around five minutes into beyoncé's sprawling masterpiece, renaissance, any doubts about its impact evaporated. the album's brilliance overshadowed every other artist or trendsetter in the music industry.
sorry, dua lipa; our deepest condolences, drake. we anticipated something good; we received something breathtakingly exceptional.
another significant revelation? renaissance is undeniably, vibrantly queer.
in the liner notes, beyoncé dedicated the album to her uncle johnny, her "fairy godmother" who passed away from aids-related complications. renaissance magnificently embodies the queer dance culture he likely introduced to her during his lifetime.
to honor this, i've fulfilled my journalistic duty by creating a definitive list of things—people, experiences, concepts, traditions—that are arguably less queer than renaissance.
if you disagree, you're likely correct, but have you ever considered embracing joy? we absolutely adore darcelle's, words simply cannot describe it.
darcelle's: a portland institution
darcelle's is a cornerstone of portland's vibrant culture, the wellspring from which nearly all local drag performers draw inspiration.
this might seem like an easy target. ben platt's rendition of billy joel? whatever that was? to borrow a lyric from renaissance: "move out the way, mr."
the "swish swish" lip sync
while on the topic of things that are less queer than renaissance, we must mention that time a certain individual lost a lip sync battle to katy perry's "swish swish." boo!
but more importantly, we bonded with the bartenders over shared experiences of overcoming difficult relationships and celebrated the barbie phenomenon as a catalyst for liberation. they even crafted a pink barbie vodka shot for us before we departed.
a glimpse of inclusivity: the marta experience
we joined the crowd at the marta station and observed a remarkable absence of straight, white men.
these young people showed up for justice, often wearing high heels. the gay times offers an excellent explanation of the situation. we can perceive a potential revival here, echoing the embodiment of haitian loa. she is, once again, the affluent goddess of the sea, lasirene, gracing the police car.
beyoncé, embodiment of cultural and societal forces
on the porch, surrounded by men, she could be the female manifestation of papa legba.
and although the final line is directed toward all women who earn less than men, it also serves as a call to accumulate economic capital in the ongoing struggle against white supremacy and oppression in america.
homework assignment: the renaissance and lemonade experience
your homework is to immerse yourself in the visual album lemonade and, of course, listen to renaissance.
also, a reminder that in south carolina, self-managing an abortion, including the use of abortion medication, is illegal. meanwhile, donations to abortion funds have significantly decreased nationwide at a time when women, especially in the south, are losing access to these crucial services at an alarming rate.
this post is public, so feel free to share it.
hot feminism: letters from south carolina.
embracing the renaissance era: a deeper dive
beyoncé's renaissance isn't just an album; it's an immersive experience. it's a journey through queer history, dance music's evolution, and a celebration of self-expression.
the album's dedication to uncle johnny provides a poignant context for its themes of resilience, joy, and the importance of chosen family. it's a powerful reminder of the impact of the lgbtq+ community and its contributions to culture.
exploring the album's musical landscape
the music on renaissance is a vibrant tapestry woven from various genres, including house, disco, and funk.
the beats are infectious, the melodies are captivating, and the overall vibe is undeniably danceable. it's an invitation to move, to feel, and to let go. the album's production is top-notch, showcasing beyoncé's commitment to excellence and her ability to create a sonic world that's both familiar and fresh.
the visual album: a visual masterpiece
while the music alone is a triumph, the visual album elevates the experience to another level.
the visuals are stunning, with each frame carefully crafted to enhance the album's themes and messages. it's a feast for the eyes, a showcase of beyoncé's artistry, and a testament to the power of visual storytelling. the imagery complements the music perfectly, creating a holistic artistic experience that's both inspiring and thought-provoking.
understanding the album's cultural significance
renaissance is more than just an album; it's a cultural statement.
it's a celebration of black queer culture, a tribute to the ballroom scene, and a call for inclusivity and acceptance. the album's impact goes beyond the music charts; it sparks conversations, challenges norms, and inspires positive change. it's a reminder of the importance of representation, visibility, and the power of art to transform society.
the legacy of renaissance
beyoncé's renaissance has left an indelible mark on the music industry and beyond.
it's an album that will be studied, analyzed, and celebrated for years to come. it's a testament to beyoncé's artistry, her vision, and her unwavering commitment to her craft. it's a reminder that art can be a powerful force for change and that music can bring people together, regardless of their background or identity.
the impact on the music industry
renaissance has influenced countless artists and reshaped the music landscape.
its genre-bending approach, its commitment to visual storytelling, and its celebration of queer culture have inspired a new generation of musicians. the album has also sparked conversations about representation, diversity, and the importance of amplifying marginalized voices in the industry.
the album's long-term influence
the impact of renaissance extends far beyond its initial release.
its themes of empowerment, self-love, and resilience continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. the album has inspired countless memes, artworks, and creative projects. it has also helped to normalize conversations about queer culture, challenging stereotypes and promoting greater understanding.
continuing the celebration
the celebration of renaissance is ongoing.
fans continue to discover new layers of meaning in the album, and its influence continues to be felt in various spheres. beyoncé's commitment to her art and her dedication to her community are a source of inspiration for millions. the legacy of renaissance is secure, and its impact will endure for many years to come.
further exploration
to fully appreciate the brilliance of renaissance, it's worth delving deeper into its various aspects.
here are some suggestions for further exploration:
- listen to the album repeatedly: each listen reveals new nuances and layers of meaning.
- watch the visual album: immerse yourself in the visual storytelling.
- research the album's influences: discover the sources of inspiration behind the music and visuals.
- read reviews and analysis: gain different perspectives on the album's significance.
- engage in conversations: discuss the album with friends, family, and fellow fans.
by embracing the renaissance era and engaging with its various elements, you can deepen your appreciation for this remarkable work of art and its lasting impact.