Beyoncé has another big surprise for fans.
The singer’s visual album, Black Is King, inspired by The Lion King, is coming to Disney+ next month. Written, directed, and executive produced by Beyoncé, the film will premiere globally on the streaming service on July 31, one year after the theatrical release Disney’s live-action reboot The Lion King, for which Queen Bey voiced Nala.
Black Is King, described as a “celebratory memoir for the world on the Black experience,” was inspired by the music The Lion King: The Gift, which featured contributions from JAY-Z, Kendrick Lamar, Childish Gambino, Pharrell, Blue Ivy Carter, Jessie Reyez, Tierra Whack, Burna Boy, SAINt JHN, and more.
According to Rolling Stone, the film will feature videos for “My Power,” “Mood 4 Eva,” and “Brown Skin Girl,” as well as appearances by the album’s featured artists and some “special guests.”
On Saturday night, the epic trailer was released on Beyonce.com featuring a cameo from JAY-Z. “A journey is a gift,” says Bey in the one-minute clip. “The ancestors never left you.”
“This visual album from Beyoncé reimagines the lessons The Lion King for today’s young kings and queens in search their own crowns,” Disney said in a statement. “The film was in production for one year with a cast and crew that represent diversity and connectivity.”
“The voyages Black families, throughout time, are honored in a tale about a young king’s transcendent journey through betrayal, love and self-identity. His ancestors help guide him toward his destiny, and with his father’s teachings and guidance from his childhood love, he earns the virtues needed to reclaim his home and throne,” Disney added.
“These timeless lessons are revealed and reflected through Black voices today, now sitting in their own power. Black Is King is an affirmation a grand purpose, with lush visuals that celebrate Black resilience and culture. The film highlights the beauty tradition and Black excellence.”
In honor Juneteenth, Beyoncé released her empowering song “Black Parade” with proceeds benefitting BeyGOOD’s Black Business Impact Fund, which supports Black-owned small businesses.