Beyoncé is one the greatest artists of all time. Performing since she was a child, she has earned megastar status both as a member of best-selling girl group Destiny's Child and as a solo act.

The most-awarded musician in Grammy history, Beyoncé's ascension to 'Queen Bey' is cast with critically acclaimed albums, a desire to explore her creativity and a willingness to push boundaries and defy expectations. Her stage performances are compelling to watch, and she is undoubtedly one of the great vocalists of our time.

Outside of music she is a savvy businesswoman, one half of power couple the Carters - with husband rapper Jay-Z - social justice advocate, style icon, fashion designer and sometime actress and film director; a defining, artistic tour de force for the twenty-first century.

The Essential... Beyoncé is her complete story; from child performer to prominent cultural figure, fully illustrated throughout with stunning, iconic images.

The Essential... series

Celebrating the world's best-loved popular icons and cultural luminaries, The Essential series is packed with facts, quotes, photos and stories.