Beyoncé is changing the conversation about women's ability to dominate male-dominated industries.
Beyoncé Reveals How She's Tried Not to Be 'Pigeonholed' as a Woman in a Male-Dominated Industry: 'I Am Here to Change That Old Narrative'
Beyoncé is no stranger to changing the narrative.
The music legend, 43, has consistently challenged the status quo from the genres she tackles in her art to her brands and even the way she handles her personal life while being one of the most famous women in the world.
Beyoncé opened up about the obstacles women face in male-dominated industries.
However, her rise to the top hasn't been easy — especially as a female. "There’s a huge contrast between the business journeys of men and women. Men often have the luxury of being perceived as the strategists, the brains behind their ventures. They’re given the space to focus on the product, the team, the business plan," she explained in a recent interview.
"Women, on the other hand, especially those in the limelight, are frequently pigeonholed into being the face of the brand or the marketing tool. It’s important to me to continue to take the same approach I have taken with my music and apply my learnings to my businesses," Beyoncé pointed out. "I am here to change that old narrative. I’m here to focus on the quality. We took our time, and we did our research, and we have earned respect for our brand. I try to choose integrity over shortcuts."
Beyoncé said she's here to 'change the old narrative.'
The "Single Ladies" vocalist has leaned heavily into making sure any product she produces comes from the most authentic place possible. "I’ve learned that true success isn’t about leaning on a name; it’s about crafting something genuine, something that can hold its own. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being revolutionary," she added.
Despite having her hands in multiple ventures, Beyoncé, who has been married to fellow mogul and artist Jay-Z since 2008, would never want her attention to be completely taken away from her true passion. "I am a musician first. It has always been my priority. I didn’t get into anything that could take away from my artistry until I felt I was solidified as a master at my first love, music," the Grammy winner emphasized.
Beyoncé recently launched SirDavis whiskey brand.
"When I started my hair care brand, Cécred, I wanted it to be recognized for what it does for real people and their hair. When it launched, I made a conscious decision not to appear in the ads," she said. "The brand’s first impression needed to stand on its own merit, not be swayed by my influence. I’ve been using these products for years, so I know firsthand how magical they are."
The Texas native's latest venture, her whiskey brand SirDavis, has continued her legacy of challenging norms. "Whiskey isn’t just for old men in smoky bars; it’s for anyone who appreciates depth, complexity, and a bit of mystery," Beyoncé noted.
Beyoncé and Jay-Z have been married since 2008.
"The entire aging process is a labor of love, with attention put into every step, from the grains malting to the handcrafted barrels, and I appreciate all of it. Making whiskey is an art form. That’s what I love and respect about it," the Dreamgirls actress said.
GQ conducted the interview with Beyoncé.
