The 32-time Grammy winner Beyonce stars on the cover of Essence Magazine‘s March April 2024 edition lensed by fashion photographer Andre D. Wagner. In charge of styling was Shiona Turini, with set design from Bette Adams, and production by The Morrison Group. Beauty is work of hair stylists Neal Farinah + Nakia Rachon Collins, makeup artist Rokael, and manicurist Miho Okawara.
In a move that caught fans and the music industry by surprise, Beyoncé unveiled the next chapter of her ambitious Renaissance trilogy during the Super Bowl LVIII festivities on February 11. The iconic artist released two country singles, “16 Carriages” and “Texas Hold ‘Em,” signaling a bold new direction in her musical journey. The announcement, made via a captivating Instagram video, showcased Beyoncé’s venture into country music, accompanied by visuals and sounds that echo the essence of classic Americana.
The teaser video, set against the backdrop of Chuck Berry’s “Maybelline” and featuring a scene reminiscent of Wim Wenders’ 1984 film “Paris, Texas,” hints at the thematic and stylistic elements of the upcoming act. With “Texas Hold ‘Em” co-written by Canadian artist Lowell and contributions from an impressive lineup including Rhiannon Giddens, Raphael Saadiq, and Hit-Boy, and “16 Carriages” featuring talents like Dave Hamelin and Justus West, the singles promise a rich blend of country influences and Beyoncé’s unparalleled artistry.
The unexpected album news followed a Verizon commercial aired during the Super Bowl, where Beyoncé teased the release of new music, followed by her appearance at the 2024 Grammys sporting a white cowboy hat – further hinting at her country-inspired pivot. Renaissance, Beyoncé’s seventh solo studio album released in July 2022, marked the first act of the trilogy, setting the stage for subsequent releases. Despite not having traditional music videos, the album was promoted through a variety of innovative formats, including globally screened concert film, “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé,” which became the No. 1 movie in the U.S. during its debut weekend.
“Break My Soul” received nominations for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Dance/Electronic Recording at the 2023 Grammy Awards, with Beyoncé winning the latter. The success at the Grammys, where she took home four awards, raised her total career wins to 32, making her the artist with the most Grammy wins in the award show’s history.
Photography © Andre D. Wagner for Essence Magazine, read more at essence.com
