Beyoncé & Jay-Z’s Relationship Timeline In Photos

While they may be icons in the world of music, Jay-Z and Beyoncé have still managed to shield much of their private life from the public. But thanks to some rare photos, it’s possible to track the development of their relationship over the last two decades. So, with their 15th wedding anniversary fast approaching, we’ve gathered 30 pictures that help tell Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s love story.

1. How it all began (2001)

Beyoncé was 18 years old when she was first introduced to Jay-Z, but the pair didn’t become an item straightaway. As the singer explained to Oprah Winfrey on OWN, “We were friends first for a year-and-a-half before we went on any dates. That foundation is so important for a relationship.” They seem pretty friendly in this 2000 snap, flanked by Beyoncé’s Destiny’s Child bandmates. An early date? Probably not!

2. The MTV appearance (2002)

After being featured on Vanity Fair’s magazine cover towards the end of 2001 Jay-Z and Beyoncé dropped a collaborative track nearly 12 months later: “’03 Bonnie & Clyde.” Then, the following month, the famous duo were invited to appear on the TRL show on MTV in November 2002. Could anyone else make denim look this cool? The folks in the crowd were certainly impressed!

3. A loving gaze (2002)

As 2002 was drawing to a close, Beyoncé and Jay-Z were pictured together again, this time just before Christmas. The couple both attended that year’s Z100’s Jingle Ball at Madison Square Garden. Judging by the loving gaze they shared here, we wouldn’t be shocked if the pair spent most of the festive period in each other’s orbit. The only thing missing from this shot is a bit of mistletoe!

4. Courtside stars (2003)

The NBA All-Star game is one of the biggest highlights in America’s sporting calendar. But it wouldn’t be that surprising to hear that a lot of the focus during the 2003 match-up was on the sidelines. Yes, as you can see from this photo, Jay-Z and Beyoncé were in attendance. And they seemed to be having a ball — figuratively and literally! We wonder which team they were pulling for?