Classical Bae Ezinma Finds Empowerment And Faith On The Stage With Beyoncé

Ezinma, famously known as Classical Bae, has journeyed from viral sensation to becoming a powerful force in the music industry. Her story is one of resilience, faith, and sisterhood, as she recently shared with PEOPLE during a chat at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival.

This Los Angeles-based artist, aged 33, had just wrapped up an intimate solo performance at the Chase Sapphire Lounge when she delved into her transformative experience touring with Beyoncé. In a conversation with PEOPLE, Ezinma revealed how this remarkable opportunity had changed her life.

Ezinma confessed that, earlier in her career, she faced criticism and moments of discouragement. However, the turning point came when Beyoncé’s musical director reached out to her, even before she had a management team. “It was such a moment of affirmation for me,” she recalled. It was the realization that people were seeing and hearing her, setting her firmly on the right path.

Joining Beyoncé’s band became a profound experience for Ezinma. She found herself surrounded by a group of talented women of color, forming a sisterhood that she describes as “powerful.” “I learned so much from how to perfect your craft and how to put on a show,” she added, acknowledging Beyoncé’s unparalleled expertise in these aspects. This experience was particularly meaningful for Ezinma, who started playing the violin at the age of 4 in her hometown of Lincoln, Nebraska.

Ezinma had the privilege of being part of The Formation World Tour during the iconic Lemonade era and Beyoncé’s headline-making 2018 Coachella shows. She cherished the rituals that came with performing alongside Queen Bey, including pre-show prayers. “She prays before [going on stage], and she’s a woman of faith, and that’s something that’s just really beautiful to bear witness to,” Ezinma revealed. 

According to her, being part of a team was an experience she valued, especially since most of her work today is solo.

One unforgettable moment in Ezinma’s career was when she received a call at the gym, asking her to fill in for a performance with music legend Stevie Wonder at New York City’s Central Park. With no sheet music and just 30 minutes to prepare, she took the stage and found herself in sync with the band. It was a defining moment that boosted her confidence to pursue her solo career.

Another powerful moment for Ezinma was when her father attended one of her performances in London. Initially hesitant about her musical path, as he had hoped she would pursue a career in medicine, he finally embraced her art. “I’m so proud of you,” he told her after the show. It was a moment of validation that left a lasting impact on her.