Solange Knowles Turns 38: The Incomparable Artist Who Made Her Own Seat at the Table

Solange Knowles turns 38, and as we celebrate the day this phenomenal singer entered the world, we must also acknowledge her extraordinary talent.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Solange (@solangeknowles)

Born in Houston, Texas, Solange established herself as an innovative creator early.  Distinguishing herself from her successful musical family, Solange released her debut album, “Solo Star” in December 2002.  The project peaked at number forty-nine on the U.S. Billboard 200 and number twenty-three on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums by February 2003, producing popular singles “Feelin’ You” (featuring N.O.R.E.) and “Crush.” 

She followed up with her “Sol-Angel and the Hadley St. Dreams” in 2008, which sold around 197,000 copies. Solange took some time off, during which she married her now ex-husband,  Alan Ferguson, in 2014. Her nuptials sparked one of the culture’s most iconic bridal party photos, recreated countless times across Black weddings, further demonstrating how Solange has continuously sparked trends.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Katia Allen (@yesitskatia)

Just two years later, her 2016 album “A Seat at the Table” catapulted Solange into the spotlight. This critically acclaimed body of work, featuring the soul-stirring lead single, “Cranes in the Sky,” secured a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance, marking one of the most significant milestones in her career.

Additionally, Solange’s visual arts projects have been widely praised. Through her Saint Heron creative studio, she self-composed and directed a performance at the 58th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale de Venezia in 2019. Shortly after, Solange released her 188-page book, “In Past Pupils and Smiles,” reflecting on the performance. That same year, the vocalist unveiled her fourth studio album,  “When I Get Home,” which further showcased her artistry with stunning visuals for tracks such as “Almeda” and “Way to the Show.”

Needless to say, Solange has established herself as a powerful and innovative force in the industry with even more to offer the world.