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The Origin of Beyoncé’s Unique Surname: A Fortuitous Error
Regarding Angie Beyince, Tina Knowles’ niece, the variance in their surnames stems from inconsistent spellings among Tina and her siblings. Tina’s birth certificate erroneously registered her surname as “Celestine Ann Beyoncé,” a detail that would later define a global icon.
The Desire for Correction
As Tina recounted in her memoir, Matriarch, she initially sought to alter the spelling. While with her brother, Larry, one evening, she wrote, “I expressed wanting to practice writing my own name, and he assisted, spelling each letter for me.” A pause occurred when they reached her surname.
“He reminded me that we, the children, all possessed varying spellings of our parents’ last name, Buyince,” she articulated. “There was Beyince, Boyance, and my version, Beyoncé.” Tina Knowles’ birth name, registered as Beyoncé, ultimately became the name that propelled her daughter to international fame and recognition.
Acceptance and Identity
Tina recalled pressing her mother, Agnéz, to rectify the error on her birth certificate. However, Agnéz responded, “Be grateful you possess a birth certificate at all. There was a time when Black individuals were not even granted birth certificates.” Furthermore, Agnéz asserted, “Your designation is exquisite.”
A Legacy Preserved
Evidently, Tina grew fond of the name, subsequently bestowing it upon her firstborn, Beyoncé. “Regardless of its original spelling, it represented our lineage,” Tina penned. “Our heritage. The most prized possession I owned, and I was now able to bestow it. I perpetuated its existence.” This decision cemented “Beyoncé” as a symbol of artistry and cultural impact.