Beyoncé has taken her fans on an extraordinary journey with her Renaissance Tour, infusing it with the vibrant essence of the LGBTQ+ community and the captivating subculture of Harlem ballroom culture. With queer artists, such as Big Freedia, contributing to the album and including queer ballroom dancers like Honey Balenciaga and Carlos Basquiat, Queen Bey’s tour becomes a testament to inclusivity, inspiring joy, and empowerment among her audience.

The Essence Of Beyoncé’s Renaissance

Queen Bey’s album Renaissance, released on July 29, 2022, is a captivating fusion of disco, house music, and psychedelic beats that takes listeners on a sonic journey of liberation. In an Instagram caption, Beyoncé shared that the album allowed her to dream and escape during a challenging time, offering a safe place without judgment or perfectionism. 

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.”

The “CUFF IT” singer’s Renaissance era embraces the culture and art of Blackness, queer culture, and pays homage to her late Uncle Johnny, who was an essential inspiration to her and a prominent member of the LGBTQ+ community.

Honoring Uncle Johnny & Embracing Queer Ballroom Culture

Beyoncé’s late gay uncle, “Uncle Johnny, “ is significant in her heart and career. Through the lyrics of the 11th track on Renaissance, “Heated,” Beyoncé pays tribute to him and his influence on her life. The lyrics that capture this homage are: 

“Uncle Johnny made my dress, that cheap spandex– she looks a mess.” 

The album also features queer artists like Big Freedia, TS Madison, and New York City ballroom legends Kevin Aviance and Moi Renee, showcasing the diverse talent and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community. Including queer dancers such as Honey Balenciaga further amplifies the celebration of ballroom culture and the LGBTQ+ experience.

 A Touching Tribute & Lasting Influence

Following the release of Renaissance, Beyoncé’s mother, Tina Knowles shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, reminiscing about her close bond with Johnny and his multifaceted role in their lives. Johnny’s impact on Beyoncé and Solange’s sense of style and uniqueness profoundly shaped their artistic expression and individuality. 

Tina’s tribute highlights the enduring significance of Johnny’s memory and influence on the iconic singer’s journey as an artist.

The Renaissance Tour, which commenced on May 10, 2023, has become a global phenomenon, drawing massive crowds and breaking records. Beyoncé’s performances, outfits, and heartfelt tribute to the LGBTQ+ community have captivated audiences worldwide, embodying the essence of freedom, self-expression, and inclusivity. 

A Shoutout To Hip-Hop’s LGBTQ+ Artists

In hip-hop, many black LGBTQ artists, such as Lil Nas X and Saucy Santana are thriving, showcasing exceptional talent and making significant contributions to the industry.