The Carters - Apeshit (2026)
: Rolling Stone named it the best video of 2018, later ranking it as one of the greatest music videos of all time. Pitchfork described it as an "audacious declaration of unity" and a celebration of Black love.
The track features production from and includes ad-libs from Quavo of Migos.
: Beyond the art, the song contains sharp commentary on contemporary issues, such as JAY-Z's lyrics about turning down the Super Bowl halftime show and criticism of the Recording Academy. THE CARTERS - APESHIT
: The duo is also seen with the Winged Victory of Samothrace and the Venus de Milo , positioning themselves as modern masterpieces. Musical and Critical Reception
The video is an "embodied disruption" that challenges the Western-centric narrative of art history. Key artistic references include: : Rolling Stone named it the best video
: The inclusion of Marie-Guillemine Benoist’s 1800 portrait is particularly significant because it centers a Black woman as the subject rather than in a state of servitude.
"APESHIT" by (Beyoncé and JAY-Z) is widely considered a groundbreaking cultural piece, specifically for its stunning music video filmed inside the Louvre Museum in Paris. Released in June 2018 as part of their surprise joint album Everything Is Love , the track is a high-energy trap anthem that explores themes of Black excellence, institutional power, and the reclamation of art history . Symbolism and Art History : Beyond the art, the song contains sharp
: Beyoncé and her dancers perform in front of Jacques-Louis David's massive painting, using the synchrony of Black bodies to "upstage" symbols of white monarchy.