Beyoncé’s 10 Most Empowering Songs of All Time
Today, Sep. 4, marks the birthday of the one and only Queen Bey, Beyoncé herself.
Few artists have created such an impactful legacy in the history of music, becoming a cultural icon and musical influence bringing her own style of R&B, hip-hop, pop and even country to the masses. Beyond innovating with her sound, she's also demonstrated her power advocating for both gender and racial equality, with much of her music focused on not just injustice, but also empowerment and fighting for what's right. To celebrate her special day, we're highlighting her 10 most empowering tracks of all time, and why they mean so much to us.
('TEXAS HOLD 'EM' via PARKWOOD ENTERTAINMENT)
'***Flawless'
"***Flawless" is more than just a song—it's a mission statement. Backed by a moody, pulsing trap sound, it's a declaration of how hard she's worked to get to where she is today, how she's so much more than just a wife and how every woman wakes up perfect just the way she is. The track also features an impactful speech from Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie about the importance of taking up space and not diminishing your own wants or dreams to appease any man.
'Freedom'
"Freedom," featuring Kendrick Lamar, comes to life with thunderous sound, serving as an empowering anthem to Black women everywhere. With its funky and psychedelic '60s-inspired organ synths, it evokes the time of the civil rights movement as Beyoncé seeks to be a beacon of hope and inspire others to break through the bonds that hold them back.
'Sorry'
Empowerment can come in many forms, and Beyoncé's "Sorry" demonstrates the strength she's found in cutting off toxic love. Effortlessly fusing electronic and R&B sounds, it's proud and defiant as she leaves her cheating ex in the dust. Though it's clear that she's not quite as over him as she insists, she's ready to declare that it's over and that no amount of apologizing is about to bring him back into her arms.
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'Don't Hurt Yourself'
Featuring Jack White, "Don't Hurt Yourself" showcases a different side of Beyonce's musicality, infusing a touch of reggae sounds with edgy rock to tell a unique story of betrayal. She knows just how valuable and strong she is, and suggests that she might be too good of woman for her man, and that every time he is unfaithful to her, he's not hurting her feelings. He's only hurting himself.
'Formation'
"Formation" is another powerful anthem that takes a uniquely Beyoncé approach to its subject matter, backed by reverberating and twangy synth sounds as she pays respects to her roots and her beauty as a Black woman. The track incorporates the sounds of both New Orleans and Dallas to tell Bey's story, and the success she's found by putting in the work to make all of her dreams into reality.
'Irreplaceable'
Once again, Beyoncé reminds us just how satisfying and freeing it can be to leave behind lackluster love in "Irreplaceable." It's a dreamy R&B classic about realizing just how disposable her man is, and how his words won't be able to sway her now that she's recognized the truth of the matter. He's lost all power over her, and she's fully ready to embrace that fact.
'6 INCH'
In "6 INCH," featuring The Weeknd, Beyoncé celebrates hard-working women everywhere. The darkly moody R&B track encourages them to keep it up, earn that cash and support themselves, using the symbol of six-inch heels as a representation of power and success. She suggests that women shouldn't just be proud of everything they have—they should proudly show it off, too.
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'XO'
Of course, power doesn't always come from within, and "XO" is an atmospheric and glittery pop ode to the people who always have Beyoncé's back. It's dedicated both to her husband and her adoring fans, letting them know that she's always able to depend on their love when she needs it most, and how they're what keeps her going. That inspiration and love can be felt and heard in every sparkling note.
'Countdown'
Beyoncé flaunts the unbreakable power of love yet again in "Countdown," a brassy R&B reflection on her relationship to husband Jay-Z. Not only are they both global superstars at the top of their game, balance wealth, fame and success, but through all of the ups and downs, they remain madly in love with each other. That happy marriage is truly something to celebrate.
'JOLENE'
And finally, with "JOLENE," Beyoncé turns the classic Dolly Parton song on its head. Instead of pleading to the titular woman not to steal her man away, she's instead warning her. She knows just how desirable she is, and so Jolene's advances will mean nothing to her loyal partner. Jolene should just give up now if she doesn't want to make a huge fool of herself.
Can't get enough of COWBOY CARTER? Click HERE to discover all of its most memorable lyrics to use as photo captions.