Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, the multifaceted superstar, rarely participates in interviews, but when she does, her insights resonate deeply. As the cover feature of the October issue of GQ, titled “The Business of Being Beyoncé Knowles-Carter,” she opens up about her expansive career and her latest venture into the spirits industry.
In a significant expansion of her already impressive empire, Beyoncé is launching a whiskey called SirDavis, named after her great-grandfather. This addition complements her established music, clothing, and haircare lines.
Reflecting on three decades in the spotlight, Beyoncé discusses her evolution as both an artist and a person. Following the release of her acclaimed eighth album, “Act II: Cowboy Carter,” Beyoncé stated, “I am proud of what I have been able to do, but I also recognize the sacrifices — mine and my family’s.”
In her candid conversation with the magazine, she revealed the pressures she faced earlier in her career, saying, “There was a time when I was pushing myself to meet unrealistic deadlines, while not taking the time to enjoy the benefits of why I was working so hard. There aren’t many of us from the late ’90s who were taught to focus on mental health.” She added, “Back then, I had little boundaries, and said yes to everything. But I’ve paid my dues a hundred times over.”
Her dedication extends beyond her professional life, particularly regarding her daughter, Blue Ivy. At just 12 years old, Blue expressed a desire to join her mother onstage during the Renaissance tour. While Beyoncé initially hesitated, she ultimately recognized her daughter’s passion, stating, “Blue is an artist. She has great taste in music and fashion. She is a fantastic editor, painter, and actress. She has been creating characters since she was three. She’s a natural, but I did not want Blue onstage. Blue wanted it for herself. She took it seriously and she earned it. And most importantly, she had fun! We all watched her grow more and more every night before our eyes.”
Beyoncé shared her thoughts on the challenges young women face in the music industry today. She expressed admiration for emerging artists, saying, “I love and respect all of the female singers-songwriters who are out right now… Raye, Victoria Monét, Sasha Keable, Chloe x Halle, and Reneé Rapp. I love Doechii and GloRilla, and I just heard That Mexican OT, he’s from Houston…. He goes hard! I really like ‘Please Please Please’ by Sabrina Carpenter, and I think that Thee Sacred Souls and Chappell Roan are talented and interesting.”
In addition, she acknowledged the legendary artists who have influenced her, remarking on the enduring power of acts like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and music from the Stax label.
Beyoncé’s artistic integrity has been a cornerstone of her success, which is evident in her decision to forego visuals for her recent albums. Explaining her choice, she stated, “I thought it was important that during a time where all we see is visuals, that the world can focus on the voice. The music is enough. The fans from all over the world became the visual. We all got the visual on tour.”
Her innovative approach continues to redefine the music landscape, even as she emphasizes the importance of substance over trend. “I retired from the formula of the pop star a very long time ago,” Beyoncé affirmed. “I stopped focusing on what’s popular and began focusing on the qualities that get better with time and experience. Good music and strong messages will never retire.”
As Beyoncé forges ahead in her illustrious career, it’s evident that the business of being her is thriving.
