Beyoncé Graces Essence's March April 2024 Cover in Style

Beyoncé graces Essence's Mar/Apr 2024 cover, reveals country twist in Renaissance trilogy. Exclusive photos by Andre D. Wagner.

Beyoncé, the 32-time Grammy winner, graces the cover of Essence Magazine's highly anticipated March April 2024 edition, captured through the lens of esteemed fashion photographer Andre D. Wagner. Styling for the iconic shoot was masterfully curated by Shiona Turini, with set design envisioned by Bette Adams, and production expertly handled by The Morrison Group. Completing the stunning visuals are the works of the talented beauty team: hair stylists Neal Farinah + Nakia Rachon Collins, makeup artist Rokael, and manicurist Miho Okawara.

In a move that stunned fans and the music industry alike, Beyoncé unveiled the next chapter of her ambitious Renaissance trilogy during the Super Bowl LVIII festivities on February 11. The iconic artist dropped two country singles, “16 Carriages” and “Texas Hold ‘Em,” signaling a bold departure in her musical journey. The announcement, shared via a captivating Instagram video, offered a tantalizing glimpse into Beyoncé’s exploration of country music, accompanied by visuals and sounds that evoke the essence of classic Americana.

The teaser video, set against Chuck Berry’s “Maybelline” and featuring scenes reminiscent of Wim Wenders’ 1984 film “Paris, Texas,” hints at the thematic and stylistic elements of the upcoming act. With “Texas Hold ‘Em” co-written by Canadian artist Lowell and contributions from an impressive lineup including Rhiannon Giddens, Raphael Saadiq, and Hit-Boy, and “16 Carriages” featuring talents like Dave Hamelin and Justus West, the singles promise a captivating fusion of country influences and Beyoncé’s unparalleled artistry.

The unexpected album news followed a Verizon commercial aired during the Super Bowl, where Beyoncé teased the release of new music, followed by her appearance at the 2024 Grammys sporting a white cowboy hat – further fueling speculation about her country-inspired pivot. Renaissance, Beyoncé’s seventh solo studio album released in July 2022, marked the first act of the trilogy, setting the stage for subsequent releases. Despite eschewing traditional music videos, the album was promoted through innovative formats, including the globally screened concert film, “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé,” which soared to the No. 1 spot in the U.S. during its debut weekend.

“Break My Soul” earned nominations for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Dance/Electronic Recording at the 2023 Grammy Awards, with Beyoncé clinching the latter. Her triumph at the Grammys, where she secured four awards, propelled her career wins to an unprecedented 32, solidifying her status as the artist with the most Grammy wins in the award show’s illustrious history.

Photography by Andre D. Wagner for Essence Magazine, for more details visit essence.com