Beys in The Trap and Triumphing Authenticity

Beyonces "Black Parade" and the Reclamation of Authenticity in Music

By Camille 

Beyoncé's latest single, "Black Parade," is more than just a catchy tune – it's a powerful representation of protest solidarity for Black Lives. In this amalgamation of hip hop, gansta rap, slurred vocals, crunk beats, and Southern Twang, Beyoncé brings forth the essence of trap music, a genre pioneered in 1990s Georgia, USA.

The song pays homage to Beyoncé's roots, much like how "Texas hold'em" is rooted in her Texas heritage. She begins with the line, "I'm goin back to the South, I'm goin, back, back, back, back. Where my roots ain't watered down..." This nod to her origins speaks to the struggle many minorities face in being told to change how they look or speak to fit into societal norms, often deeming their accents or inflections as uneducated or lacking.

Beyoncé's foray into the Country Pop genre feels like a natural progression, a renaissance that was bound to happen. As I've previously noted, African American artists are not strangers to the country genre. When Lil Nas X released "Old Town Road" with Billy Ray Cyrus, it felt like a natural artistic exploration. He exudes the stoic inflection of a down and dirty country pop star, much like Beyoncé.

Some might see this as a reclamation of authenticity, but that implies Beyoncé was being inauthentic, which I don't believe is the case. However, it does speak to the importance of genre-bending and exploration within contemporary music. It expands the peak of country music and pushes beyond the norms of what we're accustomed to.

Beyoncé's return to her roots signifies a reclaiming of her authentic self, particularly in a world where certain accents, intonations, and dialects are stigmatized. "Black Parade" isn't just a song – it's a movement, a Black Parade of pride and solidarity.

This exploration extends beyond music into broader conversations about the Black Lives Matter movement, ideas about Black power, and the advocacy for Black-owned creativity and dissemination. "Black Parade" serves as a form of protest solidarity, echoing themes of empowerment and pride in Black identity. Beyoncé's unapologetic embrace of her heritage aligns with broader movements for Black empowerment and self-determination.

Through her music and cultural influence, Beyoncé disseminates Black voices and perspectives to a wider audience. By incorporating elements of various genres into her work, she exposes listeners to the richness and diversity of Black culture, fostering greater understanding and solidarity among diverse communities.

In conclusion, Beyoncé's "Black Parade" and her broader artistic endeavors contribute to the advancement of Black empowerment, representation, and creativity within the music industry and beyond. By embracing her roots, challenging stereotypes, and amplifying Black voices, she inspires positive change and promotes inclusivity and equity in society.