Inside Beyoncé's journey to billionaire status

BEYONCÉ has officially become a billionaire, according to a recent report from Forbes.

- LUTHO PASIYA

She achieved this milestone in December 2025, becoming the fifth musician to reach a ten-figure fortune.

This achievement is a testament not only to her music but to the empire she has built over decades, driven largely by her iconic shows, smart business moves and consistent cultural influence.

I was only 12-years-old when Destiny's Child released their final studio album, which served as a farewell project after their hiatus for solo careers.

The album, Destiny Fulfilled, featured hits like Lose My Breath and Soldier.

It is hard to imagine now, but the album was considered uncertain at the time, given the solo successes of Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams.

After their second album as a trio, Survivor in 2001, each member's solo ambitions grew louder. This led to a hiatus at the end of 2001 and the release of solo albums.

The success of these projects created the expectation that Destiny's Child had run its course.

Yet the group surprised fans by announcing Destiny Fulfilled in late 2004.