Beyoncé Opens Up About "Representing My Culture" in Historic British Vogue Cover Story

Published on 10/30/2020 at 6:05 PM

When Beyoncé makes moves, she makes moves. On the heels of her highly anticipated Adidas x Ivy Park Drip 2 launch, the 39-year-old mogul has graced not one, but three new British Vogue covers for a special feature. As expected, Queen Bey looks flawless in each snapshot, rocking ensembles from her latest collection, as well as Alexander McQueen, Atsuko Kudo, Christian Louboutin, Mugler, and Jimmy Choo. The cover shots are also historic emblems, as 21-year-old photographer Kennedi Carter is the youngest person to capture images for British Vogue's glossy front page.

Speaking to the magazine, Beyoncé opened up about how the events of 2020 have affected her and what she hopes to accomplish by uplifting Black voices. Check out her standout quotes ahead, then read the full feature in the December issue of British Vogue, available via digital download and on newsstands Friday, Nov. 6.

On how the events of 2020 have affected her: "It would be difficult to experience life in a pandemic and the current social unrest and not be changed. I have learnt that my voice is clearer when I am still. I truly cherish this time with my family, and my new goal is to slow down and shed stressful things from my life."
On the importance of focusing on herself: "I came into the music industry at 15 years old and grew up with the world watching, and I have put out projects non-stop. I released Lemonade during the Formation World Tour, gave birth to twins, performed at Coachella, directed Homecoming, went on another world tour with Jay, then Black Is King, all back to back. It's been heavy and hectic. I've spent a lot of time focusing on building my legacy and representing my culture the best way I know how. Now, I've decided to give myself permission to focus on my joy."

On how having Blue Ivy gave her a new perspective on life: "Something cracked open inside of me right after giving birth to my first daughter. From that point on, I truly understood my power, and motherhood has been my biggest inspiration. It became my mission to make sure she lived in a world where she feels truly seen and valued."
On dedicating Black Is King to her son, Sir: "I was also deeply inspired by my trip to South Africa with my family. And, after having my son, Sir Carter, I felt it was important to uplift and praise our boys and to assure that they grow up with enough films, children's books and music that promote emotional intelligence, self-value and our rich history. That's why the film is dedicated to him."