"Bey" is Back with "4"

By: Ebony L. McCline

While some artists drop albums at least once a year, there are a select few who take their time between projects. These unique individuals recognize that it takes time to create an album that shows growth and their development as artists. Also, they make sure their fans will appreciate the blood, sweat, and tears that they put into their work. Not to take anything away from those artists who release albums more frequently, but I’ve come to appreciate those who realize that all good things take time. 

Luckily, for #TeamBey, Beyonce’ took enough time (about three years) off before releasing her latest album, “4.” While “Dangerously In Love” and “B’Day” could both be arguably considered her greatest pieces of work, “4” has the potential to hold a torch to the two. In two words, “4” is “classic Bey.” For those who admire her work, her fourth solo album delivers those same upbeat, dance tracks mixed with some sensational ballads that have the power to bring tears to your eyes. 

With all the significance behind this album, it was clear from the start that she would put her all into this project. Before the album was released last Tuesday, singles like “1+1,” “Best Thing I Never Had,” and “Run the World (Girls)" gave way to what her fans could expect from her this time around. However, it’s ballads like “I Miss You,” “I Was Here,” and “Rather Die Young” that steal the show. Rest assure, “4” works as a form of relationship therapy, which is characteristic of Beyonce’. It’s something for those couples who are just starting out, those who are doing great, and those who are at a crossroads. 

Selling a little over 300,000 copies in its first week, “4” will no doubt be another platinum album that Beyonce’ can add to her collection. What’s interesting is that it’s already TRIPLE platinum in Brazil, and it’s #1 in the UK. It’s safe to say that international fans are showing her way more love.