Another historic moment of the 2022 Oscars thanks to the incomparable “Queen Bey” who delivered a stellar performance at the 94th Academy Awards. On behalf of the black excellence coalition and beyhive nation, this opening act was all that and more!
Let’s start with the location! Beyoncé performed “Be Alive” at the popular tennis court where sisters Venus Williams and Serena Williams practiced often in their hometown of Compton, Los Angeles. The special tribute was an homage to the box office hit movie “King Richard“; a biopic and sports story about the rise and fame of Williams sisters under the guidance and protection of their father Richard Williams; played by actor Will Smith. This film acknowledges and personifies black love, family, and determination.
In a category all by herself, Beyoncé never disappoints and she knows how to give an iconic tribute rendition and make a statement when she performs on center stage. The tennis ball yellow dress ensemble, the braids and beaded hairstyles, live vocals, performative dance, and musical arrangements was on point per usual. The performance included her daughter Blue Ivy ,and California native Madison Calley who is a black harpist.
Sadly, the Oscars failed to give Beyoncé her flowers last night and continued their running theme of color use and shunning tactics. It’s no secret that Oscars viewership declined significantly in recent years with protests from both sides calling for more inclusivity in their nominations and winners of black folks who are often snubbed for their talent over white peer nominees. It seems the 2015 “OscarsSoWhite” hashtag is reigning its popularity again in 2022.
This isn’t the first time Beyoncé was snubbed. Back in 2017, following the release of her “Lemonade” album – the singer was asked to perform to boost ratings but she didn’t received a Grammy nod. At the 2020 Golden Globes, Beyoncé was also snubbed for her record “Spirit”; which by far was the best song on the “Lion King” film movie remake soundtrack. Despite it all, Beyoncé continues to make music “For Us – By Us” (FUBU) and that’s why we will always stand up for “Queen Bey”.
King Richard received six nominations at this year Academy Awards and last night Will Smith took home his first academy for Best Actor .
One Love Plums!