Beyoncé has released a striking new trailer for her upcoming visual album called Black Is King to be released on Disney+.
Written, directed, executive produced and narrated by Queen Bey herself, the visual album is based on the music of last year’s The Lion King: The Gift soundtrack and film, in which Beyoncé voiced lion Nala in the remake of the classic film.
The trailer for Black Is King, released on Beyoncé website, is filled with Afrocentric imagery mixed in with shots of the singer adorned in beautifully elaborate costumes, and teasing glimpses of her family, Jay-Z and their children Blue Ivy, Rumi and Sir.
In a statement via Variety, the visual album is described as a “celebratory memoir for the world on the Black experience”, and will “reimagine the lessons of The Lion King for today’s young kings and queens in search of their own crowns”.
It continued: “The voyages of Black families, throughout time, are honoured 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.”
This release comes on the back of reports that Beyoncé has been in talks with Disney about a reported £80 million deal to release three films after her success with The Lion King.
Black Is King visual album is set to be released on Disney+ on 31 July 2020.
