Beyoncé released her seventh solo album, “RENAISSANCE”, a love letter to the black queer community. Celebrating the themes of self-expression, liberation and unfiltered confidence, Beyonce immerses her audience in a masterclass of songwriting and performance throughout 16 exceptional tracks. 

The album opens with, “IM THAT GIRL” and what a track it is. In “I’M THAT GIRL,” Beyonce reminds her audience that she is still that girl in the industry. There may be new and upcoming artists right now but, but Beyoncé will always remain queen bee. With every new song and album Beyoncé releases I’ve always been enthralled by her outpouring of self-love and confidence, and this song is no exception. With its upbeat rhythm and excellent lyricism I got a feel for what was to come for the rest of the album – and I was ready. 

The following tracks, “CUFF IT” and “ENERGY” compliment each other as they seamlessly transition between one another. Both bring that energetic, Friday night, just got paid feeling that makes you feel like you could do anything. The lyrics and rythm embody the warm feeling of summer when listening to it, as well as the irresistible urge to dance right away. 

The infamous lead single “BREAK MY SOUL” is a pivotal monument in the album as it’s loaded with inspirational aphorisms: “If you don’t seek it, you won’t see it.”; “If you don’t think it, you won’t be it.”; “Trying to fake it, never makes it.” Featuring bounce hip-hop artist, Big Freedia, the song serves as a message for everyone living in a post-pandemic world. Beyoncé reminds us over and over that not matter what, “you won’t break my soul.” With its catchy beat and repetitive lyrics I had this song playing in the back of my mind for days, and I wasn’t mad about it. 

Following with “CHURCH GIRL,” Beyonce showcases some incredible vocal dexterity. By fusing R&B and gospel, Beyonces embraces her vulnerability by telling us her story: “I’m finally on the other side/I finally found the extra smiles/Swimming through the oceans of tears we cried.” Beyonce’s outpouring of self expression and confidence is something most artists are scared to show, but for her comes naturally. 

With “COZY” Beyoncé continues to remind us that we too can embrace the confidence she holds as she sings, “Comfortable in my skin/Cozy with who I am.” Beyoncé’s use of the phrase feels empowering and liberating. And when she samples the voice of a Black trans woman, Ts Madison, who says, “I’m dark brown, dark skin, light skin, beige, fluorescent beige,” Beyoncé claims the phrase for everyone. 

And on “PURE/HONEY,” Beyoncé immerses herself in ballroom culture, incorporating drag performance chants and a Kevin Aviance sample on the first half before transitioning to the disco-drenched second half, cementing the song as an instant dance-floor favorite. Beyoncé weaves gorgeous vocal melodies into her performance while exuding passion and energy. In her spell, she sings with inviting confidence, “I’ve got you stuck, stuck in my love / Stuck in my honey.”

This upbeat dance album is inspired by legendary LGBTQ musical artists and genres, but also incorporates elements of afrobeats, pop, bounce, and R&B to create an ambitious and fresh body of work. With each listen, I fall deeper and deeper in love with Beyoncé, and the way she makes us feel. With the power and confidence she exudes in each and every one of her songs I feel enlightened with every listen. And Beyoncé intended the album to inspire us to find joy, love, dance, and freedom in an increasingly uncertain world. The album is easily rated 5/5. The replay value is off the charts, and each listen will leave you feeling lighter, bolder, and more elated.

Caption: Beyoncé’s ‘RENAISSANCE’ proved itself to be an album of the ages with its iconic tracks and incredible performance. Listened by thousands across the world this album found a way to unite and enlighten its viewers, and it’s no surprise it was recognized as one of the best albums of the year. At the 2023 Grammys Beyoncés win for Best Dance/Electronic Album for ‘RENAISSANCE’ put her Grammy total at 32, the most of all time. After winning the award for Best Dance/Electronic Music Album, Beyoncé now holds the all-time record for most Grammy wins.