Everyone drop what you’re doing and watch Black Is King

Do you hear a buzzing? That’s the sound of the Beyhive going absolutely cray over the release of Queen Bey’s latest visual album “Black Is King” on Disney+. The visual companion to her 2019 album, “The Lion King: The Gift” was described as a “celebratory memoir for the world on the black experience.” Oh boy, what a celebration it was.

When it comes to visual albums no one is on the same level as Beyoncé. Just like its predecessor “Lemonade,” released in 2017 – “Black Is King” breaks new ground on what music and art can be. A stunning cinematic spectacular for both the eyes and the ears, Beyoncé delivers impactful number after impactful number, seamlessly blended together in the most stunning avant-garde way you could ever imagine.

Even though Beyoncé is the star of the show, don’t forget “Black Is King” is inspired by the live action film “The Lion King” which starred Queen Bey as Nala. From beginning to end we are taken on the journey of a young king’s quest to find himself (Simba, does that sound familiar?). As we’re taken on this quest, we experience breathtaking visuals, dance and fashion many of which are inspired by African culture. From the Grand Canyon to Johannesburg to Beyoncé’s own backyard, each new set piece and costume change contributes to the overall story in such a unique way.

Of course, the overall message of “Black Is King” is a celebration of Black excellence and during fraught times such as these with the Black Lives Matter movement so prominent in society, it’s now more important than ever to remind the world of the power and glory of Black people not only in Canada and America, but especially in Africa, a culture that is often misrepresented in American media.

Sure, the celebrity cameos from Jay-Z to Lupita Nyong’o to Kelly Rowland are what most people will probably be talking about, but it’s actually the symbolism hidden throughout “Black Is King” that makes the film so powerful. I won’t give away any spoilers on that front, because watching it yourself is way more impactful than reading about it.

With that being said, keep in mind that “Black Is King” isn’t just a celebration of Black culture and Black history, but also Black future. And for Beyoncé that future is represented through her kids. To say Blue Ivy doesn’t steal the spotlight whenever she appears would be a bold-faced lie. This is a story about Black excellence and the empire Beyoncé has built with her family is the epitome of excellence.

All this to say that whether you are a part of the Beyhive or “Single Ladies” is the only Beyoncé song you’ve ever heard, take a moment to watch “Black Is King.” Not only will you learn a thing or two about Black culture, you will also get to experience art in its finest form.

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