Did you watch the visual album Black Is King  by Beyoncé? If so, you may have been amazed, and maybe even overwhelmed, by the wide assortment of creative elements and cultural references used throughout the project. It is a collage of art, fashion, and music that celebrates the creativity and history of various cultures across the African Diaspora. Watching this film is akin to looking through a kaleidoscope. Once you peek inside you see many small pieces, however beautiful they are on their own, coming together to create this spectacular arrangement of dazzling colors and patterns.

In the music video for "Already" you can sample a variety of cultures from across the continent. You can see Beyoncé fashioned in cowhide with a hairstyle that resembles the headdress of the Egyption goddess Hathor. You'll find men dressed in modern suits jumping in a fashion similar to the traditional adumu dance of the Maasai warriors. A Himba woman appears to engage in a dance with the man painted with "haint blue," which could be a nod to the Gullah-Geechee people of the American South. At the 4:00 minute mark you'll find the singer twirling in a hoop sporting a headpiece dripping with gold earrings, ranging from simple hoops to bamboo door knockers—a style of jewelry popularized in 1980s hip hop fashion. From du rags to Nigerian gele head wraps to bantu knots, braids, locs, and fades; there are many cultural elements to be explored on the topic of hair alone. 

Much is to be gleaned from this visual album. Thankfully, the Library offers a variety of materials that you can use to expand your knowledge of the arts and cultures from across the African Diaspora. Below you will find a comprehensive list of recommendations inspired by the visual album Black Is King. Enjoy a selection of pictorial artistic works along with some thought-provoking literature. Dance to the rhythms of afrobeat music or bask in the opulence of other sensuously creative works such as the 1978 musical fantasy film The Wiz.

Art, Fashion, & Photography

Peruse these pictorial works that showcase a breadth of artistic talent across multiple disciplines.

Fiction & Poetry, & Literature

Get lost in poetry and stories that offer unique perspectives on the Black experience.

Afrofuturism

Explore a reimagining of the future using the arts, science, and technology through the lens of those who are a part of the African Diaspora.

Architecture

Explore the intersections of race, architecture, and culture.

Culture/ Civilization

Learn about some of the empires, civilizations and significant figures in African history that inspired both The Lion King and Black Is King. 

Critical Thinking & Analysis

Lots of people enjoyed Black Is King for its soulful and exciting music and beautiful cinematography. However, no artistic work should be without critique. Try reading these books to open up a discussion about the arts, visual culture and the African Diaspora.

Movies and Documentaries

 

Music