In this episode of #BlackExcellence we highlight a woman who’s first name alone is recognized worldwide as a pillar of artistry, philanthropy, business, social justice and overall Black Excellence.

iHeartRadio’s Jamar McNeil walks you through some of the many reasons why Beyoncé is an example of Black Excellence.

Queen B’s evolution started as a Little B in Houston TX, performing in talent competitions. Beyoncé has said that seeing Michael Jackson perform when she was five years old inspired her to pursue a music career. She has also cited Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey as her influences.

At 8 She was part of a 6 girl group called Girls Thyme who after a loss on the famous TV talent show Star Search, broke off to a 4 girl group called Destiny’s Child! By the time they split in 2005 Beyoncé and her group mates were considered one of the best girl groups of all time.

As a solo artist Beyoncé went on to become a phenomenon. Hits like Single Ladies, Run the World, Halo, Baby Boy, Crazy In Love are STILL to this day Hip Hop and R&B party ANTHEMS.  She’s a literal hit maker. She is the first solo artist to have six consecutive albums debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and the only artist, besides Mariah Carey, to have No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in four different decades.

Beyoncé is a singer a dancer producer voice actor, director Beyoncé Dominates On stage, Behind the Mic and in front of the camera. Beyoncé made her big screen debut as Foxxy Cleopatra opposite Canada’s Mike Myers in 2002’s Austin Powers in Goldmember. Four years later, she earned a Golden Globe nomination for her role in Dream Girls and has gone on to play the voice of Nala in Disney’s remake of The Lion King!

As her star and her voice grew so did her influence and with it, her desire to affect change. She’s a Self described modern day feminist, she’s spoken out in favour of gun control, LGBTQ discrimination and has been more than present during the social justice fight against anti Black racism.

From start to finish Beyoncé's story is one of a Child of Destiny who’s become a Black Woman of Excellence. All hail Queen Bey, Beyoncé

Check back for more #BlackExcellence​ episodes throughout #BlackHistoryMonth​

CREDITS:
Research By Jamar McNeil, John R. Kennedy

Single Ladies, Columbia Records
Run The world, Columbia Records, Parkwood
Halo, Columbia
Baby Boy, Columbia Records and Music World
Crazy In Love, Columbia Records and Music World

Austin Powers, New Line Cinema
Lemonade Film, Parkwood Entertainment, Good Company

Beyoncé Earns 6th No. 1 Album on Billboard 200 Chart By Keith Culfield
https://www.billboard.com/articles/business/chart-beat/7350372/beyonce-earns-sixth-no-1-album-on-billboard-200-chart-with-lemonade

Beyoncé calls for Social and Judicial Changes after this weeks Robbery of Lives By Hilary Weaver
https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2016/07/beyonce-end-gun-violence