Beyoncé talks feminism, motherhood & the real meaning of 'Formation'

Queen Bey rarely talks about her personal life - or does any interviews at all - but in an exclusive chat with Elle, the diva opens up about the true meaning of feminism, the real message behind her controversial song 'Formation',  Destiny's Child, motherhood and future plans.

Put the kettle on, we'll be here awhile.

Beyoncé on being a boss businesswoman and running her own company...

'It's exciting, but having the power to make every final decision and being accountable for them is definitely a burden and a blessing.'

Beyoncé  on the meaning of feminism...

'Everyone who believes in equal rights for men and women doesn't speak the same, or dress the same, or think the same. If a man can do it, a woman should be able to. It's that simple.'

Beyoncé on weight and body image...

'It's not about perfection. It's about purpose. We have to care about our bodies and what we put in them. Women have to take the time to focus on our mental health—take time for self, for the spiritual, without feeling guilty or selfish. The world will see you the way you see you, and treat you the way you treat yourself.'

Beyoncé on Destiny's Child...

'I discovered my power after the first Destiny's Child album. The label didn't really believe we were pop stars. They underestimated us, and because of that, they allowed us to write our own songs and write our own video treatments. It ended up being the best thing, because that's when I became an artist and took control.'

Beyoncé on her new activewear line, Ivy Park...

The essence of the range is to 'celebrate every woman and the body she's in while always striving to be better. I called it Ivy Park because a park is our commonality. We can all go there; we're all welcomed.'

Beyoncé on 'Formation'...

'Anyone who perceives my message as anti-police is completely mistaken. I have so much admiration and respect for officers and the families … But let's be clear: I am against police brutality and injustice...If celebrating my roots and culture during Black History Month made anyone uncomfortable, those feelings were there long before a video and long before me.'

Beyoncé on her next career phase...

'I hope I can create art that helps people heal. Art that makes people feel proud of their struggle.'

Beyoncé on motherhood...

'I think just like any mother, I just want my child to be happy and healthy and have the opportunity to realize her dreams.'