A new Beyoncé album is always a major event. Whether it drops unexpectedly or is announced ahead of time, her releases create a huge impact in the music world. But beyond the buzz, Beyoncé’s music is deeply personal, inviting listeners into her artistic and emotional journey.
Renaissance, her seventh solo album and first in six years, perfectly captures this blend of celebration and introspection. With 16 tracks that span multiple genres, the album immerses you in the joyful atmosphere of the club while hinting at the personal experiences that led her there. The lyrics reveal a desire for love and feelings of being underestimated, paired with confident bravado inspired by artists like Big Freedia and Kilo Ali.
The sound is a rich mix of styles—think Miami bass, space-funk, gospel harmonies, Detroit techno, and psychedelic soul—all merging in fresh, unexpected ways. Some songs even feel like mini mixes with shifting tempos. The standout track “Pure/Honey” dives into ball culture, sampling notable figures from the scene and evolving into a sparkling disco anthem.
Beyoncé has shared that she created Renaissance over the past two years to find freedom and adventure during a challenging time. While a “pandemic album” set in a nightclub might seem unusual, it actually makes sense; the dance floor fosters a sense of community, where everyone is experiencing music in their own unique way.
For 62 minutes, Renaissance invites listeners to lose themselves in its dynamic tracks. Beyoncé opted not to release videos for each song, encouraging a more immersive experience. The heavy beats help us let go of tension or confront it, as heard in the empowering “Cozy,” where she embraces her scars and celebrates her journey.
Since her debut in 2002 with “Work It Out,” Beyoncé has been teaching fans about Black music history through a contemporary lens. Renaissance opens with a sample from late Memphis hip-hop legend Princess Loko, setting the stage for Beyoncé’s triumph over obstacles. While the album features a few prominent collaborators like Beam, Tems, and Grace Jones, it also showcases a wide range of credits, from longtime partners like The-Dream to newer talents like Syd and Skrillex.
The myriad samples and collaborations on Renaissance could serve as a masterclass in the evolution of dance music throughout Beyoncé’s life. The closing track, “Summer Renaissance,” nods to both the album’s summer release and disco icon Donna Summer, with her classic “I Feel Love” at its core. It’s a powerful reminder that even in August, there’s always more to learn.
Renaissance is available now.
