Beyoncé Announces New Visual Album Black Is King , Shares Trailer: Watch
Beyoncé has announced a new visual album called Black Is King. The project is written, directed, and executive produced by Beyoncé. It’s set to premiere on Disney+ on July 31. (Pitchfork earns a commission from purchases made through affiliate links on our site.) Watch the teaser trailer below.
Beyoncé previously worked with Disney on the “live-action” CGI remake of The Lion King, for which she recorded new music and curated the companion album The Lion King: The Gift. According to a press release, Black Is King “reimagines the lessons of The Lion King for today’s young kings and queens in search of their own crowns.” The film is based on the music of The Gift, features some of the album’s collaborators, and promises other special guest appearances. It’s referred to as “a celebratory memoir for the world on the Black experience.” It continues:
The voyages of Black families, throughout time, are honored in a tale about a young king’s transcendent journey through betrayal, love and self-identity. His ancestors help guide him toward his destiny, and with his father’s teachings and guidance from his 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. “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.
Last year, Beyoncé released Beyoncé Presents: Making the Gift—a documentary detailing the recording process of the LP. She recently teamed up with Disney on ABC’s The Disney Family Singalong, during which she sang part of “When You Wish Upon a Star” as a tribute to healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Beyoncé recently released her latest single “BLACK PARADE,” which arrived on Juneteenth (June 19)— a day commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.
Read “5 Takeaways From Beyoncé’s HOMECOMING Documentary” over on the Pitch.
Originally Appeared on Pitchfork
