Beyoncé Announces New Visual Album Black Is King, Shares Trailer: Watch

Beyoncé has announced a new visual album called Black Is King. The project is written, directed, and executive produced by Beyoncé. It’s set to premiere on Disney+ on July 31. Watch the teaser trailer at Beyoncé’s website.

The singer-songwriter previously worked with the entertainment conglomerate on the “live-action” CGI remake of The Lion King, for which she recorded new music and curated the companion album The Lion King: The Gift. According to a press release, Black Is King “reimagines the lessons of The Lion King for today’s young kings and queens in search of their own crowns.” The film is based on the music of The Gift, features some of the album’s collaborators, and promises other special guest appearances. It’s referred to as “a celebratory memoir for the world on the Black experience.” It continues:

The voyages of Black families, throughout time, are honored in a tale
about a young king’s transcendent journey through betrayal, love and
self-identity. His ancestors help guide him toward his destiny, and
with his father’s teachings and guidance from his childhood love, he
earns the virtues needed to reclaim his home and throne.

These timeless lessons are revealed and reflected through Black voices
of today, now sitting in their own power. “Black Is King” is an
affirmation of a grand purpose, with lush visuals that celebrate Black
resilience and culture. The film highlights the beauty of tradition
and Black excellence.

Last year, Beyoncé released Beyoncé Presents: Making the Gift—a documentary detailing the recording process of the LP. She recently teamed up with Disney on ABC’s The Disney Family Singalong, during which she sang part of “When You Wish Upon a Star” as a tribute to healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Beyoncé recently released her latest single “BLACK PARADE,” which arrived on Juneteenth (June 19)— a day commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.

Read “5 Takeaways From Beyoncé’s HOMECOMING Documentary” over on the Pitch.