Beyoncé Releases Trailer for Her New ‘Black Is King’ Visual Album

Whether it’s on the screen or on stage at award shows and concerts, Beyoncé’s known for her ability to bring music to life or her life to music. She has done just that again in partnering with Disney Plus to release her new visual album titled “Black is King.”

While the entirety of the album will be available on July 31st, she recently graced fans with an official trailer on her website.  Following up on her role as Nala in the 2019 remake of “The Lion King” in which she produced the soundtrack titled “The Lion King: The Gift” that was released almost exactly a year ago last summer, “Black is King” is produced, written, and directed by the former Destiny’s Child songstress.   

As her career has witnessed longevity and evolution, Beyoncé has found more of a voice over the years in regards to political and human rights issues.  In the wake of multiple Black Lives Matters protests fighting against police brutality and systemic racism, Beyoncé has used her platform in an attempt to create change.  For example, in her commencement speech to the class of 2020 last month, she stated, “… Make your own stage… your blackness is beautiful.” 

She has also been open about teaching their kids the concept of black beauty.  On Instagram, she wrote, “I just watched the trailer with my family and I’m excited. ‘Black Is King’ is a labor of love.  It is my passion project…”

Within the film that seems to focus on black culture, multiple black men with velvet do-rags and traditional African hairstyles pose in solidarity by the beach.  It also includes powerful scenes of an African king on a throne surrounded by his family. 

There are also a plethora of clips showing vibrant colors, Beyonce in space, several African dancing scenes, and a basket going down the river that may even have a biblical connection. One of the highlights in the trailer was a close up of Beyonce holding what seemed to be her son, Sir, by a beach, which suggests there might be more appearances by the Carter kids, Blue, Rumi, and Sir, in the complete work. 

The release of this film also suggests that Beyonce continues to listen to the “Beyhive”—a term for her most devoted fans—and encourages their own pride.  “My only goal is that you watch it with your family and that it gives you pride,” she captioned the sneak peek on Instagram.  Based on the trailer, it looks like a collection of the 24-time Grammy-award winning artist’s work over the years, but amplified.   

Black Is King” will be available only through Disney Plus by subscription on July 31st. Monthly and annual plans are priced at $6.99 and $69.99, respectively.