In her heartfelt memoir Matriarch, Tina Knowles opens up about the early stages of Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s relationship, revealing that the iconic couple began as friends who supported each other through their musical journeys.

Their bond first blossomed in the early 2000s through long phone conversations about the challenges and triumphs of life in the music industry. Although Beyoncé faced uncertainty and had another suitor at the time, she ultimately chose Jay-Z, marking the beginning of a deep connection that united the Carter and Knowles families.

The couple’s 2008 wedding was an intimate, private affair held in their home, reflecting their desire to nurture their relationship away from the spotlight. Tina emphasizes how family unity has remained a cornerstone of their enduring love story.

In Matriarch, Knowles also reflects on raising her gifted daughters under the public eye and the powerful lessons she learned from them. She shares how she instilled confidence, encouraged their dreams, and stood beside them as they carved their own paths.

Tina writes movingly about the support she received from her daughters during her battle with breast cancer, highlighting the strength of their bond and the joy she’s found in motherhood.

She also dedicates a poignant portion of her memoir to her late nephew, “Uncle Johnny,” a beloved and influential figure in Beyoncé’s life. Johnny, an openly gay, talented seamstress embraced by the drag community, left an indelible mark on their family and Beyoncé’s artistry, especially in her Renaissance album.

Tina honors Johnny’s legacy, sharing his struggles with HIV and the love, creativity, and resilience he brought to their lives. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-acceptance and belonging.

Through candid storytelling and touching tributes, Matriarch offers readers a rare glimpse into the heart of one of music’s most iconic families—and the woman who helped shape it.