1 of Beyoncé’s ‘Black Is King’ Looks Was, Reportedly, Inspired ‘by a Tribe in Chad’

From her baby reveal on Instagram to her Beychella yellow hoodie, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter is known to have a few memorable fashion moments. Thanks to the artist’s visual album, Black Is King, there are a few new looks for fans to analyze. 

That includes the hairstyle Beyoncé showcased in the “Spirit” music video, explained further by the hairstylist, Kim Kimble. 

Beyoncé recorded an album inspired by ‘The Lion King’

This actor took her involvement with Disney’s The Lion King one step further. After voicing the character Nala for the photo real adaptation, she created an album inspired by the story, titled The Lion King: The Gift.

This album wasn’t just Beyoncé singing. She featured artists and producers from across the world, all working together to bring the sounds of Africa to a new audience. She even created music videos for songs like “Bigger” and “Spirit,” earning praise and admiration from fans of all ages. 

Beyoncé featured African music and culture in her visual album, ‘Black Is King’

The artist took her art one step further. Thanks to a partnership with Disney’s streaming platform, Beyoncé released a visual album featuring the music of The Lion King: The Gift. This production aimed to inspire young viewers, and was even dedicated to Beyoncé’s son Sir Carter. 

However, Black is King also featured elements of African fashion, culture, and music. Hairstylist Kim Kimble broke down a few of the looks from the visual album for one interview, including those of the “Spirit” music video.

Where did the inspiration for Beyoncé’s ‘Spirit’ music video come from

Thanks to Kimble and her team, the stylist created the braided hairstyle featured in the “Spirit” music video. Beyoncé sported the look along with the chartreuse gown and hoop earrings. Kimble says the look was inspired by a tribe in Chad, where the women had “really long and intricate little braids.” 

“African hair and beauty is so unique, but it’s so colorful and very creative and very vibrant,” Kim Kimble, hairstylist for Black is King, said during an interview with In The Know. “That was one of the things I was really excited about for this project, that I get to work in this creative capacity, because I know African influence is out there and so that was probably one of the most exciting parts about it.”

The dances featured in the music video featured some of the same authentic elements, all while celebrating nature and telling the story of Disney’s live-action adaptation of The Lion King. (There’s even some clips from the movie featured between Beyoncé, her daughter, and the dancers.)

The Lion King: The Gift is available on most major music platforms. Beyoncé’s visual album, Black Is King, is available on Disney’s streaming service. To learn more about Disney+ and to subscribe, visit their website.