History of Beyoncé in Timeline
Beyoncé Knowles-Carter is a highly influential American singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman. Renowned for her powerful vocals, musical versatility, and captivating live performances, she has significantly impacted the music industry and popular culture. Her work often explores themes of feminism, black identity, and female empowerment, contributing to important cultural conversations. As a successful entrepreneur, she has also established herself as a force in business, further solidifying her position as a multifaceted icon.
September 4, 1981: Beyoncé's Birth
On September 4, 1981, Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter was born. She is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman.
1981: Broadway Musical Dreamgirls
In 1981, the Broadway musical Dreamgirls premiered, which Beyoncé would later star in the film adaptation of.
1982: Creation of painting for "About Love" campaign
In 1982, Jean-Michel Basquiat created the painting titled Equals Pi, which was later featured in Tiffany & Co.'s "About Love" campaign with Beyoncé.
1990: Enrollment in Parker Elementary School
In the fall of 1990, Beyoncé enrolled in Parker Elementary School, a music magnet school in Houston, where she performed with the school's choir.
1992: Nielsen Top 40 airplay chart launch
In 2010, Beyoncé tied with Lady Gaga and Mariah Carey for most number-ones since the Nielsen Top 40 airplay chart launched in 1992.
October 5, 1995: Signing with Grass Roots Entertainment
On October 5, 1995, Girl's Tyme was signed by Dwayne Wiggins's Grass Roots Entertainment.
1995: Father Becomes Manager
In 1995, Beyoncé's father, Mathew, resigned from his job to manage the group Girl's Tyme, leading to financial strain on the family.
1996: Debut album recording and contract with Columbia Records
In 1996, the girls in Girl's Tyme began recording their debut album under an agreement with Sony Music, the Knowles family reunited, and shortly after, the group got a contract with Columbia Records.
1996: Name change to Destiny's Child
In 1996, the group changed their name to Destiny's Child.
1997: Rise to fame with Destiny's Child
In 1997, Beyoncé rose to fame as a member of Destiny's Child, which became one of the best-selling girl groups of all time.
1997: Release of 'Killing Time' and debut single
In 1997, Destiny's Child released their major label debut song "Killing Time" and later their debut single "No, No, No".
February 1998: Release of Debut Album
In February 1998, Destiny's Child released their self-titled debut album.
1999: Release of 'The Writing's on the Wall'
In 1999, Destiny's Child released their second album, The Writing's on the Wall, which featured successful songs like "Bills, Bills, Bills", "Jumpin' Jumpin'" and "Say My Name".
2000: Recording of "Independent Women Part I"
In 2000, Destiny's Child recorded "Independent Women Part I" for the Charlie's Angels soundtrack, which became their best-charting single.
May 2001: Release of Survivor Album and Lawsuit
In May 2001, Destiny's Child released their third album Survivor, which debuted at number one. Luckett and Roberson filed a lawsuit claiming the songs were aimed at them.
October 2001: Release of 8 Days of Christmas
In October 2001, Destiny's Child released their holiday album 8 Days of Christmas and announced a hiatus to pursue solo careers.
2001: ASCAP Pop Music Award
In 2001, Beyoncé became the first Black woman and second female lyricist to win the Pop Songwriter of the Year award at the ASCAP Pop Music Awards.
July 2002: Theatrical Film Debut in Austin Powers in Goldmember
In July 2002, Beyoncé made her theatrical film debut as Foxxy Cleopatra in Austin Powers in Goldmember.
October 2002: Feature on "'03 Bonnie & Clyde"
In October 2002, Beyoncé was featured on Jay-Z's song "'03 Bonnie & Clyde".
2002: Collaboration on "'03 Bonnie & Clyde"
In 2002, Beyoncé and Jay-Z collaborated on the song "'03 Bonnie & Clyde", which appeared on his seventh album The Blueprint 2: The Gift & The Curse (2002). Beyoncé also appeared as Jay-Z's girlfriend in the music video for the song, fueling speculation about their relationship.
2002: Songwriter of the Year Award
In 2002, Beyoncé received Songwriter of the Year from American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers becoming the First African American woman to win the award.
2002: Started painting portraits of women
In 2002, Beyoncé started painting portraits of women while filming Austin Powers. She created a special room with saris and pillows, lit candles, played Miles Davis and Björk, and painted all night.
2002: Partnership with Pepsi begins
In 2002, Beyoncé started working with Pepsi.
2002: Acting Debut in Austin Powers in Goldmember
In 2002, Beyoncé ventured into acting, starring in the film Austin Powers in Goldmember.
2002: Publication of Destiny's Style
In 2002, Beyoncé's mother co-wrote a book titled Destiny's Style, an account of how fashion affected the trio's success.
2002: Establishment of Knowles-Rowland Center for Youth
In 2002, Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland and Tina Knowles built the Knowles-Rowland Center for Youth, a community center in Downtown Houston.
June 14, 2003: Premiere of Solo Album Songs
On June 14, 2003, Beyoncé premiered songs from her first solo album, Dangerously in Love, during her first solo concert.
June 24, 2003: Release of 'Dangerously in Love'
On June 24, 2003, Beyoncé released her debut solo album, Dangerously in Love, after solo efforts by Michelle Williams and Kelly Rowland.
November 2003: Embarking on Dangerously in Love Tour
In November 2003, Beyoncé embarked on the Dangerously in Love Tour in Europe and later toured alongside Missy Elliott and Alicia Keys for the Verizon Ladies First Tour in North America.
2003: Starring in The Fighting Temptations
In 2003, Beyoncé starred in the musical comedy The Fighting Temptations as Lilly.
2003: Debut Solo Album Release
In 2003, Beyoncé's debut solo album, Dangerously in Love, was released and became one of the best-selling albums of the 21st century. It included the hit singles "Crazy in Love" and "Baby Boy".
2003: Dangerously In Love Inspiration
In 2003, Rihanna stated that after Beyoncé released Dangerously In Love album, she was inspired to start her singing career.
February 1, 2004: Performance at Super Bowl XXXVIII
On February 1, 2004, Beyoncé performed the American national anthem at Super Bowl XXXVIII in Houston, Texas.
November 15, 2004: Release of 'Destiny Fulfilled'
On November 15, 2004, Destiny's Child released Destiny Fulfilled, which included the singles "Lose My Breath" and "Soldier".
2004: Appearance in Pepsi commercial
In 2004, Beyoncé appeared in a Gladiator-themed commercial for Pepsi alongside Britney Spears, Pink, and Enrique Iglesias.
2004: NAACP Image Award
In 2004, Beyoncé received the NAACP Image Award for Entertainer of the Year.
June 11, 2005: Announcement of Destiny's Child Disbandment
On June 11, 2005, during the last stop of their European tour in Barcelona, Rowland announced that Destiny's Child would disband following the North American leg of the tour.
October 25, 2005: Release of 'Number 1's'
On October 25, 2005, Destiny's Child released their first compilation album Number 1's in the U.S.
2005: Founding of Survivor Foundation
Following Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland founded the Survivor Foundation to provide transitional housing to displaced families and provide means for new building construction, with an initial contribution of $250,000 from Beyoncé.
2005: Introduction of House of Deréon fashion line
In 2005, Beyoncé and her mother, Tina Knowles, introduced House of Deréon, a women's fashion line inspired by three generations of women in their family. The company Beyond Productions provides licensing and brand management for House of Deréon.
2005: Teaming up with House of Brands for footwear range
In 2005, Beyoncé partnered with House of Brands, a shoe company, to produce a range of footwear for House of Deréon.
2005: APEX Award
In 2005, Beyoncé received the APEX Award at the Trumpet Award honoring the achievements of Black African Americans.
March 2006: Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
In March 2006, Destiny's Child accepted a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
September 4, 2006: Release of B'Day Album
On September 4, 2006, Beyoncé's second solo album B'Day was released in the U.S. to coincide with her twenty-fifth birthday.
2006: Acting Roles in The Pink Panther and Dreamgirls
In 2006, Beyoncé had acting roles in the comedy film The Pink Panther and the film Dreamgirls, the latter receiving acclaim.
2006: Introduction of Suga Mama
In 2006, Beyoncé introduced her all-female tour band Suga Mama at the BET awards, which included bassists, drummers, guitarists, horn players, keyboardists and percussionists. Her background singers, The Mamas, consisting of Montina Cooper-Donnell, Crystal Collins and Tiffany Moniqué Riddick also made their debut appearance.
2006: Fashion Rocks concert performance
In 2006, Beyoncé paid homage to Josephine Baker by performing "Déjà Vu" at the Fashion Rocks concert. She wore Baker's trademark mini-hula skirt embellished with fake bananas.
2006: World Music Awards Tribute
In 2006, Beyoncé presented Michael Jackson with a tribute award at the World Music Awards, stating that she would have never performed if it wasn't for Michael Jackson.
2006: Dreamgirls: Music from the Motion Picture Nomination
In 2006, Beyoncé received a nomination for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album for Motion Pictures, Television or Other Visual Media for her appearance on Dreamgirls: Music from the Motion Picture.
2006: Release of B'Day Album
In 2006, Beyoncé's album B'Day was released, continuing her commercial success.
2006: Awards for Dreamgirls
In 2006, Following her role in Dreamgirls, Beyoncé won two awards at the Broadcast Film Critics Association Awards; Best Song for "Listen" and Best Original Soundtrack for Dreamgirls: Music from the Motion Picture.
2006: PETA Criticism
In 2006, the animal rights organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), criticized Beyoncé for wearing and using fur in her clothing line House of Deréon.
2006: Bootylicious Definition
In 2006, the term "bootylicious," often used to describe Beyoncé due to her curves and the term's catchiness, was added to the Oxford English Dictionary. The term was popularized by the single of the same name by her group Destiny's Child.
April 2007: The Beyoncé Experience Tour
In April 2007, Beyoncé embarked on The Beyoncé Experience, her first worldwide concert tour.
June 2007: Beyoncé's Earnings
In June 2007 to June 2008, Beyoncé earned $80 million from her music, tour, films, and clothing line, making her the world's best-paid music personality at the time.
2007: Grammy Awards for B'Day
At the 49th Annual Grammy Awards in 2007, B'Day was nominated for five Grammy Awards, including Best Contemporary R&B Album, which it won.
2007: Founding of Knowles-Temenos Place Apartments
In 2007, Beyoncé founded the Knowles-Temenos Place Apartments, a housing complex offering living space for 43 displaced individuals.
2007: Promotion of Emporio Armani's Diamonds fragrance
In 2007, Beyoncé promoted Emporio Armani's Diamonds fragrance.
2007: Awards and Recognition
In 2007, Beyoncé received the International Artist of Excellence award by the American Music Awards and the Honorary Otto at the Bravo Otto.
2007: Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue Cover
In 2007, Beyoncé was featured on the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, becoming the second African American woman after Tyra Banks, and People magazine recognized Beyoncé as the best-dressed celebrity.
2007: Race and Image Criticism
In 2007, Emmett Price, a professor of music at Northeastern University, suggested that race plays a role in many criticisms of Beyoncé's image, as white celebrities who dress similarly do not attract as many comments.
2007: The Beyoncé Experience tour
In 2007, the Suga Mama band supported Beyoncé in live performances, including her 2007 concert tour, The Beyoncé Experience.
January 2008: Launch of Beyoncé Fashion Diva mobile game
In January 2008, Starwave Mobile launched Beyoncé Fashion Diva, a "high-style" mobile game featuring the House of Deréon collection.
April 4, 2008: Marriage to Jay-Z
On April 4, 2008, Beyoncé and Jay-Z married without publicity.
June 2008: Beyoncé's Earnings
From June 2007 to June 2008, Beyoncé earned $80 million, which included income from her music, tours, films, and clothing line. This made her the world's highest-paid music personality at the time.
November 2008: Release of I Am... Sasha Fierce
In November 2008, Beyoncé released "I Am... Sasha Fierce," an album that formally introduced her alter ego, Sasha Fierce. Despite mixed critical reception, the album debuted atop the Billboard 200, selling 482,000 copies in its first week and marking Beyoncé's third consecutive number-one album in the U.S.
2008: Starring in Cadillac Records
In 2008, Beyoncé expanded her acting career, starring as blues singer Etta James in the musical biopic Cadillac Records. She also donated her entire salary from the film to Phoenix House, a rehabilitation center organization. In 2008, she also starred in Obsessed.
2008: Introduction of Sasha Fierce
In 2008, Beyoncé introduced Sasha Fierce with the release of her album, I Am... Sasha Fierce, explaining it was an alter ego created to keep her stage persona separate from who she really is.
2008: Release of I Am... Sasha Fierce Album
In 2008, Beyoncé released the album I Am... Sasha Fierce, which featured hit singles including "If I Were a Boy", "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on it)", and "Halo".
2008: Parkwood Entertainment as Production Unit
In 2008, Parkwood Entertainment began as a production unit for videos and films.
2008: Whitening Accusation
In 2008, the French personal care company L'Oréal was accused of whitening Beyoncé's skin in Feria hair color advertisements; L'Oréal denied the accusation.
March 2009: I Am... Tour
In March 2009, Beyoncé embarked on the 'I Am... Tour', her second headlining worldwide concert tour. The tour consisted of 108 shows and grossed $119.5 million.
July 2009: Launch of Sasha Fierce for Deréon apparel label
In July 2009, Beyoncé and her mother launched a new junior apparel label, Sasha Fierce for Deréon, for back-to-school selling. The collection included sportswear, outerwear, handbags, footwear, eyewear, lingerie and jewelry.
2009: Video of the Year Win
In 2009, "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" won Video of the Year at the MTV Video Music Awards.
2009: Highest-Earning Power Couple
In 2009, Beyoncé and Jay-Z made it into the Guinness World Records as the "highest-earning power couple" for collectively earning $122 million.
2009: Inauguration performances
In 2009, Beyoncé performed "America the Beautiful" at President Barack Obama's 2009 presidential inauguration, as well as "At Last" during the first inaugural dance at the Neighborhood Ball two days later.
2009: Starring in Obsessed
In 2009, Beyoncé starred in the film Obsessed.
2009: Celebrity 100 List Ranking
In 2009, Beyoncé was placed fourth on Forbes' Celebrity 100 list.
2009: Billboard's Top Artist of the Decade
In 2009, Billboard named Beyoncé the Top Female Artist and Top Radio Songs Artist of the Decade.
2009: Donation of salary from Cadillac Records to Phoenix House
In 2009, after starring in Cadillac Records, Beyoncé donated her full $4 million salary from the film to Phoenix House, a non-profit drug and alcohol rehabilitation organization. Beyoncé and her mother subsequently established the Beyoncé Cosmetology Center, which offers a seven-month cosmetology training course helping Phoenix House's clients gain career skills during their recovery.
2009: I Am... Tour
In 2009, the Suga Mama band supported Beyoncé in live performances, including her 2009-2010 concert tour, I Am... Tour.
January 2010: Hiatus from music career
In January 2010, Beyoncé announced a hiatus from her music career, heeding her mother's advice to be inspired again. During the break, she and her father parted ways as business partners.
January 2010: Participation in Hope for Haiti Now telethon
In January 2010, Beyoncé participated in the Hope for Haiti Now: A Global Benefit for Earthquake Relief telethon, donated a large sum to the organization, and was named the official face of the limited edition Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) "Fashion For Haiti" T-shirt.
February 2010: Beyoncé retires Sasha Fierce
In February 2010, Beyoncé announced in an interview with Allure magazine that she was comfortable enough with herself to no longer need Sasha Fierce as an alter ego.
May 2010: Launch of Deréon by Beyoncé at C&A stores in Brazil
In May 2010, Beyoncé teamed up with clothing store C&A to launch Deréon by Beyoncé at their stores in Brazil. The collection included tailored blazers, little black dresses, embroidered tops and shirts and bandage dresses.
September 2010: Runway modelling debut
In September 2010, Beyoncé made her runway modelling debut at Tom Ford's Spring/Summer 2011 fashion show.
2010: Miscarriage
Around 2010, Beyoncé miscarried, which she described as "the saddest thing" she had ever endured. She returned to the studio and wrote music to cope with the loss.
2010: Parkwood Entertainment Founding
In 2010, Beyoncé founded her own entertainment company Parkwood Entertainment, which formed as an imprint based from Columbia Records.
2010: Guest vocals on Telephone
In 2010, Beyoncé provided guest vocals on Lady Gaga's single "Telephone." The song topped the U.S. Pop Songs chart, becoming the sixth number-one for both Beyoncé and Gaga, tying them with Mariah Carey for most number-ones since the Nielsen Top 40 airplay chart launched in 1992.
2010: Award of Honor
In 2010, Beyoncé received the Award of Honor for Artist of the Decade at the NRJ Music Award.
2010: Grammy Award Wins
In 2010, Beyoncé set the record for the most Grammy awards won by a female artist in one night when she won six awards, and "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" won Song of the Year.
2010: Top R&B/Hip-Hop Artists Ranking
In 2010, Billboard named Beyoncé in their Top 50 R&B/Hip-Hop Artists of the Past 25 Years list at number 15.
2010: "Most Powerful Women in the World" List Ranking
In 2010, Forbes placed Beyoncé ninth on the "Most Powerful Women in the World" list.
2010: Lady Gaga Sets VMA Record
In 2010, Lady Gaga set the record for the most VMAs won in one night for a female artist, which was later tied by Beyoncé in 2016.
2010: I Am... Tour continued
In 2010, the Suga Mama band supported Beyoncé in live performances, including her 2009-2010 concert tour, I Am... Tour.
February 2011: Launch of Heat Rush fragrance
In February 2011, Beyoncé launched her second fragrance, Heat Rush.
April 2011: Pregnancy in Paris
In April 2011, Beyoncé and Jay-Z traveled to Paris to shoot the album cover for 4, where she unexpectedly became pregnant.
April 2011: Collaboration with Michelle Obama and the National Association of Broadcasters Education Foundation
In April 2011, Beyoncé joined forces with Michelle Obama and the National Association of Broadcasters Education Foundation to help boost the latter's campaign against child obesity by reworking her single "Get Me Bodied".
May 2011: Beyoncé listed among top songwriters by Billboard
In May 2011, Billboard magazine listed Beyoncé at number 17 on their list of the Top 20 Hot 100 Songwriters for having co-written eight singles that hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
June 26, 2011: Headlining Glastonbury Festival
On June 26, 2011, Beyoncé became the first solo female artist in over twenty years to headline the main Pyramid stage at the Glastonbury Festival.
August 1, 2011: Album 4 Certified Platinum
On August 1, 2011, Beyoncé's album 4 was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), having shipped 1 million copies to retail stores.
August 29, 2011: Pregnancy announcement at MTV Video Music Awards
On August 29, 2011, Beyoncé performed "Love On Top" at the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards and ended the performance by revealing she was pregnant. Her announcement helped that year's MTV Video Music Awards become the most-watched broadcast in MTV history, pulling in 12.4 million viewers.
September 2011: Launch of Pulse fragrance
In September 2011, Beyoncé launched her third fragrance, Pulse.
2011: Billboard Millennium Award
At the 2011 Billboard Music Awards, Beyoncé received the inaugural Billboard Millennium Award.
2011: Average Earnings
From 2009 to 2011, Beyoncé earned an average of $70 million per year.
2011: Release of 4 Album
In 2011, Beyoncé's commercial success continued with the release of her album 4, which featured hit singles like "Run the World (Girls)" and "Love On Top".
2011: Tom Ford's Spring/Summer Fashion Show
In September 2010, Beyoncé made her runway modelling debut at Tom Ford's Spring/Summer 2011 fashion show.
January 7, 2012: Birth of Blue Ivy
On January 7, 2012, Beyoncé gave birth to a daughter, Blue Ivy, at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.
January 2012: Naming of Scaptia beyonceae
In January 2012, research scientist Bryan Lessard named Scaptia beyonceae, a species of horse-fly found in Northern Queensland, Australia, after Beyoncé due to the fly's unique golden hairs on its abdomen.
May 2012: Sasha Fierce returns
In May 2012, Beyoncé announced that she would bring back Sasha Fierce for her Revel Presents: Beyoncé Live shows later that month.
June 2012: Performances at Revel Atlantic City
In June 2012, Beyoncé performed for four nights at Revel Atlantic City's Ovation Hall to celebrate the resort's opening. These were her first performances since giving birth to her daughter.
December 2012: "Demand A Plan" video campaign
In December 2012, Beyoncé along with a variety of other celebrities teamed up and produced a video campaign for "Demand A Plan", a bipartisan effort by a group of 950 U.S. mayors and others designed to influence the federal government into rethinking its gun control laws, following the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.
2012: Adele Equalized Grammy Record
In 2012, Adele equaled the record previously set by Beyoncé in 2010 for the most Grammy awards won by a female artist in one night.
2012: Highest-Paid Celebrity Couple
In 2012, Beyoncé and Jay-Z were ranked as the number one "World's Highest-Paid Celebrity Couples", with collective earnings of $78 million.
2012: Ambassador for World Humanitarian Day
In 2012, Beyoncé became an ambassador for the World Humanitarian Day campaign, donating her song "I Was Here" and its music video, shot in the UN, to the campaign.
2012: Beyoncé signs $50 million endorsement deal with Pepsi
In 2012, Beyoncé signed a $50 million deal to endorse Pepsi. The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPINET) asked her to reconsider due to the product's unhealthiness.
2012: Hottest Female Singer of All Time
In 2012, Beyoncé was named the "Hottest Female Singer of All Time" by Complex.
2012: Celebrity 100 List Ranking
In 2012, Forbes placed Beyoncé at number 16 on the Celebrity 100 list, earning $40 million for her album 4, clothing line, and endorsement deals.
2012: Greatest Women in Music Ranking
In 2012, VH1 ranked Beyoncé third on their list of the "100 Greatest Women in Music", behind Mariah Carey and Madonna.
January 2013: Second Inauguration Performance
In January 2013, Beyoncé performed the American national anthem "The Star-Spangled Banner" at President Barack Obama's second inauguration.
January 2013: Performance at President Obama's second inauguration
In January 2013, Beyoncé performed the American national anthem singing along with a pre-recorded track at President Obama's second inauguration in Washington, D.C.
January 2013: "100 Sexiest Women of the 21st Century"
In January 2013, GQ placed Beyoncé on its cover, featuring her atop its "100 Sexiest Women of the 21st Century" list.
March 26, 2013: Endorsement of same-sex marriage
On March 26, 2013, Beyoncé publicly endorsed same-sex marriage after the Supreme Court debate on California's Proposition 8.
April 2013: Sampling of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's speech
In April 2013, Beyoncé sampled "We should all be feminists", a speech delivered by Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie at a TEDx talk, in her song "Flawless".
April 2013: Beyoncé's Pepsi campaign is the most talked about endorsement
In April 2013, NetBase found that Beyoncé's Pepsi campaign was the most talked about endorsement, with a 70 percent positive audience response to the commercial and print ads.
June 1, 2013: Chime for Change concert in London
On June 1, 2013, a concert for the Gucci "Chime for Change" campaign took place in London, aiming to spread female empowerment. Beyoncé also took part in "Miss a Meal", a food-donation campaign, and supported Goodwill Industries through online charity auctions.
June 2013: Earnings Period
From June 2013 to June 2014, Beyoncé earned an estimated $115 million, leading to her ranking at number one on the Forbes Celebrity 100 list in June 2014.
June 2013: Settlement regarding the cancelled Starpower: Beyoncé video game
In June 2013, Beyoncé's lawyers settled out of court regarding the cancelled video game Starpower: Beyoncé. The cancellation had led to staff layoffs and financial losses for GateFive, but Beyoncé's team stated it was cancelled because GateFive lost its financial backers.
December 13, 2013: Release of self-titled album Beyoncé
On December 13, 2013, Beyoncé unexpectedly released her eponymous fifth studio album on the iTunes Store without any prior announcement or promotion. The album debuted atop the Billboard 200 chart, giving Beyoncé her fifth consecutive number-one album in the U.S.
2013: Top-selling album of the year
According to the IFPI, Beyoncé's self-titled album sold 2.3 million units worldwide, becoming the tenth best-selling album of 2013.
2013: Attendance at Trayvon Martin rally
In 2013, Beyoncé and Jay-Z attended a rally in response to the acquittal of George Zimmerman for the killing of Trayvon Martin.
2013: Release of BEYONCÉ album
In 2013, Beyoncé formed Parkwood Entertainment and shifted her career by creating the concept album Beyoncé, exploring personal and political themes.
2013: H&M Natural Pictures Campaign
In 2013, Beyoncé reportedly pressured H&M to use "only natural pictures" instead of retouching images in a campaign.
2013: Release of The Mrs. Carter Show Limited Edition version of Heat
In 2013, The Mrs. Carter Show Limited Edition version of Heat was released.
2013: The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour
In 2013, the Suga Mama band supported Beyoncé in live performances, including her 2013-2014 concert tour, The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour.
2013: Album Distribution
Parkwood Entertainment distributed Beyoncé's self-titled fifth studio album in 2013.
2013: Relaxed Public Persona
Since 2013, Beyoncé and Jay-Z have appeared to become more relaxed about their private relationship.
March 2014: End of The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour
The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour, which began in April 2013, concluded in March 2014 after 132 dates. It was Beyoncé's most successful tour and one of the most successful tours of all time.
April 2014: Announcement of On the Run Tour
In April 2014, Beyoncé and Jay-Z officially announced their On the Run Tour, which served as the couple's first co-headlining stadium tour together.
April 2014: Combined Record Sales
As of April 2014, Beyoncé and Jay-Z had sold a combined 300 million records together.
June 2014: Number One on Forbes Celebrity 100
In June 2014, Beyoncé ranked at number one on the Forbes Celebrity 100 list, earning an estimated $115 million from June 2013 to June 2014. This was the first time she topped the list and her highest yearly earnings to date.
August 24, 2014: Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award
On August 24, 2014, Beyoncé received the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards. She also won three competitive awards: Best Video with a Social Message and Best Cinematography for "Pretty Hurts", as well as best collaboration for "Drunk in Love".
October 2014: Deal to launch activewear line with Topshop
In October 2014, Beyoncé signed a deal with Topshop to launch an activewear line of clothing.
November 2014: Sales of album Beyoncé
As of November 2014, Beyoncé's self-titled album has sold over 5 million copies worldwide.
2014: Second-Most Award-Winning Artist
According to Fuse in 2014, Beyoncé is the second-most award-winning artist of all time, after Michael Jackson.
2014: Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award
In 2014, Beyoncé received the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at the MTV Video Music Awards and was honored as Honorary Mother of the Year at the Australian Mother of the Year Award in Barnardo's Australia for her Humanitarian Effort in the region.
2014: The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour continued
In 2014, the Suga Mama band supported Beyoncé in live performances, including her 2013-2014 concert tour, The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour.
February 2015: Grammy Awards
At the 57th Annual Grammy Awards in February 2015, Beyoncé won three awards: Best R&B Performance and Best R&B Song for "Drunk in Love", and Best Surround Sound Album for Beyoncé.
March 2015: Beyoncé becomes co-owner of Tidal
In March 2015, Beyoncé became a co-owner of the music streaming service Tidal, which specializes in lossless audio and high definition music videos. This was part of an effort by artists to adapt to the increased demand for streaming within the music industry.
March 2015: Album streams
As of March 2015, Beyoncé's self-titled album has generated over 1 billion streams.
May 2015: Clinton Fundraiser
In May 2015, The Washington Post reported that Beyoncé attended a major celebrity fundraiser for 2016 presidential nominee Hillary Clinton.
February 6, 2016: Release of Formation
On February 6, 2016, Beyoncé released "Formation" and performed it live for the first time during the NFL Super Bowl 50 halftime show.
April 2016: Release of Lemonade
In April 2016, Beyoncé released a teaser clip for a project called Lemonade. A one-hour film which aired on HBO on April 23, a corresponding album with the same title was released on the same day exclusively on Tidal. Lemonade debuted at number one on the U.S. Billboard 200, making Beyoncé the first act in Billboard history to have their first six studio albums debut atop the chart
April 2016: Launch of Ivy Park activewear line
In April 2016, the activewear line Ivy Park, a 50–50 venture with Topshop, was launched. Beyoncé later bought out Topshop's share and now owns the brand herself.
June 2016: Donation to support victims of the Flint water crisis
In June 2016, Beyoncé donated over $82,000 to the United Way of Genesee County to support victims of the Flint water crisis. Beyoncé additionally donated money to support 14 students in Michigan with their college expenses.
August 2016: Donations to civil rights groups and the Usain Bolt Foundation
In August 2016, Beyoncé and Jay-Z donated $1.5 million to civil rights groups including Black Lives Matter, Hands Up United and Dream Defenders. After Hurricane Matthew, Beyoncé and Jay-Z donated $15 million to the Usain Bolt Foundation to support its efforts in rebuilding homes in Haiti.
2016: Donation for maintenance of Knowles-Temenos Place Apartments
As of 2016, Beyoncé had donated $7 million for the maintenance of the Knowles-Temenos Place Apartments.
2016: Speculations about Jay-Z's Infidelity
Following the release of Lemonade in 2016, which included the single "Sorry", speculations arose about Jay-Z's alleged infidelity with a mistress referred to as "Becky".
2016: Video of the Year Win and Most VMAs Won in One Night
In 2016, "Formation" won Video of the Year at the MTV Video Music Awards. Beyoncé also tied the record set by Lady Gaga in 2010 for the most VMAs won in one night for a female artist with eight.
2016: Clinton Concert Performance
In 2016, Beyoncé headlined for Hillary Clinton in a concert held the weekend before Election Day. Beyoncé and her entourage of backup dancers wore pantsuits and "I'm with her" tee shirts at this performance.
2016: Celebrity 100 List Ranking and Highest-Paid Celebrity Couple
In 2016, Beyoncé ranked at number 34 on the Forbes Celebrity 100 list with earnings of $54 million. She and Jay-Z also topped the highest-paid celebrity couple list, with combined earnings of $107.5 million.
2016: Fashion Icon Award
In 2016, Beyoncé received the Council of Fashion Designers of America Fashion Icon Award.
2016: Release of LEMONADE album
In 2016, Beyoncé released the album Lemonade, which explored personal and political themes and was the best-selling album worldwide that year.
2016: Protest against North Carolina's Public Facilities Privacy & Security Act
In 2016, Beyoncé spoke against North Carolina's Public Facilities Privacy & Security Act, a bill that discriminated against the LGBT community in public places, in a statement during her concert in Raleigh as part of the Formation World Tour.
2016: Woman's Hour Power List
In 2016, Beyoncé was named on the BBC Radio 4 Woman's Hour Power List as one of seven women judged to have had the biggest impact on women's lives over the past 70 years.
2016: Critical acclaim for Lemonade
In 2016, Lemonade became the most critically acclaimed work of Beyoncé's career and was included among the best albums of the year by several music publications. The album's visuals were nominated in 11 categories at the 2016 MTV Video Music Awards, winning 8 awards, including Video of the Year for "Formation".
2016: Album Distribution
In 2016, Parkwood Entertainment distributed Beyoncé's album, Lemonade.
2016: The Formation World Tour
In 2016, the Suga Mama band supported Beyoncé in live performances, including her 2016 concert tour, The Formation World Tour.
2016: Highest-Paid Musician
In July 2017, Billboard announced that Beyoncé was the highest-paid musician of 2016, with an estimated total of $62.1 million.
2016: Response to controversy surrounding "Formation"
In a 2016 interview with Elle, Beyoncé responded to the controversy surrounding her song "Formation" which was perceived to be critical of the police. She clarified, "I am against police brutality and injustice".
January 2017: Announcement to headline Coachella
In January 2017, Beyoncé was announced as a headliner for the Coachella Music and Arts Festival.
February 1, 2017: Pregnancy announcement
On February 1, 2017, Beyoncé revealed on her Instagram account that she was expecting twins. Her announcement gained over 6.3 million likes within eight hours, breaking the world record for the most liked image on the website at the time.
February 2017: Grammy Awards
At the 59th Grammy Awards in February 2017, Lemonade led the nominations with nine, including Album, Record, and Song of the Year for Lemonade and "Formation" respectively, ultimately winning two, Best Urban Contemporary Album for Lemonade and Best Music Video for "Formation".
February 2017: Support for transgender students
In February 2017, Beyoncé spoke out against the withdrawal of protections for transgender students in public schools by Donald Trump's presidential administration. Posting a link to the 100 Days of Kindness campaign on her Facebook page, Beyoncé voiced her support for transgender youth.
February 23, 2017: Beyoncé withdraws from Coachella 2017
On February 23, 2017, it was announced that Beyoncé would no longer be able to perform at the 2017 Coachella festival due to doctor's concerns regarding her pregnancy. She was rescheduled to headline the 2018 festival instead.
June 13, 2017: Birth of twins
On June 13, 2017, Beyoncé gave birth to twins, a daughter named Rumi and a son named Sir, at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center in California via caesarean section.
July 13, 2017: First image of twins
On July 13, 2017, Beyoncé uploaded the first image of herself and the twins onto her Instagram account, confirming their birth date as June 13, 2017.
July 2017: Highest-Paid Musician of 2016
In July 2017, Billboard announced that Beyoncé was the highest-paid musician of 2016, with an estimated total of $62.1 million.
August 2017: Beyoncé Launches BeyGOOD Houston for Hurricane Harvey Relief
In August 2017, during Hurricane Harvey, Beyoncé launched BeyGOOD Houston to support those affected. The organization provided necessities and funded revitalization projects.
September 2017: Collaboration with J Balvin and Willy William
In September 2017, Beyoncé collaborated with J Balvin and Willy William to release a remix of the song "Mi Gente". Beyoncé donated all proceeds from the song to hurricane charities for those affected by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.
December 1, 2017: Release of Perfect Duet
On December 1, 2017, "Perfect Duet" featuring Beyoncé was released. The song reached number-one in the United States, becoming Beyoncé's sixth song of her solo career to do so.
January 4, 2018: Release of "Family Feud" music video
On January 4, 2018, the music video for "Family Feud", a collaboration between Beyoncé and Jay-Z from the album 4:44, was released. The video was directed by Ava DuVernay.
February 5, 2018: Album Streams on Spotify
On February 5, 2018, the album 4 reached one billion Spotify streams, making Beyoncé the first female artist to have three of their albums surpass one billion streams on the platform.
April 14, 2018: Beyoncé headlines Coachella Music Festival
On April 14, 2018, Beyoncé headlined the first weekend of the Coachella Music Festival. Her performance was widely praised and described as historic, becoming the most-tweeted-about performance of the weekend and the most-watched live Coachella performance and live performance on YouTube of all time.
June 6, 2018: Beyoncé and Jay-Z kick off On the Run II Tour
On June 6, 2018, Beyoncé and Jay-Z started their On the Run II Tour in Cardiff, United Kingdom.
September 2018: Vogue Cover
Beyoncé wrote of her pregnancy and its aftermath in the September 2018 issue of Vogue, in which she had full control of the cover, shot at Hammerwood Park by photographer Tyler Mitchell.
December 2, 2018: Beyoncé headlines Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100
On December 2, 2018, Beyoncé and Jay-Z headlined the Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Beyoncé's performance and outfits, which paid tribute to Africa's diversity, were highly praised.
2018: Net Worth and Earnings
As of 2018, Forbes calculated Beyoncé's net worth to be $355 million, and in June of the same year, ranked her as the 35th-highest-earning celebrity, with annual earnings of $60 million.
2018: Beyoncé's historic Coachella performances
In 2018, Beyoncé delivered her historic performances at Coachella, which became the focus of her later documentary film, Homecoming: A Film by Beyoncé.
2018: Endorsement of Beto O'Rourke
In 2018, Beyoncé endorsed the bid of Beto O'Rourke during the 2018 United States Senate election in Texas.
2018: Recognition as Influential Figure
In 2018, James Clear drew a parallel between Beyoncé's success and the dramatic transformations in modern society in his book Atomic Habits. Rolling Stone included her on its Millennial 100 list.
2018: Album Distribution
In 2018, Parkwood Entertainment distributed The Carters' album, Everything is Love.
February 2019: Chloe x Halle Performance at Super Bowl LIII
In February 2019, Chloe x Halle, artists signed to Beyoncé's Parkwood Entertainment, performed at Super Bowl LIII.
April 17, 2019: Netflix releases Homecoming: A Film by Beyoncé
On April 17, 2019, Netflix released Homecoming: A Film by Beyoncé, a documentary and concert film focusing on her 2018 Coachella performances, alongside the surprise live album Homecoming: The Live Album.
July 11, 2019: Release of The Lion King soundtrack featuring Beyoncé
On July 11, 2019, the soundtrack for The Lion King was released, featuring Beyoncé on a remake of "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" with Donald Glover, Billy Eichner, and Seth Rogen.
July 2019: Beyoncé stars in The Lion King remake
In July 2019, Beyoncé voiced the character of Nala in the remake of The Lion King. She also produced and curated a companion album, The Lion King: The Gift, and released the original song "Spirit" from the film.
2019: Inspiration for Peloton partnership
Beyoncé's 2019 Homecoming film and live album inspired the partnership with Peloton.
2019: NAACP Image Award
In 2019, Beyoncé received the Soul Train Music Award for Sammy Davis Jr. – Entertainer of the Year and NAACP Image Award for Entertainer of the Year.
2019: Voice acting as Nala in The Lion King
In 2019, Beyoncé voiced Nala in The Lion King.
January 2020: Collection previewed in Elle magazine
In January 2020, the Adidas collaboration collection was previewed on the upcoming Elle January 2020 issue, where Beyoncé was seen wearing several garments, accessories, and footwear from the first collection.
April 2020: Beyoncé Donates to COVID-19 Relief Efforts
In April 2020, Beyoncé donated $6 million to mental health organizations and teamed up with local groups to provide resources to communities of color during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also released a remix of Megan Thee Stallion's "Savage", with proceeds benefiting Bread of Life Houston's COVID-19 relief efforts.
April 2020: Beyoncé featured on "Savage" remix
In April 2020, Beyoncé was featured on the remix of Megan Thee Stallion's song "Savage," which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
May 2020: Beyoncé Provides Free COVID-19 Tests in Houston
In May 2020, Beyoncé provided 1,000 free COVID-19 tests in Houston as part of her and her mother's #IDidMyPart initiative. She also provided gloves, masks, meals, vitamins, vouchers, and household items.
June 19, 2020: Beyoncé releases "Black Parade"
On June 19, 2020, Beyoncé released the nonprofit charity single "Black Parade," followed by an a cappella version on Tidal.
July 2020: Beyoncé Establishes Black-Owned Small Business Impact Fund
In July 2020, Beyoncé established the Black-Owned Small Business Impact Fund in partnership with the NAACP, offering $10,000 grants. All proceeds from her single "Black Parade" were donated to the fund.
July 31, 2020: Premiere of Black Is King on Disney+
On July 31, 2020, Black Is King, a visual album based on The Lion King: The Gift, premiered on Disney+. The film was written, directed, and executively produced by Beyoncé.
September 2020: Beyoncé Donates Additional $1 Million to Black-Owned Small Business Impact Fund
In September 2020, Beyoncé donated an additional $1 million to the Black-Owned Small Business Impact Fund.
November 2020: Partnership with Peloton
In November 2020, Beyoncé formed a multi-year partnership with Peloton to celebrate homecoming season in historically black colleges and universities, providing themed workout experiences inspired by her 2019 Homecoming film and live album. As part of the partnership, Beyoncé and Peloton are donating free memberships to all students at 10 HBCUs.
December 2020: Beyoncé Donates to Alleviate Housing Crisis in the U.S.
In December 2020, Beyoncé donated $500,000 to help alleviate the housing crisis in the U.S., giving 100 $5,000 grants to individuals and families facing foreclosures and evictions.
2020: Starring in Black Is King
In 2020, Beyoncé starred in the film Black Is King.
2020: BET Humanitarian Award
In 2020, Beyoncé was awarded the BET Humanitarian Award.
2020: Most Powerful Woman in Music
In 2020, Beyoncé was named the Most Powerful Woman in Music on the BBC Radio 4 Woman's Hour Power List. In the same year, Billboard named her with Destiny's Child the third Greatest Music Video artists of all time.
2020: Use of "boy, bye" in Election Campaign
In 2020, Beyoncé's phrase "boy, bye" was used as part of the Democratic National Committee's campaign for the election.
December 31, 2020: Black-Owned Small Business Impact Fund Update
As of December 31, 2020, Beyoncé's Black-Owned Small Business Impact Fund had given 715 grants to black-owned small businesses, amounting to $7.15 million donated.
June 2021: Awards and Recognition
In June 2021, Beyoncé won the award of "top touring artist" of the decade (2010s) at the Pollstar Awards. In that same month, Beyoncé was inducted into the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame as a member of the inaugural class.
2021: Partnership with Tiffany & Co. for 'About Love' campaign
In 2021, Beyoncé and Jay-Z partnered with Tiffany & Co. for the company's "About Love" campaign. Beyoncé became the fourth woman, and first Black woman, to wear the 128.54-carat Tiffany Yellow Diamond. The campaign faced backlash due to the diamond's origins.
2021: Beyoncé writes "Be Alive" for King Richard
In 2021, Beyoncé wrote and recorded the song "Be Alive" for the film King Richard, receiving her first Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song.
March 27, 2022: Beyoncé performs "Be Alive" at the Academy Awards
On March 27, 2022, Beyoncé performed "Be Alive" at the 94th Academy Awards, staged on the Compton tennis courts where Venus and Serena Williams practiced.
June 9, 2022: Beyoncé removes profile pictures on social media
On June 9, 2022, Beyoncé removed her profile pictures from social media, sparking speculation about new music releases.
June 15, 2022: Announcement of Renaissance album
On June 15, 2022, Beyoncé officially announced her seventh studio album, titled Renaissance.
June 20, 2022: Release of "Break My Soul"
On June 20, 2022, Beyoncé released "Break My Soul," the lead single from her upcoming album Renaissance.
2022: Nominations for "Be Alive"
In 2022, "Be Alive" was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song, the Critics' Choice Movie Award for Best Song, and the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song.
2022: Release of RENAISSANCE album
In 2022, Beyoncé released the queer-inspired dance album Renaissance, which highlighted the contributions of Black pioneers to American musical and cultural history.
January 21, 2023: Beyoncé performs private show in Dubai
On January 21, 2023, Beyoncé performed in Dubai at a private show, her first full concert in over four years, for which she was reportedly paid $24 million. The performance drew criticism due to the United Arab Emirates' laws against homosexuality.
February 2023: Report of financial struggles for Ivy Park line
In February 2023, The Wall Street Journal reported that the Ivy Park line was struggling financially, with revenue falling by more than 50% to $40 million.
March 2023: Collaboration on Renaissance Couture collection with Balmain
In March 2023, Olivier Rousteing announced his collaboration with Beyoncé on a couture collection with sixteen looks corresponding to the sixteen tracks on her album Renaissance. This "Renaissance Couture" collection marked the first time that a Black woman oversaw the development of a collection from a Parisian couture house.
March 2023: End of Adidas partnership announced
In March 2023, it was announced that Beyoncé and Adidas reached a mutual decision to end their partnership.
November 30, 2023: Release of Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé
On November 30, 2023, Beyoncé released the documentary concert film Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé, which chronicles the development and execution of her Renaissance World Tour and features the new song "My House."
December 2023: Estimated Net Worth
By December 2023, Forbes estimated Beyoncé's net worth to be $800 million.
2023: House Purchase in Malibu
In 2023, Beyoncé and Jay-Z bought a house in Malibu, California, designed by the architect Tadao Ando, for $200 million, establishing a record for the most expensive residence sold in the state of California.
February 11, 2024: Announcement of Cowboy Carter and release of new songs
On February 11, 2024, following a Super Bowl commercial with Verizon, Beyoncé announced Cowboy Carter, the second installment of her trilogy project, and released the songs "Texas Hold 'Em" and "16 Carriages".
February 2024: Launch of Cécred hair care line and BeyGood grant
In February 2024, Beyoncé launched Cécred, a hair care product line, and established an annual grant in collaboration with BeyGood to provide financial support to cosmetology students and hair stylists. A $500,000 yearly fund was allocated for scholarships and salon business grants across five cities.
February 2024: Launch of hair care brand Cécred
In February 2024, Beyoncé launched her hair care brand, Cécred.
March 12, 2024: Announcement of Cowboy Carter album title
On March 12, 2024, Beyoncé announced the title of her upcoming album as Cowboy Carter.
July 2024: Authorization for "Freedom" use
In July 2024, Beyoncé gave Vice President Kamala Harris permission to use Lemonade promotional single "Freedom" as the official song for her 2024 presidential campaign.
July 2024: Beyoncé featured in NBC Olympics commercials
In July 2024, NBC released two promotional commercials featuring Beyoncé set to her Cowboy Carter songs "Ya Ya" and "Just For Fun" for their coverage of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France.
September 2024: Partnership with Levi Strauss & Co.
In September 2024, Beyoncé partnered with Levi Strauss & Co. to remake a classic '80s 'Launderette' campaign, aiming to enhance sales in the women's clothing segment.
October 2024: Endorsement of Kamala Harris
In October 2024, Beyoncé, alongside her mother Tina and Kelly Rowland endorsed Kamala Harris for president at a campaign rally in her hometown of Houston.
October 2024: Levi's launches global campaign with Beyoncé
In October 2024, Levi's launched a four-part global campaign with Beyoncé titled "Reiimagine" that will stretch into 2025 and focus on women's history of the company, using Cowboy Carter track "Levii's Jeans".
December 2024: Release of Mufasa: The Lion King and NFL Halftime Performance
In December 2024, Beyoncé reprised her role as Nala for Mufasa: The Lion King, and headlined the NFL Christmas Gameday Halftime Show, performing songs from Cowboy Carter.
2024: Release of COWBOY CARTER album
In 2024, Beyoncé released the Americana epic album Cowboy Carter, further highlighting the contributions of Black pioneers to American musical and cultural history.
2024: Voice acting in Mufasa: The Lion King
In 2024, Beyoncé voiced a character in Mufasa: The Lion King.
February 1, 2025: Announcement of The Cowboy Carter Tour
On February 1, 2025, Beyoncé announced The Cowboy Carter Tour.
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