With many people opting to enjoy a Western aesthetic in 2024, from fringed jackets to cowboy hats to shimmering boots — and a plethora of artists offering up country-influenced music — it’s no surprise that all things equestrian have re-entered the spotlight as of late. Plus, there is the longtail, massive influence of the hit television series Yellowstone over the past half-decade in inspiring many to kick up their boots and trade the city for the country for a while.
Horses have long represented grace and strength, and have featured prominently in artists’ creative scopes, including on the covers of Beyoncé’s Renaissance and Cowboy Carter, as well as Missy Elliott’s Respect M.E., Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band’s Against the Wind, and Bruce Springsteen’s Western Stars. Of course, numerous country albums have featured horses, such as Shania Twain’s Queen of Me and Willie Nelson’s A Horse Called Music.
Given artists’ hectic and on-the-go touring schedules, often spending hours upon hours in buses, aboard planes and inside music venues, it’s no surprise that horses and the open spaces of the outdoors would be a timeless draw for musicians. Their four-legged equine friends make no demands for new music, endless social media content or various event appearances, representing a slower-paced companionship.
Beyond the expected cascade of country artists who have long professed their love for horses, we rounded up photos of several artists — including purveyors of pop, country, rap and more — to highlight stars’ passion for horses.
This collection features artists including Beyoncé, Bad Bunny, Andrea Bocelli and more.