Yesterday afternoon, the indelible duo did it again, dropping their latest album, Everything is Love, exclusively on Tidal.
Beyonce teased their lead single, #Apeshit, on Instagram.
The visual ouevre d’art set at the Louvre after hours shows the pair flexing with their dancers in the historical museum’s hallowed halls, rapping, smizing, and dancing next to iconic masterpieces including the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, The Coronation of Napoleon, and more.
Though the refrain, “Have you ever seen the crowd goin’ apeshit?” refers to Jay Z and Beyonce’s collective popularity (and how the crowd responds with wild abandon during concerts), we know that the pair are extremely clever and may have implied a deeper meaning. In 18th century France and in many parts of Europe, people of African descent were once thought to be descendants of Apes. By way of this video, Beyonce and Jay Z challenge the historical derogatory stereotype, seemingly saying, “If we’re apes, let’s show you what Ape Shit is” Apeshit is looking regal and dripping in diamonds and designer labels like Versace, Gucci, and John Galliano, all while centimeters away from treasured artwork.
The scene opens with Beyonce in Peter Pilotto and Jay Z in Dries van Noten, both bosses flexing in suits infused with bright complementary tones.
Beyonce and Jay Z perch in another shot, with Beyonce in a full Versace look and Jay Z again in Dries van Noten.
Beyonce works her hips with her dancers, using the barrier in front of the painting The Coronation of Napoleon as a ballet bar in a Burberry bra and leggings.
It was all about Stephane Rolland Spring 2018 couture and an Alexis Mabille Cape for Beyonce as she and Jay danced in front of The Winged Victory of Samothrace.
Beyonce posed next to the Great Sphinx of Tanis in an MCM x Misa Hylton ensemble and Y Project cut out boots.
Jay Z was fly by her side in Alexander McQueen.
Bey dipped in Balmain’s Resort 2019 collection for another look.
And don’t sleep on Jay Z! He styled in a John Galliano Spring 2018 shiny pink suit.
And also opted for Gucci Spring 2018 for another scene.
The fashion was on point!
What do you think of the song and the video?
*Want to freshen up on your art history? Get the lowdown of the art featured in the video here.
This video was styled by Zerina Akers, June Ambrose, and Marni Senofonte.
