Beyonce has spoken out to deny that her video for 'Formation' is any way 'anti-police'.
Further controversy has been created with regards to Beyoncé’s ‘Formation’ video. The video was released during Black History Month, and highlighted the idea of “hands up, don’t shoot”, that is pushed by the Black Lives Matter movement.
Since the death of Michael Brown in Ferguson, police brutality in America has came under fire. In support of the Black Lives Matter movement, the video to ‘Formation’ shows police in riot gear and a young boy in a hoodie dancing in front of them.
There has been a campaign by police unions in America to boycott Beyoncé, and there was even a failed protest in New York. In the interview with Elle magazine, Beyoncé said: “I'm an artist and I think the most powerful art is usually misunderstood," Beyoncé defended herself. "But anyone who perceives my message as anti-police is completely mistaken. I have so much admiration and respect for officers and the families of the officers who sacrifice themselves to keep us safe."
She continued: "But let's be clear: I am against police brutality and injustice," she explained. "Those are two separate things. If celebrating my roots and culture during Black History Month made anyone uncomfortable, those feelings were there long before a video and long before me. I'm proud of what we created and I'm proud to be part of a conversation that is pushing things forward in a positive way."
Meanwhile, Beyonce looks set to drop a new album any day now - after eagle-eyed fans noticed that unlisted videos had been added to her Youtube page, while others noticed work being done to her iTunes in preparation. There were reported claims of a leaked tracklist, and rumours of the album dropping on 1 April, but they turned out to be unfounded.
Beyonce's full upcoming UK Formation tour dates are below. For tickets and more information, visit here.
Tue June 28 2016 - SUNDERLAND Stadium Of Light
Thu June 30 2016 - CARDIFF Principality Stadium Cardiff
Sat July 02 2016 - LONDON Wembley Stadium
Sun July 03 2016 - LONDON Wembley Stadium
Tue July 05 2016 - MANCHESTER Emirates Old Trafford Cricket Ground
Thu July 07 2016 - GLASGOW Hampden Park National Stadium
Sat July 09 2016 - DUBLIN Croke Park
