THE KNOWLES FAMILY
I grew up with Beyoncé, her sister Solange, her mother Tina and her eldest cousin Angie. It was a real sisterhood. I remember the first time I went to Tina’s salon in Houston, Texas, and seeing a strong, black woman with her own business. She was so beautiful and glamorous: a role model. She introduced me to artists, lawyers and doctors and made me feel like I could literally do anything. Solange was five when we met. She was on stage singing “I Love Your Smile” by Shanice and it was the cutest thing. Solange has always walked to her own beat and it was so bomb to be so young and to have that. When it was time for me to do my solo projects [after Destiny’s Child], Solange was right there with me. I was absolutely petrified to do that first project and she helped me write songs and we had the best time. I love her.
BEYONCÉ
Bey and I met at rehearsals for [the girl group] Girl’s Tyme when we were nine. We were both singing our butts o and she was impressed I knew all the words to Whitney Houston’s “I’m Your Baby Tonight”. We grew up in this industry together; we’ve shared ups and downs and we are closer than ever. I can tell her anything and she’ll never judge me. She’s a real friend: genuine, loyal and trustworthy. She’s also one of the sweetest people you ever did meet.
I’m extremely proud of Bey and how real she is. She could have an ego, but she’s the most humble person I know. I admire her passion and hard work. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t look up to her as an artist; she has ignited fire inside so many women.
This article originally appeared in the July Issue of marie claire Australia.
