10 years later: a look back at Beyoncé: self-titled

Flashback to 2013, when I was 22, navigating through the twists and turns that life had thrown my way. It had been a rough year, filled with challenges that left me searching for a sense of normalcy. I vividly remember that period – the highs, the lows, and the moments in between.

I wasn’t myself. I was searching for who I was again. I was back at home, trying to decide if I wanted to enroll back in school; wondering what my next steps would be.

It was a typical Thursday Night, Scandal on ABC had just ripped us bald (IF YOU KNOW YOU KNOW), so naturally, I was in the local group chats talking to my best friends recapping the show, and watching live after shows.  Then I saw the first tweet “Beyoncé dropped an album” 

I was confused because she was literally on tour.

There had been no promotions.

There had been no indication that something this big was coming.

The last album we had gotten from her was “4” (Schoolin’ Life Hive stand up!) So, there was no reason to believe it was true.

For all the young folks out there, this was before streaming. You either had to buy a physical copy or you had to buy a digital copy from iTunes or Zune (I’m showing my age). 

You could see when the realization had truly hit the timeline.  It was chaos.

Beyoncé had officially broken the internet with the unannounced release of her self-titled album, "Beyoncé." 

I could remember texting my friends “If I ask for $16.04 next week, don’t ask me why. Just know, Beyoncé came.” This was also when I realized I was definitely in the hive.

Once my initial shock turned into sheer intrigue, it was time to dive into the visual and auditory masterpiece she had dropped.

I had made my iTunes purchase and opened the album to realize that not only was there a full album but it came with VIDEOS FOR EVERY SONG + a bonus track! Naturally, I went straight to the videos. I watched the album all night memorizing all the lyrics and videos. This was obviously in my younger days when I didn’t need sleep to function.

The impact of this album on me was unreal. Beyoncé was taking us on a journey – her journey. The raw vulnerability in her lyrics and the unapologetic celebration of womanhood resonated with me on a level that transcended mere fandom.

It’s surreal to realize that I’m the age now that she was when she dropped self-titled. I can definitely resonate more today with the full body of work as a mom, wife, business owner, and just a full grown woman. "Beyoncé" was more than an album; it was a lifeline. In a year where I felt adrift, this album became my compass, guiding me back to the path of self-discovery and resilience. The unexpected drop mirrored the unpredictability of life itself, teaching me to find joy in surprises and strength in vulnerability.

"Beyoncé" wasn't just a musical experience; it was a catalyst for transformation. It marked a turning point in my life, propelling me forward with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.

10 years later, I encourage you to revisit the album, relive those magical moments, and appreciate the impact it has had on your own journey. 

Here's to a decade of "Beyoncé" – an album that not only defined an era but also helped me find my way forward. 🥂✨