During Beyoncé’s time in the spotlight on Monday night at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards, the 42-year-old singer of Texas Hold ‘Em begged people to be open to appreciating art “with no preconceived notions.”
Stevie Wonder presented the Break My Soul singer with her award, referring to her as “a true visionary” and expressing gratitude for “motivating the world to become a better place.”
Dressed in black leather and a cowboy hat, Beyoncé thanked Wonder immediately upon entering the stage. She also disclosed that Wonder plays harmonica on her rendition of “Jolene,” which can be found on her recently released Cowboy Carter album, which has a country influence.
“Tonight you called me an innovator, and for that, I’m very grateful,” she said. “Innovation starts with a dream. But then you have to execute that dream, and that road can be very bumpy. Being an innovator is seeing what everyone believes is impossible. Being an innovator often means being criticized, which often will test your mental strength.”
The 32-time Grammy winner went on to request that “all the record labels, every radio station, and every award show” be more receptive to unconventional ideas and more willing to embrace innovation in the music business.
“My hope is that we’re more open to the joy and liberation that comes from enjoying art, with no preconceived notions,” she said.
The celebrity continued by expressing her gratitude to everyone who came before her and cleared the path by refusing to accept “any label placed upon them,” such as Michael Jackson, Tina Turner, Prince, Wonder, Andre 3000, Tracy Chapman, Linda Martell, and Rosetta Tharpe.
She ended her speech with a heartfelt nod to her husband, JAY-Z, whom she referred to as “my rock [and] best friend,” and her children, Blue Ivy, 12, and Sir and Rumi, 6½.
“My three beautiful children who continue to be my inspiration and my biggest blessing,” she said.
According to a press release, Beyoncé was recognized for her impact on popular culture, her willingness to take artistic chances throughout her career, and her capacity to “successfully transform [her] music.”
