Cannonball with Wesley Morris Beyoncé Isn’t Giving Up on America
Aug 7, 2025
Salamishah Tillet, a Times contributing critic and Beyoncé scholar who teaches a class dedicated to the artist, joins the conversation to explore the cultural significance of Beyoncé's performances. They discuss the communal joy found at concerts, where fans express their identities through fashion and music. The duo also examines the intertwining of motherhood and politics in Beyoncé's work, reflecting on her ability to inspire resilience amidst societal challenges, all while honoring her artistic evolution and impact on American identity.
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Curated Beyonce Concert Tours
- Salamishah Tillet and her sister curate Beyonce concert experiences based on the album themes and cities.
- They attended Cowboy Carter in Atlanta to capture the Southern vibe aligned with the album's concept.
Audience as Multifarious Citizenship
- Beyonce's concert audience acts as a model for an expansive, multifaceted citizenship.
- The show invites diverse participation, symbolizing inclusive American identity beyond simple worship.
Beyonce as Archivist and Citational Artist
- Beyonce's artistry is deeply citational, referencing black icons like Diana Ross and Josephine Baker.
- This citational style challenges ideas of strict authorship and highlights collaboration’s value.
