It's safe to say that there are many important takeaways from JAY-Z's "Family Feud" music video, which stars the rapper alongside Beyoncé and even Blue Ivy Carter. While initial details from the video's 60-second preview made it obvious that the rapper had something major to get off his chest, there appear to be other hidden meanings in JAY-Z's "Family Feud" that should be pointed out.
The lengthy video, shows JAY-Z as he struts to the altar with his oldest daughter, Blue Ivy in tow. Heading towards Queen Bey as she sits, seemingly awaiting his proclamation, JAY-Z is also seen rapping his sins while inside of the church's confessional. The star-studded video also includes a myriad of actors and entertainers as they gather to discuss social issues currently plaguing the world.
Amidst many themes in the futuristic video is the topic of the power couple's marriage. The speculation of infidelity was notably fueled by Beyoncé's now infamous jab at "Becky with the good hair" on Lemonade. It is a factor which made "Family Feud" even more highly anticipated, considering the lyrics directly respond to the reference, as Jay raps:
"Yeah, I'll f*ck up a good thing if you let me
Let me alone, Becky"
JAY-Z has been open about his past infidelities — a topic which was discussed on both his recent album 4:44 as well as Beyoncé's Lemonade, not to mention in interviews the rapper has done since releasing his album. And this new visual has many underlying themes about love, life, and other worldly issues that fans shouldn't miss.
1. Reverse Movement
While JAY-Z is heading toward the altar, there are moments when the camera footage reverses his steps. It seemingly give the inclination that there is some apprehension and fear in his actions.
2. Back Stabbing
There's a moment when a woman stabs a man in the back during a moment of intimacy, signaling feelings of betrayal. Actor Thandie Newton portrays a woman who will seeming stop at nothing to rule the kingdom. Her greed and selfishness results in the death of both her brother (Michael B. Jordan) and her lover (Trevante Rhodes).
3. Women's Empowerment
In terms of world issues, the video, directed by Ava DuVernay, sends an important message about feminism featuring large discussion amongst many powerful women including; Susan Kelechi Watson, Rosario Dawson, Brie Larson, Constance Wu, Niecy Nash, Mindy Kaling, and Rashida Jones, just to name a few. The dynamics of the all-female gathering certainly send a strong and empowering message about women leaders.
4. The Next Generation Is Watching
There are moments when Blue Ivy is featured sitting in a church pew as she looks on at the things taking place before her. It is certainly a moment which serves as a reminder that the young and impressionable are watching adults make choices which will one day become detrimental to them.
5. Matriarchy
Blue Ivy also looks on at Beyoncé as she stands on the pulpit of the church, showcasing the importance, strength and fortitude of mothers and their relationships with their children.
6. Equality Within The Human Race
There is a notable moment when Omari Hardwick sits down as one of two presidents who together try to defend themselves to Jessica Chastain while reminding of the fact that "we are all related."
7. The Current Powers In Charge Are Creating A Hateful Future
At one point in the video, the narrator takes a jab at the current ideologies of government, indicating that making America great is making us "afraid of each other."
While the new "Family Feud" video seems to only slightly address the topic of JAY-Z and Beyoncé's marriage, it appears that the entertainers have decided to remain committed to shedding light on some of the many social issues that this world continues to endure. As a human race, there's definitely no denying JAY-Z's prophecy: "nobody wins when the family feuds."
