The Beginner's Guide to Afrofuturism

If you’re on the lookout for yet another modern-day example of Afrofuturism, let me tell you, Beyoncé’s “Renaissance” album and the accompanying tour were nothing short of mind-blowing. I might not be a card-carrying member of the BeyHive, but I fell head over heels for the electronic house and disco vibes of this album. Beyoncé graced us with more than just an album, tour and film; she gifted us a journey into the cosmic realm of Afrofuturism. “Renaissance” not only captivated audiences but also served as a modern-day exhibition of the genre at its finest. Ultimately, I opted to skip the physical show, but “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé” still made a huge impact on me. Now, I’m here to share how this trifecta made a seismic impact on the world and Afrofuturism.

All Up In Your (Cosmic) Mind

First things first, the title itself – “Renaissance.” It’s no coincidence that Beyoncé chose this name at a time when Afrofuturism is experiencing a renaissance of its own. In the film, Bey opens up about her fascination (and society’s obsession) with time, especially as she embraces her 40s. This theme echoes throughout the entire production. From the album drop to the tour and movie, everything was intentional and meticulously crafted. The Afrofuturistic moments in the production, especially the recurring themes of space, time and technology showcased Beyoncé’s commitment to creating a unique and transcending experience.

She explained that it took four years to create the show, and oh boy, was it worth the wait. The Afrofuturistic elements were everywhere, from the imagery of her as a robot challenging societal expectations to the overarching theme of creating one’s own world as a form of escapism. It’s an experience that transcends the conventional concert setting, making it more of a cosmic undertaking. Then of course, there’s the iconic silver horse depicted on the album cover along with a super-sized version her and her dancers performed in front of and a life-sized version that she rode while performing the final song on her tour set list, “Summer Renaissance.” As Bey stated in “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé”: “Anything that’s repressed or in my subconscious, I allow to come out when I’m on the stage.”

Alien Superstar(s)

Let’s talk costumes and dancers – while usually the unsung heroes of any great performance, Queen Bey made sure every one of them including her own daughter shined in the “Renaissance” galaxy. The visual spectacle of each dance number was just as important as the music itself, creating an otherworldly experience for audience members. The ongoing celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community and ballroom culture spoke to the inclusive mission that she embraced from the start. She honored her late Uncle Johnny, a gay Black fashion designer, in the song “Heated” and payed homage to him during the tour.

Vikram Kolli from Harvard Political Review adequately explains the significance of this work: “The tour stands out amongst the sea of vibrant, colorful lyricism that is the rest of her discography. When elements of voguing, ballroom culture and queer icons are coupled with Beyoncé’s countless references to the LGBTQ+ community, the new album establishes itself as not only a transformative work of art but a radiant recognition of the queer culture that has long found solace and inspiration in her music.”

The “Renaissance” tour really did have everything: celebration, exploration and liberation. The superstars of the show weren’t just on stage however, they were in the audience as well. Countless fans appeared in silver and chrome outfits in honor of Beyoncé’s birthday and Virgo-inspired theme. Dubbed as her royal birthday decree, she signaled this initiation through a post on Instagram that read: “Virgo season is upon us.” Apparently silver, on a cosmic level, is in close alignment with the astrological sign. This entire experience was set up to be the ultimate “Virgo’s Groove.” Kyle Denis from Billboard gives more insight into the tour and film’s significance: “Perhaps more than any of her previous tours, the choreography and dancers utilized on the ‘Renaissance World Tour’ embodied a new level of freedom and self-expression for both Beyoncé and the audience. Getting to hear from some of the key players in those lanes — including dance captain Amari Marshall — is the stuff proper concert documentaries are made of.”

America Has a Problem (It’s the Cost of Admission)

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – the cost of admission. Sure, the concert was boosting local economies, but the price tag was steep. Many, myself included, found it challenging to justify draining bank accounts or skipping rent payments for a single ticket. The tour’s popularity skyrocketed over the summer, with fans willing to pay top dollar for a glimpse of Queen Bey.

I’ll admit, I toyed with the idea of attending the Philly show but couldn’t bring myself to hit ‘purchase’ on a $500 nosebleed seat. Despite the FOMO, I found solace in following the tour online and catching the immersive experience through “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé.” Trust me; it was more than enough. I got to see the magic behind the scenes and experience Bey’s creative genius as the writer, director and producer of the film. Billboard also magnificently captivates the experience of watching the film: “Pitch-perfect editing spliced together several costumes per tour segment, with outfits and hairstyles changing at the drop of a beat; golds fade into reds and cowboy hats morph into club kid-styled dad hats. Beyoncé even pointed out why she dressed her tour crew in reflective tracksuits — her goal was to highlight their choreography and contributions to the show’s success.” 

In the end, I made peace with my decision. I might have missed out on the live extravaganza of a lifetime, but watching the film in a theater filled with Beyoncé’s aura was an experience that was honestly enough for me. She is a force to be reckoned with to say the least and sitting in a plush red AMC seat, I still felt moved. Fellow moviegoers danced and sang right alongside me, and it felt like we were in our own (much more affordable) “Renaissance” concert. Sometimes, it’s not about the seat you’re in; it’s about feeling the inspiration and magic in the air. As Beyoncé said on the album, “You Won’t Break My Soul.”

I’m That Girl (And So Are You)

Regardless of gender I think the “Renaissance” trifecta made everyone who is even remotely a fan of Beyoncé feel like they were that girl. She has this remarkable talent for not only singing, dancing, writing and so much more but making us all feel like we’re worthy; like we belong. The social commentary alone about what it means to be marginalized in America is what makes her truly shine (in addition to her impeccable vocals, choreography, directing, etc.) In the song “I’m That Girl” she sings about being considered un-American in our society while fighting for her shine in what she calls D-Flawless skies. D-Flawless is the cut of a diamond that only someone like the queen herself could afford btw. The significance of this expression, however, is that even in a universe that is unaccepting we can still accept ourselves, be accepting of others and open the door for everyone to accept themselves as well. That is what Bey did flawlessly with the “Renaissance” movement by way of Afrofuturism.

When she announced the release of the album on Instagram she wrote: “Creating this album allowed me a place to dream and to find escape during a scary time for the world. It allowed me to feel free and adventurous in a time when little else was moving. My intention was to create a safe place, a place without judgment. A place to be free of perfectionism and overthinking. A place to scream, release, feel freedom. It was a beautiful journey of exploration. I hope you find joy in this music. I hope it inspires you to release the wiggle. Ha! And to feel as unique, strong, and sexy as you are.”

As we reflect on Beyoncé’s profound impact and the electrifying journey of the “Renaissance” tour through the lens of Afrofuturism, we’re reminded of the transformative power of art and music. Beyoncé’s ability to weave together themes of empowerment, identity and resilience resonates deeply with audiences around the globe, transcending boundaries and sparking conversations about the future of Black culture and creativity. As we continue to explore the realms of Afrofuturism, let’s carry the spirit of Beyoncé’s “Renaissance” forward, embracing the limitless possibilities of a world where imagination and empowerment know no limits. Here’s to the summer of “Renaissance,” where Beyonce’s silver touch turned everything into cosmic gold.

Considering Beyoncé’s transformative impact and her fusion of Afrofuturism with contemporary artistry, which aspects of her “Renaissance” tour, album or movie resonate most deeply with you? Let me know in the comments below!