All Hail Queen B! Beyonce is always appropriate to play, anytime and any place. This isn't just because she's the Queen, she's got songs that can fit any girls's mood at anytime. You're sad? There's a Beyonce song for that. You're ready to party? Plenty of Beyonce songs for that. You're feeling empowered to the nth degree? There's definitely a Beyonce song for that. No matter the mood you're in, the Queen has been there and wrote a song for you that fits the occasion.
1. Throwback dance party? “Crazy in Love” on blast!
In 2003, most college kids were still learning long division and state capitols. "Crazy in Love" takes us all back to a simpler time and the nostalgia is strong with this one. When I was that little, I don't think I really knew what being "crazy in love" even meant. But it didn't matter, the staccato trumpet sounds and upbeat bass made everyone from 8 to 35 want to dance. It's most definitely a classic for anytime of day or when you're ready to go out with your friends.
2. For those moments when you know it’s just “Me, Myself and I.”
A lot of people are very familiar with Beyonce's big love songs, but I've always been equally aware of her more melancholy melodies. "Me, Myself, and I" tells a story about a woman suffering from a relationship filled with lies and betrayal, leading to a feeling of isolation. While it seems really sad, the chorus is subtly empowering. It's about gathering strength to stand on your own two feet after a bad relationship or hardship in general. Definitely more of a downer compared to her other works, but I've always loved this song because it's a reminder that stuff happens and you have no choice but to pick yourself up and move on.
3. When you caught that “Beautiful Liar” cheating. But who’s mad?
A Beyonce and Shakira duet? Who's idea was this, because they're clearly a genius. With a slightly Middle-Eastern sounding intro, this song is all about catching your man cheating. I love this song so much because Shakira and Beyonce play off each other as both women who are cheated on and equally hurt. But they both say "Eh, who needs him. He's a liar." If every girl thought this way after being cheated, oh how many tears would be saved from those pretty eyes.
4. When it’s time to put on that “Freakum Dress.”
This is the going out anthem that I think is completed underrated. You never hear this song around, but it's perfect getting ready music for a night of good times with your girlfriends. A "Freakum Dress" is what you put on when you're ready to get noticed and have all eyes on you when you walk into the club/bar/party/ wherever you're going for a good time. It's short, backless, and makes you feel like a model. Every woman's got one! And it needs to be pulled out every once in while when this song is on full blast.
5. “Déjà Vu” for those moments when you’re thinking about him too much.
No, this outdoes that Michelle Branch song ("Cuz you're eeevverryywhere to me") in terms of seeing that one guy everywhere. Whether you just got an intense crush, or you're just starting to see a guy, this song is all you. He's the only one on your mind, and no one comes close. Whenever there's someone with about the same height and hair color that's about 100 feet away, your heart skips a beat because you're sure it's him... until it's not, and you start to question your sanity.
6. “Listen” for more of an emotional ballad/show tune.
Who didn't love "Dreamgirls?" That movie was gold. This is arguably one of Beyonce's most emotional songs. I don't think she belts any of her other songs to the level that "Listen" gets to. It's intense, and definitely not a casual listen.
7. “Ring The Alarm" when you know the break-up is coming and you're not ready.
It's the end and you're not ready. If you're angry that your SO wants to leave you for another, this is your song. I'm pretty sure that, excluding Beyonce's more feminist and girl-empowering songs, this is the angriest song she's got. Jealousy, rage, and possessiveness characterize this song, and it's glorious.
8. "Run the World (Girls)" because it's time for some motivation.
Are you ready to take over the world or not?! Follow the Queen as she leads the revolution!
9. "Flawless"...yeah you are!
Can every girl play this, every morning, before they get out of bed, for the rest of their lives? I feel like the world would be a better place if that happened. This song just dissipates jealousy and insecurity from the mind because Beyonce plus Chimamanda Ngozi equals ultimate female empowerment combo to ever exist. Ladies, life isn't about comparing yourselves to other women for the attention of men. That kind of thinking constrains you. Listen to the Queen. Listen to Chimamanda.
