Why Beyoncé's Black is King is so controversial - BBC Africa

Beyoncé's hotly anticipated visual album "Black Is King", inspired by "The Lion King," has recently been released on Disney+.
Fans have been waiting with great anticipation ever since the film was first announced.
BBC Africa spoke to a professor of film, a film director and a student about their take on the film.
Produced by Jameisha Prescod and Saidata Sesay.
Edited and presented by Jameisha Prescod.
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[@hade1hade]

I find it so interesting that we Africans expect others to tell our story. One artist such as Beyonce cannot represent the whole of Africa in an entire album/song. So this notion of “she didn’t represent east africans” or “she didnt tell the other stories of Africa” is just ridiculous. Its not her responsibility. She is an artist and is only going to reflect in her music what she connects with. It is our responsibility to tell our own stories through our artistry.

[@mahawakamara8006]

hade1hade sad that your an African and you don’t know understand they way she portraying Africa. Africa is a continent with 54 countries you can’t group the whole continent together as one because we are not we have 54 countries in Africa in those countries we have different culture different tribes different languages different for food and we dress different Africans don’t have a problem with her making a movie in Africa but you have to be more specific on what countries you are talking about if you want to make a movie about Africa make a movie where your ancestors are from and what tribe but you can’t group Africa into one because it not so I hope this give you a little understanding in why Africans are upset even though white people portray Africa poor they have a specific place they are talking about just like the African food channels they go to a specific place in Africa like Kenya and they go to a village and learn what they do she doesn’t need to make a movie about Africa if she doesn’t know anything about it when do you really black Americans artist care for Africa they just go and have fun and than they gone so Africans feel like she cultural apporating African culture and no black Americans and Africans are different we don’t don’t do the same things or eat the same food or we just differ t in general.

[@douglasmatias3934]

@Mahawa Kamara it's not a documentary. It's art. The symbols are in the mivie and it is up to each one to try to identify them and study them

[@mahawakamara8006]

BadB*tch OnDeck we are not petty and jealous of Beyoncé we just don’t appreciate how she portraying Africa like it a country when it not if you read my message to this girl you would understand why we are upset we shouldn’t be grateful for something we didn’t ask for. Some black Americans always feel the need to tell Africans what we are and how we should feel when they don’t know about Africa or been there before. Some black American they have so much mouth and disrespect for Africans but they don’t have the same mouth to fix there own commuties In America stop worrying about Africans and what we are and worry about fixing your own commuties.

[@mahawakamara8006]

BadB*tch OnDeck ok so which part of Africa of art she taking about each countries have there own culture and tribe and art and different way of dressing so what kind of African art she talking about how are people supposed to indentify symbols if she not even focoused on a specific counties Mandingo people there are the most powerful tribes they are bunch of warrior my great grandpa and grandpa were both warriors we used animals as symbol like our symbols were lion. You see what I’m saying. Plus the movie is based on Africa and what they do.

[@douglasmatias3934]

@@mahawakamara8006 I think if you watch the movie again you will understand what am I saying. I'm not trying to say how you should feel about it, I just think you do not understood what Beyonce was saying in the movie

[@joannaansah4957]

The presenter has a very calm, soothing tone of voice. Excellent for presenting

[@CloudTribe]

Seriously let her narrate for national geographic

[@KenadiidAdam]

I fell asleep listening to her like mother talking to baby. We Men are loud so we don’t like this soft and calm, soothing spell crap

[@daftwod]

@@CloudTribe she belongs on national geographic alright

[@ifeyhome]

I feel like she's trying not to wake the neighbours. Great presenting tho

[@BlueYellowGreenVc]

@@daftwod Is this shade I detect, ma'am?

[@jackiearcher7738]

It's the darn Lion King, not a documentary on Africa, there's no way to cover the various culture of Africa in 1 or 2 hours, some people need to take a seat and calm down

[@kakaomogbai3398]

You right queen. How can she even talk about Africa where she haven't done anything for Africa.

[@elviseduyo2507]

Thanks so much for this little sensible remark. I wonder why some people are just deliberately blind!

[@BlackPanthro321]

Agreed

[@bobby12348]

🤣😂

[@bobby12348]

@@kakaomogbai3398 How do u know what she done.

[@denisavoinescu7961]

The title is “black is king” not “African is king”. She tried to picture black people in general, not only africans. if you want a full documentary on africa then ask to National Geographic, Bey just made a visual album.

[@vanessajean2043]

I concur!

[@okpaekhama9543]

Then she shouldn't have called it African culture

[@denisavoinescu7961]

Okpa Ekhama I’m too unbothered to argue, but I’ll say to you one thing, is thanks to beyonce and her supporto towards black people that I gained so much interest in learning about black culture and respect it a lot more. I’m not seeing another artist at least trying to show people around the world how rich black people are

[@user-eh9cy1mk3u]

The whole video of black is king was full of African context anyway

[@AngelasTravelAdventures]

@?? what? Africans aren't black? Then what are they? White? 😒

[@taylornoel8891]

How can beyonce portray an entire continent in one movie. Africa is so diverse (And freaking HUGE!!) that it’s almost impossible to represent every culture. Cut the chick a break and quit complaining.

[@evgeniam685]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/g4qbf5mwmNNkp7M

[@kieshaholt2600]

I feel the same way!

[@nanayaa.5325]

Yes, I agree Africa is Africa simple!!

[@lucillecasper2840]

But is Africa benefiting from this whole thing... 😒😒😒

[@sleepyyymoon]

@Chi Non The African creatives are benefitting, but to say 'Africa is benefiting'?? The whole continent?? That's a reachhhhh my friend. It's just entertainment at the end of the day, and thats okay

[@poonamkotecha5600]

When she says "We were beauty before they knew what beauty was" I felt it. I am from India and how we have all been brain-washed about our beauty, our culture, our language. This has inspired me to learn more about my culture. Her intent here is so clear. Our beauty is not lost, we just need to remember.

[@godsgirl7201]

❤

[@ofentsephoebe581]

Exactly

[@godsgirl7201]

Yes I definitely believe alot of Indian history comes from Africa you see it in the similar outfits jewelry traditions values etc❤

[@poonamkotecha5600]

@@godsgirl7201 With due respect for all religions and cultures, India has had a very strong cultural heritage that's lost on us due to colonisation and multiple other atrocities over the last 500 years. What I resonate to in this piece of work is the purging of our traumas and coming to our true self which I truly believe is beautiful in our own ways. If you see similarities in our cultures, that's beautiful to know. ❤️

[@Mentagasm]

I personally appreciate you saying that. Whether some of the people from India believe or not you all are part of the diaspora. Colonizers did a helleva hustle on us all. Peace ✌️ and love

[@muffettuffet8253]

it was only 1 hour. damn.. can't squeeze an entire continent in this

[@okpaekhama9543]

Muffet Tuffet then she shouldn't call it African

[@sunvirgo2020]

@@okpaekhama9543 Since she is African she called it African. I'm sure you never made that comment to the Chinese, Arab, Or East Indian, German, Englishman who made a similar comment that something was African.........???? Your colonizied mind fails you. The big picture we are 1 billion strong on this planet and we are not more advanced as a people's the infreere mind is a problem....

[@AngelasTravelAdventures]

@@okpaekhama9543 her album she can call it what she wants. Since you are so bothered, my goodness. You make a visual album and try to include the entire continent of Africa.

[@okpaekhama9543]

s stwo excuse me? When have you ever heard anyone say North American culture? Or how about Asian culture? Never because they're diverse. It's common sense. She shouldn't have called it Africa if it wasn't all Africa. She should have specified. Jeez. All these behive members coming at me for nothing. Beyonce is not a God and is not immune to criticism. Go on a break

[@okpaekhama9543]

s stwo and she is not African sorry to burst your bubble. I'm not colonized? Do you know me? Inferiority complex? Now you're just spitting grammar you heard another person say because as far as I'm concerned nothing that you mentioned has anything to do with what I said.

[@marissamarshall7808]

It’s literally the lion king lol....y’all do too much

[@aiaimonkey9085]

Instead of attacking Beyoncé, let's hold all of us (Africans in the Homeland and throughout the Diaspora) accountable for popularizing our mythologies, tribal histories, spiritualities and cultural elements. Black Is King was beautiful, but if you want East Africa more represented go out there and do it, North Africa? Go out there and do it. It's a Renaissance, the time is now. Beyoncé is one woman, Africa is 1B+ strong, if you have the means, I expect you to do the same.

[@hannahluv6208]

Thnks ...the blacklash on this movie is too much ....I guess it’s because it’s Beyoncé because one one said anything about wakanda or previous lion king ...let us just enjoy the movie and move on

[@DonovanRobinson420]

Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@blackcatladybug9878]

That's true. But I also think it's because most Africans feel that the way our culture is portrayed to the diaspora is fantasy like. Esp,though based on Lion King,the album was more fantasy than reality. Communication is key. In the continent,their are thousands of cultures and Beyonce couldn't have represented all of them. But also, I get it feels like it creates a false narrative that is is what Africa is like to the descendants in the diaspora. We can and should appreciate her art and portrayal while we still learn about different cultures. The divide between the continent and (esp) African-Americans is deeper than A visual album by a talented artist. That needs to be addressed..I think.

[@sleepyyymoon]

Africans are out there sharing their histories, you can find youtube videos, documentaries, films, books, etc. This argument is frustrating, because there are so many Africans who are out there documenting their cultures, this argument just sounds lowkey ignorant - because those Africans/content creators do not have Beyonce's platforms, and it sounds like people want to be spoonfed the information everytime a big western celebrity decides to dip into African cultures for a plot twist

[@aiaimonkey9085]

@@sleepyyymoon Beyoncé at the end of the day is a woman of African descent. This history is hers as much as the culture is. She's of prominent Yoruba ancestry.

[@phoenixmoon9116]

I truly believe that many have formed opinions without truly watching the movie. Most black people from the continent will never understand how generations of the black Diaspora are so disconnected from the continent. But at the same time, we have this emptiness in us, a hole. We live with a people that teach about ALL of their history of Europe. We go to school and learn about France, England, Poland, Scandinavia, blah, blah blah. Their movies have Folklore from all of Europe. They dont just cram one countries culture in our faces. They dont just talk about England for example. They show their "Glory" of ALL of Europe. We in the black Diaspora are left with knowing nothing about our peoples culture. Our Ancestors had folklore too! From all over Africa. I guess its a black Diaspora thing that you will NEVER understand. You just can NEVER know what it feels like to live around people that try to make you believe that you have no identity. The things they brainwashed us to believe about the whole of Africa. " The Dark Continent" She wanted to show us the beauty of our past. To hold our heads up because we come from a people that are rich in lore. Thats really important to us. Even if it may not mean anything to you.

[@ms.rstake_1211]

I'm from West Africa and found this amazing as well as needed. Plus I want to add that we also need to connect to you because bits of our history has been taken & parts of our culture corrupted and connecting with you all means piecing together the fragments. Most people who also believe this look to the Caribbean and even Afro-Latinx (especially Afro-Brazilians) and Afro-Arabs (especially those in North Africa) but looking at the Gullah-geechee culture, I believe all of you are the key.

[@MSMETALBABY]

As a black/African American, I 100% agree with this! You explained it perfectly. 💖

[@phoenixmoon9116]

@@ms.rstake_1211 Its such a beautiful thing to hear this from you. Sometimes it feels as though we are invisible to the brothers and sisters from the continent and its heart breaking to many of us to feel that you dislike us. I agree that each of us from the many parts of the African Diaspora have a story and it completes the story of us all. Once we gather all of our stories together, it tells the FULL story. 💝💝💝 We have all been through so much while being apart from one another. It time to come together.

[@bluefraser2920]

100% agree

[@urbnctrl]

AMEN! This is a reconnection to our ancestral roots. Black is King

[@jackwulfric8019]

I respectfully don't understand some of the critiques. The most extravagant scenes in the film were a dream sequence. The story is based on the Lion King and about a lost Prince who finds his identity. So ofc it's got the royalty theme and the film still explains what it means by royalty and "king" which isn't this idea of monarchy or material riches. It's sad to see some of the critiques being obtuse. The film isn't a documentary representing all Africa and shouldn't be treated as such

[@ms.rstake_1211]

Interesting take...

[@africariseup1890]

Antoine Bandele (author of 'The Kishi') summed it up well on another channel - divide and conquer and needless arguing over something that was well-intentioned, when we should be looking at the bigger picture, i.e more African-themed stories told on the big screen (like Children of Blood and Bone, Daughters of Nri, Kingdom of Souls, The Kishi etc).

[@denisavoinescu7961]

People forgot the title, is “black is king” (representing all the black people) Not “african is king”

[@sleepyyymoon]

@@denisavoinescu7961 So are there, or are there not any *real* African cultures used in this?

[@denisavoinescu7961]

karma moon I can not speak for that because I don’t feel acknowledged enough to make a point on how many African cultures are represented or not, I try to learn more every day, I’m not here to say how may real African cultures are used, but what I think Is that she did her best to try to show the richness of black people in general, maybe more that other artists did, and that is the greatest thing, at least trying and taking the courage to do something as difficult as representing as many cultures as you can in a very short music film

[@saranagudi5978]

Long stroy short, humanity is unappreciative.... damn!!

[@evgeniam685]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/g4qbf5mwmNNkp7M humanity is waking up.

[@BILL-uh3tr]

Basically yeah

[@chinosbreakroom3645]

Unappreciative.....lets pretend Beyonce was doing Africa a favour and not exploting cultures she knows nothing about

[@YoungMr.H.5304]

@@chinosbreakroom3645 when western media talks about Africa 99.9% of the times is war and poverty. Beyonce put on display the beauty of Africa and it's people. The artistry and artists are not what we are usually exposed to. Afro-beats are being played I clubs here and BurnaBoy is blowing up and I'm sure Shata Wale will too. It also give us African Americans a sense of pride. A pride that our history didn't begin on a slave ships. We do have a motherland. Even if it's just a small gesture, to some people, are small gestures not appreciated?

[@afikax8933]

Who must be appreciative exactly? If the diaspora don't feel like African culture is theirs and that they are being represented in BIK then surely Beyonce is culturally appropriating? I mean that's if you're saying we should be appreciative as Africans 👀. Are you seperating the diaspora from Africa?

[@TheeNinjette]

The Presenters voice is Absolutely Beautifully Soft! Like, sooooooo soothing

[@MovieJustin]

Well done! This was a thoroughly put together piece. The host has a fantastic voice and needs a show.

[@eleanorsvenson2958]

I feel like she’s whispering.

[@vuyelwancube9538]

Why was it her job to cover all of Africa. It's humongous. Let's do that ourselves. She highlighted what she wanted artistically.

[@lae6331]

yeah let a white person make a movie about life in the hood maybe y'all will understand

[@lae6331]

yeah let a white person make a movie about life in the hood maybe y'all will understand

[@vuyelwancube9538]

@@lae6331 Huh? There's no commentary just featuring African artists in the retelling of Lion King. And those artists are representing their African artistry. Not once was her opinion on what they stood for a part of the conversation. But hey not being American I assume most movies about 'life in the hood' have some white producers and directors at least and even more white people working behind the scenes.

[@amethystmoonchild6568]

lae I’m just gonna say this Beyoncé didn’t make a movie she added visuals to her her album and Africa has 54 countries on the one continent divisions within divisions there’s a lot of sauce a lot of culture to put into a single hour I would feel disrespected If she tried to put it all in just an hour we need a 13 part documentary for that. Yes she probably use some of the most popular cultures. Just like white people who make movies about life in the hood they only pick New York, Miami and California but the difference is actually have the information wrong.

[@lae6331]

@@amethystmoonchild6568 that's what we Africans mean... if someone watches that movie the first thing you'd think of is satanism.. we don't wanna be associated with that... if she's gonna make a movie about Africa shed rather come to Africa and learn first before just making a movie

[@AntoineBandele]

Divide and conquer. Let's not be divided on this, folks. Black Is King is a celebration of black... I've no idea how there is an issue here. The intent was positive. True, it's hard to represent the entire continent of Africa but Beyonce did her thing and did the very best she could. This is just a start (Black Panther + Black is King + etc etc). Let's stop with this faux conflict and push forward together.

[@peginstitution9029]

Thanks!!!!!

[@africariseup1890]

Exactly. Black Leopard Red Wolf, Kingdom of Souls, Children of Blood and Bone, Princess Sade and Amanirenas are all potential movies (and hopefully your 'The Kishi' will join them one day), yet people will probably still complain. It's counterproductive.

[@ms.rstake_1211]

@@africariseup1890 👍🏿

[@ms.rstake_1211]

Exactly. I'm subscribing to you. Love from Nigeria 🇳🇬

[@msontopoftheworld]

But isn't that one of the things one of the speakers touched on, that criticism shouldn't be frowned upon? Nothing wrong with having healthy dialogue about something that one person decided, represents black people.

[@greenhornet8262]

People will complain about anything no matter what. Someone’s going to be offended no matter how much research someone does or how good the intention

[@aliguibril234]

why is debate a bad thing? should we just watch movies once and never talk about them?

[@greenhornet8262]

Tamika Lee you only saw witchcraft because you wanted to see it. I’m sure you already made up in your mind that it was witch craft before you saw it. If you do your research and listen to what she and the directors meant to portray, you wouldn’t see anything wrong. Everybody always wants to called beyonce demonic just because someone else said it, never actually seeing her say it herself

[@greenhornet8262]

Tamika Lee also, I said nothing about poetry. But you think I did. That’s what I mean. You make up your own interpretation and see something that’s not there

[@kaoutermouslimhaliba7145]

@Tamika Lee you know before colonization people did not bilieve in God in many countries of Africa ,right? They had other biliefs. Your love of God is right. But probably it exists as a result of colonialism. Correct me if I am wrong. No offense intended.

[@okpaekhama9543]

Beyoncé ist Not immune to criticism calm down

[@f8staynicht]

Not gonna lie most foreigners think Africa is only South Africa and Western Africa. How diverse can a production be?

[@Tafarai_AM]

Very TRUE! That's what i usually tell

[@loveisanopendoor3532]

You know this is why most of Hollywood, producers and directors don't want to get involved with blackness. We drag, dimish and tarnish anything for not being perfect to OUR taste and liking as though that was Beyoncés intention. She was making a visual album. That's it. People will cry and Scream that it isn't representative but at the end of the day thay wasn't her job or goal. She was making a visual album for tge damn lion king and stretched out that narrative for all it was worth. Be grateful that we finally are getting represented as something that other than poor, disease and poverty striken and should start focusing on creating more story not dragging the one ONE that we have.

[@noexcuses5524]

Watch the movie ; it is racist towards white people lol... and there is no white in the movie All of them are blacks! If a hollywood film directed by caucausian no black people... black people will flip their minds off lol

[@evelynjavana1579]

@@noexcuses5524 the film is literally called Black is King. if you want to watch an all white cast movie, just search for one, it won't be hard to find

[@loveisanopendoor3532]

No Excuses so not having any white ppl in a movie is racist now...? That’s not really how it works mate lmao. besides there are 1000s of movies with not even a single black character and an all white cast so I don’t really get what your point is. You’re tying the whole “bUt iF tHE RoLeS wERe reVerSed” shit and that doesn’t really work when your the majority. The roles have been reversed sir, the whole of Hollywood movies are mainly whites. That’s literal common sense

[@noexcuses5524]

@@loveisanopendoor3532 hello common sense before u comment u should google That there is a law now in hoolywood that they must starring a black person Hello idiot! Before ucomment ... google it

[@kathym6504]

@@noexcuses5524 If you think that that's racism it shows that you never experienced racism and how uneducated you are on this topic... So please open a book before saying something ignorant

[@jakewilson4594]

Why the journalist sounds like she whispering lol

[@CloudTribe]

She would be excellent narrating some kind of national geographic type of film about animals.

[@reneem4598]

Yall not used to feminine sounding women huh?

[@jakewilson4594]

7Reload HAHAH i know right

[@dotunn]

People are funny, you want her to solve all of Africas problem with a music piece. They turned the whole thing political *eye roll* individuals can only do the best they can with the knowledge they have, the ones complaining what have they done.

[@joseamador255]

So I'm a getting the sense that Americans kinda like it, but many Africans see as exploitative.

[@lae6331]

worst part is Disney plus isnt available in Africa so no one has watched it...

[@sarah2172]

@@lae6331 it's available through multiple channels/networks that show around Africa-they made sure to have that happen

[@matinajazmine]

@@sarah2172 those channels are neither available all over africa .I also haven't watched it cause of that

[@kaonashiyakuza]

She would get bashed either she talked about them or not If she didn't.. she's not uplifting her roots if she did she's exploiting them 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@bibaolaitan5189]

True.. plus because Africans re super religious ppl are calling this demonic music.. such stupidness!!

[@ismarikabasnet2163]

Why even a controversary?This is epic man.The project is so good .I am so proud of black people because of what beyonce shows .People please be proud of her and her album

[@okpaekhama9543]

Ismarika Basnet I won't be proud of nonsense

[@AngelasTravelAdventures]

I agree. We have been scattered as a people all over this planet. Our ancestors didn't choose to come here. If you were born and raised on the continent of Africa, consider it a blessing. We who have not, are learning.

[@ccjammy5270]

@@AngelasTravelAdventures period

[@khanyi8512]

Angela's Travel Adventures but people can learn without claiming...not to discard people away from African cultures but it does become cultural appropriation when people start practicing the culture without understanding it or fully practicing it...it’s like someone wanting be “African” but not fully committing like most of us have for almost all our lives...it’s a way of life not something you can decided on anytime you want...unfortunately nothing is going to change if we keep looking back and pointing fingers at slavery...it affected almost every person of color...

[@lae6331]

she showed you wakanda..not africa

[@janicekemoli1041]

Beyonce has delivered an amazing, uplifting, and beautiful album. Please stop the negativity. Already is so moving and positive. Just dance and appreciate. Stay positive.

[@evgeniam685]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/g4qbf5mwmNNkp7M

[@ccjammy5270]

@@evgeniam685 thank you

[@lae6331]

y'all really want us to accept someone who does world tour concert without including Africa ,.. then has the audacity to make a movie about it??

[@danielmino1690]

@@lae6331 the movie isnt about africa ignorant, is about the lion king HELLO

[@theotherside931]

*Representation of Africa should start in Africa.*

[@olukunmiakinrinde8133]

Where it starts doesn't matter...its a matter of deep consciousness

[@SteadyNUnremitting]

If only that was the case. Not some Africans are seeking validation from white people. Hence why some black people, deemed the African spiritual traditions as demonic. Colonialism really did a number on Africa

[@ChosenJudaHiTess_TheShemiTess]

Representation Of Africa Can't Start In Africa Because We're World-wide In The DIASPORA & We Trend Set Everywhere❣️ I Just Watched A 2Nechki Video About Dances We've Been Doing For Decades In America❣️

[@ChosenJudaHiTess_TheShemiTess]

@Fact Check They Have Well Made Counterfeit Cash & Most People Don't Know This Fact❣️ You Call Yourself Fact Check❔

[@ChosenJudaHiTess_TheShemiTess]

@Fact Check If You Know Rich Nigerians Who're Richer Than Legitimately Rich Bey & They Have USD....It 99% Counterfeit....Don't Be Fooled❣️ Yes, They Make It Rain Counterfeit❣️

[@VanNyaimbo]

Beyoncé did her part, those criticizing her, should do their own part and then we can see. The world is enormous and there are still more to be done. Humain beings are funny: they make it their mission to criticize instead of understanding, encouraging, being grateful ,showing compassion,....

[@rerecmbraggs]

agreed

[@eyecfreedom9599]

She is a f....ing Demon

[@trinilovely860]

Exactly

[@DonovanRobinson420]

And creating their own shit if they’re mad!!! 🙄

[@tradingtvprofit5324]

3:11 2020 Money Guide kzbin.info/www/bejne/rIaVhX97brFjrpI

[@malong3974]

Disney plus isnt even available in Africa . Beyoncé doesn’t even add african countries to her tours . We appreciate it but as a Nigerian ( she has a massive fan base here ) we think she needs to stop using Africa as an aesthetic . She should have put this on Netflix or in cinemas so that it is accessible for African people to watch . Edit: it aired on dstv and it was amazing ! yes we are all one , and every black person is from Africa . But from an africans perspective : We are tired of artists using /adoring our culture , but not actually coming for concerts or tours . Tired of you saying how «hard working » we are but not actually investing in us ( dont donate to us , acc invest in us ) . here in Nigeria we have huge respect for artists that come here and we treat them as family : megantheestallion, jcole, cardi b , future,dave , major layzer have all come . So its irritating seeing artists promoting our culture but not actually visiting. Same with african Americans , you’re more than welcome to come to the motherland and explore your routes ( its really cheap too 😹)

[@juju2xs753]

You right tho, let’s go back and perform for our mother land

[@greenhornet8262]

Beyoncé has performed in Africa before. She’s been to South Africa, Ethiopia, and Ghana

[@autumnjade815]

Respectfully, we are equally tired of continental Africans looking down on us because we happened to have been STOLEN from Africa centuries ago. If you wanted the African aesthetic to only be used by continental Africans, you 400 years to take back from Europe what they stole. Instead, 400 years of silence. We are not asking for your permission to use anything. We are starting come back and take what is also ours, SANKOFA.

[@sleepyyymoon]

​@@autumnjade815 In those '400 years of silence' do you think Africa was a UTOPIA???!

[@autumnjade815]

@@sleepyyymoon Hell no, no one said it was. My point is don't watch people literally come into YOUR backyard, steal people, do NOTHING about and be mad 400 years later when they're showing up on your doorstep coming to take a piece of what is rightfully theirs. The right to regulate that was forfeited long ago. BLOOD, DNA, that doesn't lie. And just like the many monarchs of the world OUR bloodline was ordained by GOD and kept safe by OUR Ancestors. Who are you to interfere?

[@silversleep731]

Riddle me this: what more could Black Is King have done to make this "controversy" disappear? People are upset because there was too much royalty...so? There were also common people shown. People say that there's too much capitalism....so? Nearly every culture values wealth. BIK contains a great many references to various cultures across the continent, but in less than 1.5 hours, can BIK talk about them all, and in depth? Of course not. I think people just judge Beyonce too harshly is all. She is, after all, African-American.

[@mercykarmaent5331]

Exactly And a woman And its unheard of what she is doing.. Growing pains And she has power know one else has in ways. The power her backing her The history is amazing She is risen Rising let her go.. Love B Proud of her what I have seen so far. And I am white and blonde. But a sister none the less

[@nicolausthothmes2325]

Is she actually African american though?

[@mercykarmaent5331]

@@nicolausthothmes2325 of course Don't hate or begrudge your sister.

[@aminap208]

L M ..BLACK IS KING. 🖤✊🏾 (Just because BLACK IS KING doesn’t mean others are not..in fact we’ve been immersed in WHITE royalty our entire lives without a choice in the matter. I think we’ll all be okay. I’m not Black, and if I can say BLACK IS KING without getting offended, I think we all can. Let’s let go of any underlying resentment/entitlement.)

[@mercykarmaent5331]

@L M true that part isn't necessarily right. Saying someone is better the someone and this is a lie. We are all equal.

[@StanHandler]

It's funny how when it's a black artists who represents Africa, it's "controversial". First Beyonce is a singer not a documentary maker. Second, thank to that movie we have been able to discover many new black and african artists. Just for that it's a victory. Western media need to stop trying to pin us against each other.

[@potatopotatoeOG]

Sadly it's even us against each other.. very sad

[@laniacurb5783]

It's weird cuz I know thousands of non black or non African people who do it but they don't care until it's someone whose actually close to them

[@duvalonepiece9496]

exactly, its white men fault

[@Uraniumore299]

That's where the white people with a western mindset running media is good at. Don't mind them. Maybe they're threatened if the world sees this.

[@dirtyapronrestaurant7742]

When I watched it all I can say was wow it was so pretty

[@ccarter509]

How do Africans depict black Americans in their media? Serious question.

[@thoughtsofimpact2488]

Its not about black lives matter. The "black" in "black is king" is talking about Satanism.

[@joe_lubinda]

@@thoughtsofimpact2488 gtfoh

[@aaronbrutus2654]

@@thoughtsofimpact2488 that is ancient African history not satanism.

[@aaronbrutus2654]

@Ohgoshwatnow youtube is illuminati. The food you eat and your daily news. Even your school system. Why gang up on beyonce?

[@tabithakimani7499]

To us all black people are our brothers and sisters. We see them as children of Africa

[@kitgumayegang2562]

In a age of internet judges... You face injustices in every aspect

[@Tadzio5050]

Conversation is a better context for this than controversy. Name a work of art, film, or piece of music that's been met with universal approval and acclaim. As an American black person who has listened and loves this work, I find it one of the most thoughtful collabs between African American artists and African artists. The continent of Africa is enormous and there is no way Beyonce could have represented it all. What she has done is hand over her platform, most of the music put African artists center stage. The result is something to be very proud of.

[@user-pl5nu6vn7c]

Im black and the entire thing is laughable. Talking so high about black is king while giving nothing to african people suffering in Africa. It's all for show and clout. What about promoting the black girl group you signed? or singing other black girl groups? or better yet starting a company where you promote only black artist? Beyonce would never. It's all for attention. That money going back into her and Jay z wallet ONLY.

[@laqudori]

Well said

[@kidakwizzy9049]

@@user-pl5nu6vn7c it's cultural empowerment plus people suffer everywhere in the world stop making it seem like africa only has poor people yes some are some are not just like the rest of the world she doesn't owe africa anything so why not appreciate the album

[@sizomahlangu5938]

There is 54 countries and over 3000 tribes in Africa Why do we always have to hate on a good thing?

[@elhadjiousmanesam8006]

Your skin is not only dark it shines and it tells your stories 💋♥️❤️🇸🇳

[@brillionton1]

Black Is King

[@HelloKitty-kb7ji]

yes, in the parallel reality

[@abubakarrasheed.7654]

E.A doesn't need recognition we have it already

[@TheOthole]

WORD.

[@hopenoel6421]

Excellent

[@Bee-it8sx]

No we don’t don’t lie

[@naomihall5710]

Cant please everybody. Everybody wants to be represented but the reality is we all cant be at the same moment. Ie. In black is king

[@BorisMtytan]

she did well. I thoroughly enjoyed it

[@ttban1988]

Beyoncé showing the whole world the richness of Africa is just so admirable people are gonna critic her no matter what, it she did her job PERIOD

[@chinosbreakroom3645]

The richness of Africa,oil,gold etc was not shown please only the parts of our that where useful to this over hyped project

[@msbronzegoddess3166]

@@chinosbreakroom3645 su

[@lae6331]

she showed you wakanda.. not africa😂😂

[@kidakwizzy9049]

@@chinosbreakroom3645 richness in terms of culture not wealth

[@tommiedam4167]

I'm a white European male and have to say that I learned a lot about Africa and its rich culture because of this movie. Not only were the visuals and songs stunning, each shot, hairstyle, colour and clothing item meant something and was put in there with great precision. Did research to it and was amazed by all the culture and things that were represented in this movie. Thought it was very moving and inspiring! Black people are truly a beautiful kind of people!

[@ms.rstake_1211]

This is very sweet... Thanks.

[@kalyndasmith4137]

Thank you kindly

[@okpaekhama9543]

Tommiedam I hate this black is King so much and I'm tired of explaining why. It's sad African Americans can't see beyond the colors and the transcript. It's not positive, we are not three tribes! Of course I didn't expect her to put all African tribes but she should specify. How many times do you hear people say Asian or North American or European culture? Never. Because they consist of different countries. We are the most diverse continent and we deserve better representation! Why is my Culture never portrayed in it's functionality? Always Eye candy or visual enticement adding to the "Africans are dumb" idea. It's not good. She only filmed in two African countries and it's not even available here! Now being African is a trend, I remember when African Americans called us booty scratchers and morons now it's their culture? How would you like it if we said we made rap because it's of the same race? A lot of our culture is post colonial just like yours is after slavery. You guys are Americans before Africans get that into your skulls. You're fighting for equality yet claiming Africa, make up your minds!

[@raganelle]

As an African American, I think there can be a tendency for many of us of the diaspora to gravitate to various aesthetics of the continent which can serve as a time capsule of sorts... it's therapeutic...celebratory...transectional and introductory. And from there, with continued immersion we catch up to speed. Clearly, Beyonce's effort is not of monolithic intent.

[@Maames]

People are missing the point, if you pay attention to the narrative, she was paying homage to marine spirits, Orisha... The whole visual was a ritual.. If you know you know

[@erikathomas5801]

Somebody tell em

[@hannahluv6208]

Lol ...aunty it is a movie...same way u watch Greek mythology and enjoy it ...don’t add any other thing to it ....ami don’t see u guys using all this energy on other Hollywood movie u watch

[@Maames]

@@hannahluv6208 okay ooo I hear you. Each one to their own and what they see innit. ✌️ 😘

[@samsonogbole2416]

A good piece of Art stimulates conversation. For someone who is not on the Beyonce bandwagon, I think she has used her platform to do very well for to force this conversation. Good one B!

[@agogobeattiejames9634]

Black is king no matter what 👑❤✌🏽

[@user-jd2lh6fb5z]

СРОЧНО В РОССИИ ЖИТЕЛИ РЕШИЛИ БОРОТЬСЯ с корумпированой властью в в путина методом РАСКЛЕИВАНИЯ ЛИСТОВОК С НАДПИСЯМИ заражения Химическим новичком Химическим новичком и кароновирусом на здания полиции и чиновников

[@ms.rstake_1211]

Facts

[@Ank6612]

Why y’all got to make everything controversial?

[@evgeniam685]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/g4qbf5mwmNNkp7M

[@III-ip8uc]

Blacks didn’t build Egypt

[@leonieloves8617]

III7 your right blacks didn’t build Egypt, Africans did.

[@III-ip8uc]

LeonieLoves yeah brown African people did build Egypt not black Africans

[@Ank6612]

III7 WTF are you talking about?

[@hasanx4637]

what did you expect from half white Beyonce? That's her vision of Africa.

[@hasanx4637]

@Blue Lava she's white enough and besides that you're basically repeating what I said. Why should we expect anything deep from her?

[@hasanx4637]

@Blue Lava again I never called her white, but we're all influenced by the dominant society. some more than others. (see Beyonce) Unfortunately the black American community does not have a very well educated view of Africa as a whole and many have a negative view or at best a misguided view of Africa based on how the dominant society has portrayed the continent over the years. My point like yours was why expect so much from a pop starlet? she has given us no reason to expect much. Let her sing and dance with blonde hair and lingerie. That's her thing.

[@hasanx4637]

@Blue Lava okay sister. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fp7dnXxuqZ1khKs or into Engawe for example.

[@karabo166]

To those that are critisizing Black Is King, what are you doing to change the African narrative publicly?

[@okpaekhama9543]

Karabo Monageng how does that connect?

[@okpaekhama9543]

If for anything she's even tainting our image more. After this shit I've been getting useless ass questions from my white friends about me. So what are you saying

[@karabo166]

@@okpaekhama9543 for me those who critic should the one who are doing even better. If people are just critisizing for the sake of just that, then they arent helping anyone

[@karabo166]

@@okpaekhama9543 well there will always be many of those hey🤷🏿‍♂️but since they are asking you the stupid questions, answer them according even when its annoying so that they dont ask those kind of questions again.

[@okpaekhama9543]

Karabo Monageng so you see how this "narrative" is still unfair

[@CJvibez2008]

"We are in the middle of a black Renaissance" i LOVE that ! ❤🌻

[@hellenoluwafemi8601]

Jesus Christ is coming soon. He's coming is near, please everyone repent from your sins and ask Jesus to come in to your heart and be your lord and saviour. Jesus Christ love you all so much.

[@thatman4752]

Racism in its most pure form is to fill in the blank with your skin tone "___ is king"

[@justgodwise7873]

Everytime somebody tie black with beauty and prestige its a problem welcome to America.

[@Mona-ue5uk]

The host is so soft and excellent commentators. Well done!

[@chanelsimone6072]

I think we as a whole “black” people have to realize outside of ourselves everyone else lumps us together. This should start conversations like the guy said are having a black renaissance and many of us are ill aware of the whole “black” experience in and out of our respective countries! So let’s tell our varied stories! Celebrate them! Teach! Many don’t even know Africa is a continent of many countries ... I know... just sad! Many aren’t even aware of where black people ended up in the diaspora! How that shaped those cultures. I for one would love to learn more!

[@bohdiklaus6272]

My people like complaining

[@mariamaerman6114]

This was based on the Lion King though ? Not the 54 countries of Africa. It was beautifully done considering it was only an hour and a half.

[@Sean1877]

Maria Maerman @Right..the lion king story is based in East Africa the Serengeti in Tanzania to be exact, but non of it is represented.

[@mariamaerman6114]

@ShxxMza This is one artist's perception of “Africa” . It’s meant to be appreciated as art and not taken literally. As a South African I cannot relate to most of it but I appreciate it nonetheless. I’m sure there are programs on Nat Geo that would better represent and showcase the whole of Africa - if that’s what you’re looking for .

[@Sean1877]

Maria Maerman @Well said..did appreciate her overall content in terms of her prospective..viewed it also as being very entertaining. In recent years African artists in general have taken upon them selves to represent us internationally so we good anyway.

[@mariamaerman6114]

Agreed. Peace and love to you @Shxxmza

[@Sean1877]

Maria Maerman @Love✌🏽️

[@lorettajames9900]

We African Americans have a vision of Africa that is based on what we were taught. It is grand, beautiful, multi cultural and the place were Black Kings ruled. Beyonce produced this project to spotlight all the things that we believe about African countries. But she is an African American so her view is limited. It is up to the people who live in the various African countries to tell their stories. Until then we will celebrate Africa the only way we know how....through our own creations.

[@rimun5235]

Fun fact, my tribe has no kings or even chiefs...

[@javionriley8739]

What us black Americans have in vision Africa as being a unified continent aka pan Africanism is something those people are still working on!! us black Americans are visionary people!! Africans for the most part lack that in there culture!! There not innovators!! They just recycle the same belief/traditions for thousand of years getting the same result!! This pan African movement of one Africa that is taking place via single African passport, via African free continental trade area is all being pushed by black Americans concept of one Africa !! The very thing Africans are attacking black Americans on. 🤣🤣 how dare black Americans see Africa as united in the future

[@indihighvibrations8310]

Ppl love to complain... make your own film about Africa

[@firststar2]

@??well she did. We waiting on yours....

[@ndl881]

Hmmm... How is it not the place of an African descendant to create art around her African ancestry & the pride/peace she's found in it?

[@DonovanRobinson420]

?? Well we’re waiting on YOURS!!!!

[@DonovanRobinson420]

?? Because you sound BITTER and like a HATER!!! So we’re waiting for you to do better and create a better product! Don’t just sit there and complain! You have so much to say about someone else’s positive message, WE’RE WAITING ON YOURS!!!!!!!! PERIOD!!!!

[@khanyi8512]

D Robinson but please understand a culture is a way of life...we don’t pick a choose it...wats done is done and people need to accept it...it’s not about show casing the culture ,it’s about understanding that you have to respect another’s culture . And keep in mind...going around choosing a culture becomes cultural appropriation

[@mrlibyanb7855]

As an African ( North African) I appreciate what Beyoncé did! It’s an artistic way of making people of Africa and black peoples everywhere proud! I don’t get the criticism! Beyoncé should be celebrated

[@geronimoheavyshadow5046]

Black people are not represented by north africans, we maybe in the same continent but we're not the same people, we never seen people from north Africa representing the whole Africa or puting black African on display when it comes to represent

[@mrlibyanb7855]

Geronimo Heavy Shadow talk about hate and racism, your comment couldn’t be more racist and hateful! Well like or not we are considered Africans and Africa comes in many shades ✋🏻✋🏼✋🏽✋🏾✋🏿enough outta you

[@geronimoheavyshadow5046]

@@mrlibyanb7855 talk about negrophobia in north Africa, and show me examples of north african personalities representing black africans or doing something great that put black africans on display, you're just here calling people racist for saying some facts and y'all always wanna be a part of us only when the black culture is popping and black personalities are doing great things for us to be proud of.

[@mrlibyanb7855]

Geronimo Heavy Shadow you don’t even know me to make such a strong judgment about me! Not that i care what you think nor do I care to prove anything to you! Now get the fuck outta my face hater and go bother someone who would care about you and your opinion

[@geronimoheavyshadow5046]

@Funky Hyena they'r always all of a sudden proud to be Africans and wanna associate with black when it comes to benefit from our culture, and he is the one calling me racist but will never talk about negrophobia in North Africa and the fact that they never considered us as theirs by the way they treat us

[@stacyh3441]

I wish Beyonce would admit to her skin bleaching and what that means. Appreciate your skin. You don’t need to lighten it. Also, she’s copied content from other minority creators, so she doesn’t seem like the best person to represent black culture and the struggles within.

[@whoknows4260]

She seems to skip Africa on all her tours tho

[@charmainekgomotsomokwana5625]

Because we can't afford her She also came to sa few times

[@milwaukeemotor5995]

i wonder if americans did a film with the tile white is king if there would be a protest on the title alone

[@leila4509]

Either portray African cultures accurately or don’t do it at all. It felt really out of touch. Travel a day in any African country and you’ll know. This only perpetuates the myth of African being a “dark continent” - a myth that started from colonization. People ask me if I have internet and even law and order in my home country and I now understand why. If a movie was made about black Americans in a stereotypically way there would be outrage. As an “African” I feel no connection to this film.

[@shanashaylove6630]

Omg it was entertainment be entertained smh lol it wasn't a documentary 🙄🙄🤣

[@manada00]

Every form of media can be critiqued

[@manada00]

@Rufus Maruf everyone is a critic one way or the other

[@adriansmith4036]

Wake the F*** I all that ish is devil symbolism

[@stevendunn2501]

Entertainment is never just entertainment. There is messaging in media. Those who do not acknowledge and respect that fact are Philistines.

[@stormstorm7396]

@@manada00 I agree lol

[@Victor-Goncalves]

I'm sorry but all this sound a little misconceived to me. Beyoncé never really intended to represent the ENTIRE African continent, Beyoncé herself told in an interview that she hopes Black Is King SHIFTS THE GLOBAL PERCEPTION OF THE WORD "BLACK", which always meant inspiration, love, strengh and beauty to her. Black Is King means BLACK (not necessarily African because not all africans are black nor all blacks are African) IS REGAL, IS RICH IN CULTURE, IN PURPOSE, IN LINEAGE. Also, if you didn't see East Africa being represented then your knowledge/vision of East Africa is very, very narrow! There are MANY references to East Africa in Black Is King: 1 - the lip plates and horn hairstyles of Mursi's tribe in Ethiopia and Dinka's tribe in South Sudan; 2 - the white at royal funerals in Uganda; 3 - being as rich and powerful as Queen Sheba of Ethiopia; 4 - the accesories, hair pieces and gold of the Kushite/Nubian Empire (Sudan); 5 - blacks jumping like the Maasai warriors of Kenya; 6 - the Nile river itself, the longest in the entire world and mostly in East Africa (Sudan, Ethiopia, Uganda and Burundi), the river is a huge part of these cultures that have been cultivating for millennia, even before Kemet; 7 - Beyoncé singing in Swahili, the Bantu language found in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi; 8 - ADUT AKECH HERSELF, the "new look" of Fashion and South Sudanese beauty overall finally becoming to be more appreciated all over the world. These are the references I picked up, there might be more.

[@KINGANNEvlogs]

I need thisssss to be top commentttttt periodttt😭

[@Mybigsaltinecrackers]

"My baby father, bloodline Rwanda Why would you try me? Why would you bother? I am Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter I am the Nala, sister of Yoruba Oshun, Queen Sheba, I am the mother Ankh on my gold chain, ice on my whole chain I be like soul food, I am a whole mood"

[@Marymwangi0007]

It's easy to sit down and critique someone's work. Beyonce is ONE person one she opened a door for a lot of people especially African creators. She couldn't possibly portray Africa as a whole there are tooo many cultures involved if people some type of way About what she put out then, do something about come out and do something of your own....and tell the stories as how you see fit...I don't see how people can have a problem with Beyonce and have no problem with blank panther

[@layorhskye7492]

What's wrong with black panther???

[@abby-a]

I love the song Beyonce did with Shatta Wale on this black is king album that was *powerful* and amazing 🖤🖤✊🏾✊🏾

[@Ntsmith4]

Wasn’t particularly impressed with this segment. I understand how native Africans may feel, however they themselves haven’t come together to create a collaborative collective of media art that has displayed the imagery and identity they want to be known for. That leaves African Americans to do their own Interpretation. I feel that a lot of African Americans are trying desperately to RECONNECT to our roots - however we are treated like outsiders by our fellow Native African brothers & sisters. Imagine if we all united through strength and knowledge across the seas. I always wondered why there isn’t a group or organization that helps provide information and resources to those wanting to return to the motherland? That’s something the African governments should implement if they want to rebuild the nations and economies of the land. This is the AFRICAN Renaissance and we want to come home. Help us instead of criticizing us.

[@Akinwalesegun]

Tgey desperate try to connect with what their "imagination" of their africans roots. I.e most african american are of west african origin but when they talk about history they mention Egypt, ethopia, israel basically a history they made up as a reaction to white people, Which a massives deviation from the histories we west african have. Here lies the disconnect

[@jawz2005]

Hey this isn't entirely true. Africa is a large continent with a plethora of media content. There are many works of art displaying this rich culture however this will not reach your American media outlets. There are many programmes in place to attract African Americans to come back to Africa. Ghana have made the most effort in this and I think Gambia may be second.

[@jawz2005]

@@Akinwalesegun to group all african Americans in this box is inaccurate. African Americans take pride in the achievements of the African people and there is a big movement to whitewash African, especially Egyptians, achievements. Since it is said many that Egyptians were Caucasians, African Americans have to claim Egyptians as there Ancestors to counter this. Black Israelites are a whole other story

[@nyatichimitchelle9336]

I don't think the problem is that Africans haven't created a collective, I think its that African Americans haven't been exposed to and genuinely don't know where to get such info for the longest time. But now with the internet its easier. There are lots of African KZbinrs/ content creators who document about Africa and African Americans can start watching such content, you can even look out for African musicians, celebrities, photographers, videographers, etc. And you'll see Africa in an amazing way not how foreign media represents it. Its unfortunate that even the internet represents Africa wrongly, you can figure our how to get around google, and see Africa differently by the choice of words you use while googling

[@SteadyNUnremitting]

Well said! They say all these things, but no one is doing the work.

[@RDCFemmes]

Africa been rising way before Beyonce. Yes we do want reconciliation with african decedent but we don't need their approval to give sense to our identity. Yes we have are issues, yes there is a lot of work to be done but I believe that Africa is more than enough for itself. We need more leaders like General Muammar Gaddafi. He wanted to build an Africa for Africans and that is the real reason he was a threat to the west.

[@larrydavis6798]

really? ehh, you fuckers just won't be satisfied

[@issahayatu8124]

Nm a j.a ##3 W pj( .(*" ?1jD T

[@wandamaximoff7495]

Gaddafi hated black people. He openly discriminated against the black Libyans (Toubou) and attempted to migrate Arabs to Southern Libya to breed out the black ones

[@ms.rstake_1211]

Reading your comment 2ce I do see it has an accusatory tone. As a West African I proudly stand with all people of Sub-Saharan African descent and celebrate our unity and rise. Plus I want to add that Gaddafi was like Castro... someone who wanted to use black people for his own means. They both had black/Sub-Saharan African but never really identified as such and their "unifying language" was similar to the Chinese (though less capitalistic) when they 1st started doing business in black communities and black countries/nations.

[@Fay1106]

You need allies as well if u could do it on your own you would have already

[@maroonhorizon1693]

Why are non Africans in the comments telling Africans how to feel. Very odd to me.

[@sleepyyymoon]

There's too many Americans telling Africans to basically shut up, it's so...arrogant

[@rimun5235]

@@sleepyyymoon What I don’t like is that let’s be real. The transatlantic slave trade was a largely western African affair that also midly touched on central Africa. Many of us in the continent know of the slave trade but it doesn’t concern us because we never participated. The whole continent cannot be treated as sellers of slaves when some of us never participated. The Arabs for instance never ventured into interia Kenya or Tanzania so you’ll find many tribes were completely untouched by any slave trade. You won’t find any Diasporan with zulu or Maasai blood. So we should not bear the burdens of what other people’s ancestors did just because we happen to be from the same continent.

[@sleepyyymoon]

@@rimun5235 Exactly, there's so much ignorance around the vastness and diversity of Africa and its history. People don't realise just _how_ DIVERSE Africa is, they just generalise, generalise and generalise.

[@shreklovedonkay2725]

I'm native American, but because of how this world is I get lumped together with Africans anyway ( past ages 1700s, 1800s, 1900s ). Which recently I learned is true because Africans/ Ethiopians were in north America long before Columbus and were among the people in old art carvings. I think the greatest irony in all of humanity is even though were all originating from Africa in ancient times ' including how the other ancient nations referred to Africans, we will still see proud people thinking they are better than them / us while were all living on the same dinner plate with the same problems.

[@misakiyui942]

Isn't it annoying to be called Indian then. I mean that "title" stems from such ignorance really.

[@worldpowerpeopleallracesma8582]

If Beyonce lived in Africa for a long time and suffered the way Africans did or have she would sell her house and give up everything to feed them, that's how deep the pain is

[@1alexisfan]

sorry but actual africans who have suffered and risen to riches haven't even done that

[@worldpowerpeopleallracesma8582]

@@1alexisfan I know, it's sad. Everyone gets rich and completely forgets everything they went through or learned about poverty because they fear ever going back to poverty themselves, it's traumatizing but for me that would make me want to help people even more! .They don't wanna fall trying to save others I understand. But I try to keep in mind Yeshua the massiah died for our sins the least we can do is give him the glory by helping as much as we can or die trying. Then again not everyone is a believer of Yeshua so, can't expect them to follow his ways! I am not rich but I try to help as much as I can. I want to make that a practice so when I do get rich I can keep practicing that! And I pray to never turn a cold shoulder on those in need in Africa and other countries!

[@lethabomoropa3242]

Maybe Beyoncé wasn't actually representing African culture, she was pushing her own spiritual agenda.

[@rexarthur2274]

Yes it is a Black Rennaissance ..LET'S GO !!!

[@angelabby2379]

wow..... this is the equivalent of saying justin bieber is european rennaissance.... ...... ...... dumb af lol

[@rexarthur2274]

@@angelabby2379 LOL

[@kidakwizzy9049]

@@angelabby2379 justin bieber doesn't have a White is king album does he

[@infojsha]

Burna Boy is doing the same he's telling the story from our perspective

[@chi8772]

While also using the stereotypes (face paintings and leopard fur customes in wonderful video) y’all claim to h@te so much

[@kehindelawal4081]

The press focuses on what they want to, however insignificant or distracting

[@danikawilliams8290]

While watching the visual album I saw and heard so many different references of what “black” is. I guess that was the whole point of the visual album. I saw and heard Pan African, African American, Hispanic, Indian, and Caribbean representation. Naomi Campbell representing the United Kingdom. Also, Beyoncé herself has French, Native American, and African blood running through her veins. I think the whole point was to open our eyes to the fact that black is literally everywhere and beautiful too like everything else. I think she mentions something like that in the visual album also. No more division.

[@merweeziefosheezie5518]

Africa is a continent. Beyoncé could not possibly hope you capture every single aspect of the myriad of different cultures it has to offer. Though it may seem that she cherry picked which portions to show people, I see a bigger picture. She hooked us in with Black is King and, as such, we should be inspired to do our own research to find out more. We can't put the pressure on one person to cover all of Africa in an hour and a half long visual album that is telling a very specific story.

[@africanusworld9302]

Agreed. And we have heard all the negative news already. Balance denotes tis the season to celebrate the positives. Upful

[@sheilaallen2146]

Well said

[@rebirthrebby]

Many people critic the trailer but haven't seen the whole movie. If you look up The Gift documentary, you can see Beyonce is taking it very seriously, she did lots of research, connect with African artists, and produce new genre mixing American and African music. People always focus on what she didn't do rather than appreciate what she has done. She's making history and she influences the new generation. Don't forget that she is 38, has 3 kids, and keeps producing music, live shows, visual albums, working nonstop, and raising the bar.

[@charismao5515]

Preach! This was a masterpiece of pure black joy and liberation of ones true self. I can tell that those critiquing haven’t actually watched it

[@proverbalizer]

Wow, I love the movie (and music), but I haven't seen the documentary

[@Theowill]

It’s an artistic interpretation of Beyonce’s vision. That’s it. If you have a story to tell do it.

[@ddoddy76]

Beyonce was trying to be the representation of All of Africa and all the different cultures, one person could never do that... But what is more hurtful is how some Africans would love to disconnect African Americans from their roots... African Americans are hated in America for being black and from Africa.... And Africans hate us for being Americans...... So sad!!! No matter where you are in life We are kings and Queens...

[@yudelkapaniagua2692]

I've watched a lot of TV shows here in the states. I love to watch shows that dive into cultures. We have TV shows like Vikings, Game of Thrones, we have Percy Jackson, Rapunzel, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Cinderella, Brave, we have movies about Romans, and the Greeks. Most of the time not a single black person is in those movies and TV shows. Why? Because they are not black culture. They are different European cultures, and so it makes sense that they don't have people who look like me in those movies, so it would be stupid of me to be offended they didn't "add me" into the movies or say they weren't inclusive. Now that Black is King is here I want to know why some white people expect the film to be inclusive when clearly this is about African culture. Why are they offended when they literally have millions of shows and movies with them being represented exclusively? It honestly doesn't make any sense to me.

[@writinghealth]

The Romans also had an African Emperor.

[@jo1361]

Who gives a toss what non black people think. I loved her continued celebration on how God chooses to reveal the omnipotent presence to black people in our form and what this means to us.

[@benlawrence309]

Honestly music video are not to be taken seriously, they are ultimately a form of entertainment to be enjoyed. Nothing more. There are plenty of other ways to represent diverse cultures in a more accurate / respected light.

[@emiliob7428]

It's on Disney Plus, Disney Plus should not make anything controversial

[@picklecandy2507]

African Americans who never lived in Africa are trying to tell the story of Africa 🤔

[@RedHatClub]

Exactly.

[@autumnjade815]

It think you missed the point of the visual album. Did you even watch it? Eventhough Africa was the backdrop and a recurring theme, the message was for those who are NOT living on the continent. It was meant to show those who have lost their connection, a piece of where they come from. She repeats over and over about hidden/stolen history. Is that the story of Africans??? No. You know your ancestral history, you know your language amongst other things. This was not your story at all. Yet Beyonce still tried to be inclusive of all.

[@autumnjade815]

@@badbtchondeck2843 Talk to 'em!

[@picklecandy2507]

@@badbtchondeck2843 Wow chill nigga Iam black too😢

[@picklecandy2507]

@@badbtchondeck2843 Ill take this comment down if it hurts you that bad stan

[@msontopoftheworld]

My own issue with one of the videos (I haven't seen the whole thing) was that I felt it was Cultural Appropriation. A lot of Beyonce's work feature African themes, cultures, dances, etc and I'm starting to feel like she's taking African stories and rewriting them in an Americanised way. The video "Already" shows men in blue/purple suits doing the Maasai dance moves. Maasai tribe is Kenyan/East African; meanwhile her collaboration in that song is with a West African. I feel like Africans should be telling African stories; don't take from our culture, modernise it, and tell us and the rest of the world that this is African culture. No! Don't forget that she's a business woman, who's profiting from all of this...where does that leave the remaining 99% of African artists, creatives, film makers, etc who don't have the resources to use their own culture in the way that she does? If someone like her wants to push Africa forward, she should be taking on a supportive role in her collabs, and not ALWAYS being the star of the show and modifying certain aspects to what suits her best. She didn't work with East African artists because they don't have as huge a platform as the West & South Africans. What does that tell you about her intentions? I think, because a lot of African Americans call her queen Bey, she's taking that nickname a little too literally.

[@sleepyyymoon]

I agree tbh, it's not hateful to point that out. But it's really difficult to get ppl to understand this because they deify Beyonce, and any small criticism is seen as an attack

[@msontopoftheworld]

@@sleepyyymoon Absolutely! But it still needs to be said. In fairness to her A-A fans though; it's like she's their link to the mother-land... they've always been told - mainly by white narratives - that their ancestors were inferior, and that they were lucky to have been dragged out of the "dark continent". Her narratives tell a different story, which I guess makes them see her as some sort of "saviour" ? 🤷🏾‍♀️

[@okpaekhama9543]

MsOnTopOfTheWorld I hate this black is King so much and I'm tired of explaining why. It's sad African Americans can't see beyond the colors and the transcript. It's not positive, we are not three tribes! Of course I didn't expect her to put all African tribes but she should specify. How many times do you hear people say Asian or North American or European culture? Never. Because they consist of different countries. We are the most diverse continent and we deserve better representation! Why is my Culture never portrayed in it's functionality? Always Eye candy or visual enticement adding to the "Africans are dumb" idea. It's not good. She only filmed in two African countries and it's not even available here! Now being African is a trend, I remember when African Americans called us booty scratchers and morons now it's their culture? How would you like it if we said we made rap because it's of the same race? A lot of our culture is post colonial just like yours is after slavery. You guys are Americans before Africans get that into your skulls. You're fighting for equality yet claiming Africa, make up your minds!

[@jacquelinejacqueline162]

Beyonce has pushed the doors open to MORE major Conversations, Collaborations and Beautiful Creations between Africa and it's diaspora. All hail the Great Comings.🌍

[@lindalinda8600]

I thought it was about connecting to african spirituality/religion

[@WhenShitGetsRhea]

This woman was trying to lessen the cultural divide and y’all just cry and make noise. She employed hundreds of Africans and pumped their resumes which will eventually lead to better opportunities. Let me see the majority of y’all incorporate the whole continent with thousands of tribes, subgroups, and languages into a one hour film while stimulating job growth and opportunities for native Africans... from my understanding she stuck mostly to a few west African countries because that’s where her bloodline would most likely come from and it’s also reflective of the Ghanaian and Nigerian artists she worked with. The film was waaaaaay deeper than pretty African prints, royalty and dancing. That film was LACED with our spirituality and folklore but it went right over your head Here for y’all who can’t read between the lines kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZyoi2uFrK2kZ68

[@writinghealth]

I am launching a podcast too about the controversy. To just say "we just cry and make noise"misses the point here.. I think you should listen to Yvette Carnel's video "Black is King makes a mockery of our [American descents of slavery lineage]".

[@gihozolisa8506]

As an African my biggest issues with Beyoncé is that: 1) she represented mainly Nigerian, Ghanaian and South African cultures as if they are the sole cultures available on the continent. It would have been better if she said I am representing Nigerian or South African culture rather than African culture because they are over 1000 cultures on the continent so if you want to truly represent African cultures then all African voices must be heard. Or at least pick some cultures from all five regions of the continent (North, South, West, East and Central) rather than focusing on one region only and branding it the only voice of the African people. We are not homogeneous in any form or way. 2) She unknowingly promoted the very hated stereotype that we wear animal prints, live in the jungle or wild and put face paints regularly. Basically she ignored modern day Africa in the name of “Representing African culture” I would have personally loved if modern day Africa was represented too as our past isn’t the only thing that defines us. 3) As for African spirituality, although some of us practice our ancestors faiths, majority of us are either Christian or Muslim so I think this perspective should have been included considering it is reflective of the majority. I also want to take this time to educate people who think Islam and Christianity were forced upon us that some African countries and cultures e.g: Mali, Senegal, Ethiopia, Eritrea, etc were Muslims and Christians way before the Europeans and Arabs. As for trying to lessen the cultural divide, I personally think that instead of forcing ourselves to relate to each other, we should talk about ourselves to each other. We are different and that’s ok because we bring different perspectives on the table and they should all be respected rather than ridiculed or shun away.

[@sleepyyymoon]

You are being very condescending because a lot of Africans have made very valid points, but you see anything as an attack to Beyonce when you could actually try and empathise.

[@WhenShitGetsRhea]

Pancho Mulongeni i don’t subscribe to that fool. Please find someone else and I’ll gladly listen.

[@WhenShitGetsRhea]

Biko Gihozo Lisa The point of excluding the Abrahamic faiths were to have us in the diaspora educate ourselves on what spirituality we took on before being indoctrinated into Christianity or Islam unwillingly. I can say the cow animal print in the Shatta Wale vidéo were not about you guys adorning them but rather giving a nod to the Ancient Egyptian goddess Hathor who’s symbolic animal is in fact the cow. Islam was forced upon west Africans. You can ask the Dogon who hid away in the mountains of Mali (who were featured in the Black is King) and still do today to avoid their spiritual practices from being wiped away. Muhammad’s pilgrimage and the Arabs across east to west Africa is what brought Islam there. It never existed pre 7th century and there is absolutely no proof of that. And if you’re talking about it being forced upon people in the east, we can talk the slave trades that took place in east Africa which had those people take on Islam as well. Ethiopia is the only country that took on Christianity without a mass conquering. Please do your research before you talk of such things my dear. Like I said before she featured those nations because those African artists represented those nations. This was not a hail to modern day but an ode to the past so that people in the diaspora who have no idea of where they came from can look back.

[@kwakukwaku3965]

Please!!!!! Our Maame Beyonce also featured the King of Africa (Ghana) #Shatterwale in his album too but u forgot to mention it first .

[@manofculture8666]

A good portion of the controversy has nothing to do with the fact that "not all African cultures are captured"... it's has more to do with the spiritual innuendos. Talking openly about gods like Osun (Yoruba god), right after you made a song (Hold Up) talking about how you use pages from the Bible to "clog up your menses" (pretty much using the Bible as a tampon). THAT is where the controversy really is.

[@ms.rstake_1211]

She has a right to represent Sub-Saharan African spirituality, plus I don't think you really listened or understood a her lyrics.

[@manofculture8666]

@@ms.rstake_1211 Which lyrics? The one where she said "I clogged up my menses with pages from the Holy Book"? or where she says she's coming with that "Osun" energy. It's crazy how so many Africans don't fully agree with Juju (what these gods are used for), but African Americans accept it with open arms because Beyonce mentioned it. You guys don't even know what Juju entails 😂😂😂😂. You support something you don't understand AT ALL. They could literally support human sacrifice and you guys will clap and cheer like blind sheep 🐑. Go to Africa, preferably Nigeria for at least 1 year, in a village where they practice Juju heavily and worship these gods you so embrace with open arms and I can promise you, you'll come back with a different opinion lol.

[@manofculture8666]

@@ms.rstake_1211 That's like me wanting to embrace American history by supporting the KKK as it's something embedded in American history. Without even knowing what it's about.

[@evgeniam685]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/g4qbf5mwmNNkp7M

[@bincyelizabeth19799]

black is there in Asia as well not in Africa alone , Black Asians must be recognized as well.

[@aminaalhassandiasso1842]

Well she gets her blackness from Africa not Asia

[@michaeladams8422]

I Love it...It's original and the talent of Beyonce is God sent. Thank you Beyonce because you gave me joy. Love you...Doris McGhee Knight

[@bincyelizabeth19799]

@@aminaalhassandiasso1842 i meant the title of the song black is king, dear sister, in the video she should have included asian blacks as well.

[@geronimoheavyshadow5046]

@@bincyelizabeth19799 let black Asian personalities represent black asians

[@Fay1106]

@@bincyelizabeth19799 black is still black anywhere last time I checked why don't you include Asian blacks and make a movie showcasing them?

[@Jobe-13]

I personally think it was great. Plus, one album cannot possibly represent EVERY culture within the continent of Africa. Just one African nation alone already has several internal distinctive cultures.

[@n3phatkomu30]

i wish black panther was acted by africans from africa

[@matinajazmine]

Bambadjan Bamba,lupita nyong'o are from Africa

[@n3phatkomu30]

@@matinajazmine all cast

[@marnawha]

This is a mess, wakeup people and pay attention to the bigger picture

[@richmrstonestone]

It's sad that black people don't always understand the difference between entertainment and what is academic.

[@-Scrapper-]

It's sad some people only see art as entertainment

[@mimiandy1683]

I believe Beyonce only wanted to showcase certain art from specific regions because those areas were used for the Trans-Atlantic slave trade.