I grew up in Houston, Texas
Visiting Prairie View
We rehearsed at TSU
For many years in Third Ward
And I always dreamed of going to an HBCU
My college was Destiny’s Child
My college was traveling around the world
And life was my teacher
I wanted a black orchestra
I wanted the steppers
I needed the vocalist
I wanted different characters
I didn’t want us all doing the same thing
And the amount of swag is just limitless
Like the things that these young people can do
With their bodies and the music they can play
And the drum-rolls and the haircuts
And the bodies and the
It’s just not right
It’s just so much damn swag
A Celebration of Black Excellence and Identity
“So Much Damn Swag (Interlude) (Homecoming Live)” by Beyoncé is a heartfelt tribute to her roots and the vibrant culture of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Through a reflective spoken interlude, Beyoncé shares her journey from Houston, Texas, to the global stage, acknowledging how her experiences with Destiny’s Child and life itself became her form of higher education. She expresses deep admiration for the creativity, individuality, and limitless confidence she witnessed in the HBCU community.
Empowering Individuality and Artistic Vision
The interlude underscores Beyoncé’s desire to showcase diversity within black culture, from orchestras and steppers to vocalists and unique personalities. She highlights the magnetic energy and style—”so much damn swag”—that permeates these communities, celebrating their ability to innovate and inspire through music, dance, and self-expression.
Song Credits
Artist: Beyoncé
Release Year: 2019
Label: Columbia Records