The Real Meaning Behind Beyonce's Already
It's a fabulous time for music fans, as just one week after Taylor Swift released her eighth album, Folklore, Beyonce dropped the visual album, Black Is King, on July 31, 2020. The work, which Beyonce wrote, directed, and executive produced, partners with the 2019 album, The Lion King: The Gift. As many fans already know, the record got made for the Lion King film, in which the star voiced Nala.
"My hope for this film is that it shifts the global perception of the word 'Black,' which has always meant inspiration and love and strength and beauty to me," the Texas native said in a message shared with Good Morning America. "But 'Black Is King' means Black is regal and rich in history in purpose and in lineage. I hope y'all love it, I hope you enjoy it and I hope y'all see it tonight."
Although fans got the chance to hear "Already" back in 2019, Beyonce's music video sheds new light on the lyrics. With that in mind, let's explore the real meaning behind the song below.
'Already' is an homage to confidence and greatness
"Already" is a collaboration between Beyonce, Ghanaian singer Shatta Wale, and musical trio Major Lazer, and it encourages listeners to embrace their inner power and confidence. "Long live the king, you a king, you know it / King already, already, you know it / Top everything, everything, you know it," Beyonce belts out in the chorus. Wale adds to this theme in the refrain, singing, "Remember who you are, ooh (Osh) / Real king always win, oh (Osh) / You for be brave, oh (Osh)." And in the outro, the Ghana native reiterates, "Be your own king / Make nobody come rule your world (Yo, yo, yo, yo) / Be your own king."
The visual companion to "Already" reaffirms this inspiring message, as there are many scenes of Beyonce, Wale, and background dancers standing tall in their power. Wale sits on a throne at one point, and in another shot, he proudly poses on top of a horse. Every visual in this video screams confidence, and it's a beautiful homage to what can transpire when one steps into their own greatness.
We can't think of a better message to put forth, and it aligns perfectly with Disney's summary of the project. "Black Is King is an affirmation of a grand purpose, with lush visuals that celebrate Black resilience and culture," it said in a statement, per The Hollywood Reporter. "The film highlights the beauty of tradition and Black excellence."