Beyoncé sent Madonna a respectful note of gratitude — plus a striking bouquet — days after they released their collaboration on a new version of “Break My Soul,” which weaves into “Vogue.” At the time of its release in 1990, “Vogue” marked one of the first works in mainstream pop culture to spotlight elements of the gay, black, and Latino-led ballroom scene.
“Thank you, queen,” Beyoncé’s note read, according to an Instagram story Madonna shared on Tuesday. “I am so grateful to you. You have opened so many doors for so many women. You are a masterpiece of genius.” (“The Genius of the Masterpiece” is a lyric from the third track of “Renaissance,” the much-loved “Alien Superstar”.)
“Thank you for letting me sing in your song and thank you for naming the remix!!!!” Beyoncé wrote, referencing the official name of their “Break My Soul” collaboration – “The Queens Remix.”
In their remix, Bey shouts out artists who inspire her, including “Queen Mother Madonna” and her sister, Solange, as well as Lizzo, Grace Jones (twice!), Aaliyah, Aretha Franklin, and fellow “Destiny’s Child” member. ” and best friend Kelly Rowland. Beyoncé also nods to some of the legendary houses that have shaped ballroom culture, including the House of LaBeija and the House of Xtravaganza, whose members have helped shape much of the lingo Beyoncé dispenses. throughout the album.
Beyoncé pays homage to LGBTQ artists of “Renaissance,” and several black queer and trans musicians helped shape it, including DJ Honey Dijon, rebound legend Big Freedia, and late New York drag pioneer Moi Renee.