At the airport today I was suckered into buying the April 2009 issue of Ebony magazine. And by “suckered into buying” I really mean that I saw Beyonce on the cover of this magazine with the title “Beyoncevoled…An intimate portrait of the superstar you may not know.” Seriously, you wouldn’t buy it? Anyway, I loved the interview and for that reason I’m typing it all up. If you get a chance, try to check out the actual magazine because it’s a great read with some awesome pictures!
On performing for the Obama’s first dance: I was completely anxious and honored. Honestly I’ve watched everyday because I just want to relive the moment. It was one of the most spectacular moments of my life.I was very misty-eyed. What was interesting was the moment after. As I was breaking down [crying], they told me, ‘All right, get off the stage.’ And I was literally bawling. They were like, ‘Come on. Get yourself together.’
Who is the real Beyonce?: I’m a daughter, I’m a friend, I’m a wife, I’m a sister. All those things first. I’m an artist. I’m a businesswoman. I’m very sensitive and I’m also very strong. I’m so many things. I’m multifaceted. I’m a lover. I’m inspired by love. I make decisions from the heart.
On favoring projects that provide personal growth: If it doesn’t, I don’t do it. I turn down million-dollar offers all the time because it’s something that does not feel true for what I’m trying to say. I have to be passionate about it. Love inspires and growth inspires me. If it is not going to be iconic, something I can love 10 years from now, I’ve learned I should not waste my time with it.
On family: In every family, you have your disagreements, but ultimately we love eachother and we would do anything for eachother.
On Jay Z and business: Jay doesn’t get involved in my business and I don’t get involved in his. He was very successful before I met him and I was very successful before I met him. So we have so much respect for each other, and respect for each other artistically. We are very close friends, and I believe he is the ultimate artist and he has the same feelings for me.
On being a wife: I don’t know how to talk about it because I don’t like to talk about it. But I ahve a great example of a great wife, and that’s my mother. And I have great friends around me that have been married, so I’m lucky to have really good examples. And a great husband.
On being messy: I’m a little messy. Whenever I’m out in public, I have to be put together. When I get home, I rebel against it and I don’t want to take care of anything. I drop it. I’m relaxed. I don’t have any shoes on. No makeup. My shoes are left at the door. My purse is in the kitchen. I think that is the most difficult thing for him [Jay Z]. He’s very, very organized. I’m extremely organized when I’m working, and I work so much that when I get home I don’t want to think about anything.
On being a perfectionist: I think this is just who I am. My parents and the drive they have, it’s kind of worn off on me. When I was a kid, I’ve always been a bit of a perfectionist. That’s just my personality, because I love what I do.
On mistakes and safety (I love this one): Of course I’ve made mistakes. But I’d rather take chances than be safe. Simplicity is my word for 2009. But safety is my worst enemy.
Is it just me or do you love Beyonce a little bit more after reading that interview? Family values. Humility. Honesty. Fierce-ness. Awesomeness. Thanks Ebony!