as well as the genre’s style,” Bates states. “Our presence in country music is not just valid; we are foundational to it, and that narrative has been overlooked at times.”

In his own words, “This is part of our cultural heritage.”

Earlier this year, during a Super Bowl commercial, Beyoncé surprised everyone by announcing her country album, unveiling her first two singles — “16 Carriages” and “Texas Hold ‘Em.”

Within just a week, “Texas Hold ‘Em” had climbed to No. 54 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart. On the streaming platforms, her tracks quickly dominated country music charts on services like Apple Music and Spotify.

“When ‘Texas Hold ‘Em’ was released, it felt like my whole world transformed,” Bates recalls. “The marketing strategy was revolutionary.”

Beyoncé followed with the full release of her country album “Cowboy Carter” on March 29, maintaining her successful streak and setting new records.

Bates expresses his pride in being part of this milestone. Fans can expect even more musical works from him across various genres in the future.

“I have several country projects in the pipeline,” he reveals. “I’m planning to explore more in Nashville, but I’m also diving into dance, pop, and rock. Get ready for surprises in genres you might not expect me in. I’m here to make my mark.”