Ladies and gentlemen there is still hope for 2020. A new visual album written, directed and executive produced by Beyoncé is premiering soon.
In a surprise announcement, Disney Plus revealed a new visual entitled “Black Is King.” The short film will celebrate Black resilience and culture, and premiere globally on Disney+ on July 31, according to a press release. The album is based on the music of The Lion King: The Gift, which Queen Bey curated for the Lion King animated remake released last July, in which she voiced the character of Nala.
While we all eagerly wait, a one-minute teaser trailer for “Black Is King” dropped Saturday night on beyonce.com.
“The visual album from Beyoncé reimagines the lessons of The Lion King for today’s young kings and queens in search of their own crowns,” reads the statement from Disney and from Beyoncé’s company, Parkwood Entertainment.
The statement further details that the album honors the voyages of Black families throughout time, and tells the story of a young king’s journey through betrayal, love and self-identity. Guided by his ancestors, father and childhood love, he earns the virtues needed to reclaim his “home and throne.”
“These timeless lessons are revealed and reflected through Black voices of today, now sitting in their own power,” according to the announcement. “‘Black Is King’ is an affirmation of a grand purpose, with lush visuals that celebrate Black resilience and culture. The film highlights the beauty of tradition and Black excellence.”
On Juneteenth, Beyoncé surprise-dropped “Black Parade,” co-written with her husband Jay-Z, focused on Black empowerment and centered on the nationwide Black Lives Matter protests following the killing of Minneapolis man George Floyd by police. She announced on her website that proceeds from the song will benefit Black-owned small businesses in need through her BeyGOOD initiative.
“Black excellence is a form of protest,” the post said. “Black joy is your right.”
Watch the “Black Is King” teaser trailer below:
