| "Run the World (Girls)" | ||||||||||||
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| Single by Beyoncé | ||||||||||||
| from the album 4 | ||||||||||||
| Released | April 21, 2011 | |||||||||||
| Format | Digital download | |||||||||||
| Recorded | MSR Studios (New York) |
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| Genre | R&B, pop | |||||||||||
| Length | 3:56 (album version) 4:44 (version with intro) |
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| Label | Columbia | |||||||||||
| Writer(s) | Terius Nash, Beyoncé Knowles, Wesley Pentz, David Taylor, Adidja Palmer, Nick van de Wall | |||||||||||
| Producer | Switch, The-Dream, Beyoncé Knowles, Shea Taylor | |||||||||||
| Beyoncé singles chronology | ||||||||||||
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"Run the World (Girls)" is a song recorded by American recording artist Beyoncé Knowles. It was written by Terius "The-Dream" Nash, Knowles, Nick "Afrojack" van de Wall, Wesley "Diplo" Pentz, David "Switch" Taylor, and Adidja Palmer. Production was handled by Switch, The-Dream, Knowles and Shea Taylor. The song's development was motivated by the fact that Knowles wanted something different – a mixture of different cultures and eras, a new sound, and a message which would give women strength. An unedited demo of the song, then thought to be titled "Girls (Who Run the World)", was leaked on the internet on April 18, 2011. "Run the World" premiered on US radio on April 21, 2011, and was digitally released worldwide on the same date as the lead single from Knowles' fourth studio album, 4 (2011).
"Run the World" samples "Pon de Floor" by Major Lazer, following the same alternative hip hop-dancehall genres, mixed with Knowles' pop and R&B styles. The song's title and lyrics comprise an unapologetically aggressive message promoting female empowerment. "Run the World" initially divided critics; some complimented the song's sample, its musical direction, and Knowles' aggressiveness, while others criticized the continuation of past themes and stated that they wanted to see Knowles switching lanes content-wise. Several critics compared "Run the World" to Knowles' other singles with similar themes such as "Independent Women" (2000) and "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" (2008) among others, stating that "Run the World" takes a more direct and assertive approach towards female empowerment.
The single reached number 29 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, and reached the top 10 in Australia, Belgium, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Scotland and South Korea. "Run the World" was a top 20 hit in Canada, France, Ireland, Italy, and the United Kingdom. The song's accompanying music video was directed by Francis Lawrence and was filmed in California over three days. It received widespread critical acclaim, with critics affirming that Knowles started a dance revolution and favoring the heavily-choreographed visuals. The video won Best Choreography at the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards and Best Dance Performance at the 2011 Soul Train Music Awards.
Knowles promoted the "Run the World" with high-profile live performances, notably at the 2011 Billboard Music Awards and on the French X Factor. Although her performance at the Billboard Music Awards was well received by critics, it ignited controversy surrounding the production due to visual similarities to a performance by Italian pop star Lorella Cuccarini in February 2010 at the 60th Sanremo Music Festival in Italy. "Run the World" was used to awake the crew of the final mission of the US Space Shuttle Atlantis and was dedicated to Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus. Heather Morris, covered "Run the World" for the American television show Glee episode "Asian F".
In an interview with The Capital FM Network in early March 2011, Shea Taylor confirmed that 4's lead single would premiere at the end of April.[1] "Run the World" was written by Terius "The-Dream" Nash, Knowles, Nick van de Wall, Thomas Wesley Pentz, Dave Taylor, and Adidja Palmer. It was produced by Switch, The-Dream, Knowles and Taylor. "Run the World" was recorded by DJ Swivel and Pat Thrall at MSR Studios, New York City, and was mixed by Serban Ghenea at MixStar Studios, Virginia Beach.[2] Before release, the song's title was rumored to be "Girls (Who Run the World)".[3] On April 14, 2011, two portions of the song leaked online[4][5] while an unfinished demo of "Run the World (Girls)" was leaked online on April 18, 2011.[6]
After having been awarded the Millennium Award by Billboard in early May 2011, recognizing her career achievements and influence in the music industry, Knowles was interviewed by the monthly magazine; she discussed her solo career and her fourth studio album. When asked about the boldness of "Run the World", Knowles said:
It's definitely riskier than something a bit more... simple. I just heard the track and loved that it was so different: it felt a bit African, a bit electronic and futuristic. It reminded me of what I love, which is mixing different cultures and eras — things that typically don't go together — to create a new sound. I can never be safe; I always try and go against the grain. As soon as I accomplish one thing, I just set a higher goal. That's how I've gotten to where I am.[7]
Between June 16 and June 27, 2011, one song from 4 each day was available to listen to on Knowles' official website, together with its accompanying photographs from the album packaging and a quote.[8] On June 27, 2011, "Run the World (Girls)" was the twelfth song to be made available. In the accompanying quote, Knowles said: "I try to write songs that will bring out the best in all of us and keep us close together. I think about saying the things that women want to say but sometimes are not confident enough to say. I am going to continue to write those songs that give women strength."[9]
After the single leaked on the internet, it was released early.[10][11] "Run the Worlds (Girls)" premiered on US radio on April 21, 2011, at 8 a.m. EST, and was made available for download on iTunes Stores worldwide the same day.[10] According to Digital Spy, the single was available on iTunes, and podcast service Concrete Loop, without payment a few hours before its official release[12] "Run the World (Girls)" was released to mainstream, urban contemporary and urban adult contemporary radio on April 26, 2011.[13][14] According to MTV News, "Run the World (Girls)" was well received by Knowles' fans on Twitter.[15] A Digital EP with three remixes of the song was released in Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and the UK, on September 2, 2011.[16][17][18][19]
The cover art for "Run the World (Girls)" was previewed on April 20, 2011. On the cover, Knowles strikes a bold pose while standing in sand. With her fist in the air covered in forearm protectors, Knowles wears a hip cut draping yellow Emilio Pucci dress and black stiletto boots.[10] The Los Angeles Times wrote that the photograph points to a "...post-apocalyptic war zone, donning an elaborate gold headdress and holding a red flag emblazoned with a black 'B'."[20] The photograph was taken on April 14, 2011.[21] Tray Hova of Vibe magazine complimented the cover art of the single, stating that Knowles looks "resplendent as hell" on the cover and that "Nobody's complaining about Bey season here."[22] Eleanor Young, in Marie Claire, described the cover art as "sizzling".[23] Ray Rogers of Billboard stated that Knowles "clearly transmits her trademark message of female empowerment".[7] Becky Bain of Idolator described the cover as "pretty disappointing",[24] and that, with a "ballistic, over-the-top club banger" song like "Run the World (Girls)", she expected something more than a body shot of Knowles, and criticized the cover for being confusing regarding the location of the photography. However, Bain complimented Knowles on her choice of stilettos as "...serious business".[24]
"Run the World" is an R&B[25] and pop song.[26] Jocelyn Vena of MTV News described the song as a "club banger"[27] and "female empowerment/girl power type of song",[28] like several of Knowles' previous singles, including "Independent Women" (2000)—with Destiny's Child—and "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" (2008).[29][30] Shea Taylor said that the track draws more from pop music than R&B, and is reminiscent of Michael Jackson's prime work.[31] "Run the World (Girls)" also incorporates dancehall influences[32] in the tradition of "Get Me Bodied" (2007).[33] The "high energy" song contains elements of go-go,[34] and is set to a marching militaristic drumbeat sampled from the club song "Pon de Floor" by Major Lazer and Vybz Kartel.[6][35][26] "Run the World" also consists of heavy synth pangs[26] and sharp African percussion is represented by intense, band-style drumming.[36][37]
A review in The Huffington Post, and Kevin O'Donnell of Spin magazine, noted that "Run the World (Girls)" features shout vocals and raw chanting.[26][38] In an interview with Ray Rogers of Billboard, Knowles stated that this was something she wanted to showcase in 4, "I used a lot of the brassiness and grittiness in my voice that people hear in my live performances, but not necessarily on my records."[39] Kathy McCabe of Australian newspaper The Daily Telegraph likened "Run the World" to "Single Ladies" and "Diva" (2009).[40] Johnston Breihan of The Village Voice compared "Run the World (Girls)" to schoolyard chants, due to its "cheer-team beats" and the repetitive use of the word "Girls".[41] Billboard magazine's critic Jem Aswad described the song's production, lyrics and Knowles' vocals:
"Run the World (Girls)" is a complex but catchy track that's actually more reminiscent of M.I.A. and Santigold than Sasha Fierce. The song combines a dancefloor-defying military drumbeat, a sample from Switch's group Major Lazer, an unconventional song structure and some incongruously pretty, layered melodics that are basically chanted but still employ [Knowles'] full vocal range. The lyrics, however, are just as female-empowering as we've come to expect. There's much more to the song than first meets the ear—it confuses on first listen but coalesces beautifully with repeated plays.[42]
Rap-Up stated that Knowles is dominant over men in "Run the World".[43] Bill Lamb of About.com described the song's lyrics as a declaration that women run the world.[37] "Run the World" opens with a short piano solo[44] and a heavy beat. Knowles chants, "Girls! / We run this mutha / Girls! / Who run the world."[45][46]the song moves into smoother, more persuasive but still boastful lyrics, "I think I need a barber/ None of these ho's can fight me/ I'm so good with this/ I remind you I'm so 'hood with this."[47] The song then features a breakdown, which serves as its bridge.[37] With gooey harmonies and sultry vocals, Knowles affirms that her "persuasion can build a nation".[37] She then delivers the repetitive hook and chorus lines.[48][48] In the second verse, Knowles sings that education gives women strength and independence.[49] Other lyrics of this theme include the line, "...smart enough to make these millions, strong enough to bear the children, then get back to business."[50] Jocelyn Vena of MTV News said that Knowles sings in her signature staccato style on the second verse of the song.[45] She repeats the chorus after the bridge lines[50] and her vocals fade out as the song finishes.[45]
Amos Barshad writing for the New York magazine described "Run the World (Girls)" as "kind of a monster — aggressive and intense and totally committed". He also called the song declarative and felt that as a lead single, it was "bluntly effective."[51] Matt Donnelly of The Los Angeles Times compared "Run the World (Girls)" to several of Knowles' previous singles, stating that the song has a harder edge than "Independent Women Pt. 1", nevertheless, it does not contain "the gritty, futuristic chic" of "Diva" (2009).[52] Latifah Muhammad of AOL's The Boombox commented that "Run the World (Girls)" took a different route for Knowles, stating that its message was "much more unapologetically aggressive" than that of "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)".[53] Complimenting its beat, Muhammad wrote that Knowles remains "draped fittingly" beneath the song's insistent marching beat.[53] Jenna Clarke of The Sydney Morning Herald called it an "infectious sounding track" having a catchy dance beat with empowering lyrics and added that the song showcases "a grittier sounding Beyoncé", yet still following the "power footsteps" of her other chart topping hits such as "Single Ladies" and "Crazy In Love" (2003).[54] Kevin O'Donnell of Spin magazine described the song as "a rousing girl power anthem", which resembles "Single Ladies" and "If I Were a Boy" (2008), and highlighted that "Run The World (Girls)" is "far rowdier" than any of those songs because of its synth squiggles and raw chanting.[38] Jarett Wieselman of the New York Post considered "Run the World (Girls)" to be one of the most exciting tracks Knowles has ever released.[55] Bill Lamb of About.com awarded "Run the World (Girls)" four and a half stars out of five, commenting that it seamlessly works as "a natural progression" for Knowles' music from her work with Destiny's Child onwards,[37] further writing:
There is no mistake ['Run the World (Girls)'] is a Beyonce record, and it is thrilling in its ability to push even further into exploration of [Beyonce's artistry]. If there is one current recording artist that would surprise no one in singing about running the world, it would be Beyoncé. What is left for a musical star of her caliber, owner of 16 Grammy Awards, and a movie star as well? Female empowerment has always been a key element of the music of Beyoncé from Destiny's Child's 'Independent Women, Part 1' through her own 'Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)'. It just has never been so overt as a declaration that women do, in fact, run the world [...] The aggressive, addictive rhythm track and words of female power are enough to make this song stand out among current pop releases, but it is the break beginning with a sultry Beyoncé seducing us with, 'My persuasion can build a nation', that sends it all over the top.[37]
Jocelyn Vena of MTV News called "Run the World (Girls)" a "sassy [song with] girl-power lyrics paired with [a] club appeal", further writing that the song is "loud and proud in its relentless message", and that Knowles "is clearly rallying the troops to her side".[47] Nick Minichind of VH1 lauded the song for several pointed comments on empowerment which according to him, "are skillfully weaved into the lyrics, without feeling out of place." He also wrote that "Run the World (Girls)" restores girls' own subjectivity and that the bridge shows a "practically Cleopatra-channeling Beyoncé."[44] Lewis Corner from Digital Spy described "Run the World (Girls)" as "yet another female-empowerment revolution that is sure to dominate dancefloors this summer".[25] Robert Copsey, also writing for Digital Spy, awarded the song four stars out of five, complimenting the "earthy beats, hypnotising hooks and militant drums pound[ing] relentlessly as Queen B declares it's 'GRLZ who run this mutha' with more woman-friendly conviction than Geri Halliwell at a Spice Girls convention circa 1998." He also added that "with no identifiable structure, the uber-trendy, uber-squiggly Major Lazer 'Pon De Floor' sample is free to roam as it sees fit; adding up to an aggressive, head-spinning and ferocious club stomper" .[56] Tom Breihan of Pitchfork Media wrote that "Run the World (Girls)" is "as devotedly pro-female as the title would lead you to expect", and is as dancefloor-directed as Knowles gets, in the tradition of "Get Me Bodied" and "Single Ladies".[33]
"Run the World (Girls)" also garnered mixed reviews from critics who, while commending Knowles for taking risks, agreed that the song was too divergent from her previous work. Slant Magazine's Sal Cinquemani wrote "[Knowles] misses the mark big time here" and called the song "plain daft". He, however, praised the song's bridge and Knowles "warm, gooey harmonies".[57] Despite lauding "Run the World (Girls)" for its demandingly aggressive message and its club-status beat, Brad Wete of Entertainment Weekly noted the continuation of past themes, wrote that he wanted to see Knowles "switching lanes a bit content-wise [...] She is fully capable of making a classic album as genius and relatable as Lauryn Hill's The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill".[48] Adam Rosenberg of Rolling Stone awarded the song three and a half stars out of five, writing that "From 'Independent Women' to 'Single Ladies', girl power has long been Beyoncé's Topic A, and 'Run the World (Girls)' is a blistering return to the theme. She forsakes fashionable sounds — no Eurodisco synths! — to belt over Diplo and Switch's ferocious dancehall beat. The message is party-hearty feminism. But with [Lady] Gaga, Britney [Spears], Katy [Perry], Rihanna and Taylor [Swift] all vying to be the queen of pop, you can bet Beyoncé is not looking to share the throne."[58] Maura Johnston of The Village Voice disapproved of the song's lack of structure, calling it "a bit overstuffed, but fairly enjoyable".[59]
Digital Spy ranked "Run the World" at number 16 on its list of 25 Best Songs of 2011.[60] It received a Teen Choice Award for Choice R&B/Hip-Hop Track at the 2011 Teen Choice Awards.[61] "Run the World" is currently nominated for Best Single at the 2011 Virgin Media Music Awards.[62]
Three days after its release to digital download outlets, the single debuted on the UK Singles Chart at number 18 on April 24, 2011.[63] A week later it had risen to number 11[64] and debuted at number five on the UK R&B chart.[65] The song descended the chart for five consecutive weeks to number 45 before rising again to number 23 on the singles chart and from number 12 to number 6 on the R&B chart on May 29, 2011 when the music video was released.[66][67] In Ireland, the single debuted at number 11 on April 28, 2011, the highest chart entry that week[68] and in France, "Run the World (Girls)" debuted at number 33 with 2,065 copies sold.[69] It peaked at number 12.[70] On May 1, 2011, the song entered the Australian Singles Chart at number 12, being the highest new entry that week,[71] and at number six on its urban chart.[72] One day later, "Run the World (Girls)" debuted at number 21 in New Zealand, where it was the highest new entry that week.[73] "Run the World (Girls)" declined in the charts in Australia and New Zealand. However, after the release of its music video, the single rose from number 42 to number 15 on the ARIA Singles Chart and peaked at number 4 on its urban chart on May 30, 2011.[72][74] The following week, it climbed to number 10 on the singles chart, where it peaked.[75] It was certified platinum by the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) for sales of over 70,000 copies.[76] The video release helped "Run the World (Girls)" re-enter the New Zealand Singles Chart at number 26 on May 23, 2011[77] and it peaked the following week at number nine.[73] "Run the World (Girls)" was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of New Zealand (RIANZ) for sales of over 7500 copies.[78]
"Run the World (Girls)" debuted at number 40 on Canadian Hot 100 chart issue dated May 7, 2011.[79] Paul Tuch of Nielsen SoundScan called the debut impressive as the song was released between digital and radio charts. It stands as Knowles' highest entry as a solo artist on the chart.[80] After declining in the chart for three consecutive weeks, "Run the World (Girls)" left the chart in the week ending May 28, 2011. For the week ending June 11, 2011, the single recovered from number number 60 to number 16 on the Canadian Hot 100 chart, receiving the titles of the greatest chart mover and the greatest digital gainer.[81] For the issue dated May 7, 2011, "Run the World (Girls)" debuted at number 23 on the US Hot Digital Songs chart, selling 77,000 downloads sold.[82] and at number 65 on the Radio Songs chart with 18 million listener impressions.[82] It accordingly debuted at position 33 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart,[82] and was the highest debut on the US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, opening at number 41.[83] Digital sales of the single declined by 39%, amassing a total of a total of 47,000 downloads; it fell to number 39 on the Hot Digital Songs chart.[84] It also fell to number 71 on the Radio Songs chart with 16.2 million listener impressions.[85] Consequently, the song fell to number 48 on the Hot 100 chart issue dated May 14, 2011.[86]
"Run the World (Girls)" was the highest debut, starting at number 37 on the US Pop Songs chart issue dated May 21, 2011.[87] For the same week ending, the song continued to descend the Hot 100 chart to number 65.[88] One week later, the single debuted at number 43 on the US Hot Dance Club Songs chart, becoming Knowles' nineteenth solo entry on that chart.[89] The same week, the single fell to number 76 on the Hot 100 chart.[90] After descending the Hot 100 chart for four consecutive weeks, "Run the World (Girls)" recovered 26 places, moving from number 76 to number 50 for the week ending June 4, 2011,[91] promoted by the song's re-entry on the Hot Digital Songs chart at number 44 after its music video's release.[92] The following week, the single escalated to number 29 on the Hot 100 chart, which was its peak, as it descended the Hot 100 chart in subsequent weeks.[93] "Run the World (Girls)" peaked at number one on the Hot Dance Club Songs chart issue dated July 9, 2011.[94] As of June 29, 2011, "Run the World (Girls)" had sold 424,000 downloads.[95] On July 29, 2011, it was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for shipment of over 500,000 copies.[96]
| The environment, I have to give her and Francis that credit. She really challenged Francis on finding a world that's unique to her. We could have easily done it in downtown L.A. We could have easily done it in downtown New York, but it was really important to her to find a world that was unique to her look and image to her new project | ||
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—Frank Gatson Jr to MTV News about the choice of the video's location.[97]
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The music video for "Run the World (Girls)" was directed by Francis Lawrence[28] Knowles worked with eight choreographers,[5] including Frank Gatson and Sheryl Murakami. The executive producer was Missy Galanida.[98] Filming took place in the Mojave Desert[27][99] and Inglewood, California.[100] Images from the Mojave shoot were leaked online on April 12, 2011, showing Knowles standing in a smoky, post-apocalyptic war zone,[101] wearing a gladiator outfit and a gold crown, and waving a red flag with a "B" logo.[100] She was surrounded by dancers in brightly colored skirts, black military-style jackets and peaked caps.[102] Other images showed an army of women posing against a ravaged car with the word "Révolution" sprayed on it. Posters of Knowles' face are seen behind the women.[100]
On April 13, more images were leaked, showing Knowles standing on sand wearing a bright yellow dress, black knee-high boots and gloves.[21] On April 20, 2011, a teaser for the music video was released on Knowles' official website which described the video as a "B Revolution". It opened with dawn breaking behind a barbed-wire fence, cutting to the word "Révolution" painted in red on a broken-down car.[3] Knowles then appeared riding a black horse.[3][10] The video was filmed between April 11, 2011 and April 13, 2011.[103] In an interview with MTV News on April 18, 2011, director Francis Lawrence, who had previoulsy directed the video for Lady Gaga's "Bad Romance" (2010), discussed the music video:
"I just shot a Beyoncé video at the beginning of this last week, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, which was fun, and I hadn't done a video since 2009. It'll be big, it'll probably be one of the bigger Beyoncé music videos ever done. And, I can say that I think the song is unbelievable. The Gaga thing took me by surprise, 'cause I've done videos for probably 15 years, and I had forgotten what it felt like to have a video premiere and have it be anticipated and have it explode. And yeah I hope the same for Beyoncé, but I don't know if that's gonna happen. It is a fantastic song, so I really hope that song catches for her, and I think the video's gonna be really fun and cool and different for her."[103]
On May 4, 2011, another 20-second clip of the music video was released, showing a troupe of females in a rural location, however Knowles is not seen during the clip.[104] A third teaser was released on May 10, 2011, showing Knowles standing in front of a burning car, riding a horse and assembling an army in a post-apocalyptic clip.[105] At a private listening party held on May 12, 2011 for 4, Knowles offered a small group of fans a preview of five songs from the album and the official video for "Run the World (Girls)", which reportedly features a lion and Knowles writhing around in sand.[106] The video was scheduled for release on May 13, 2011 at 12:01 a.m,[107] however Vevo confirmed that the release would be delayed because Knowles was "...perfecting it".[108] The video premiered on American Idol on May 18, 2011.[109] The director's cut of the music video is included on the deluxe version of 4. The video was released on July 1, 2011 but was leaked on June 29, 2011.[110]
Knowles hired 242 dancers,[97] Mozambican kwaito dance group Tofo Tofo and French duo Les Twins to appear in the video.[111] Tofo Tofo taught Knowles native dance moves for the video's routine.[112] Choreographer Frank Gatson told MTV News that the video was intended to reflect several genres of dance moves:
"We prepared a lot for it. We had seen something on YouTube; we had seen these three guys from Africa, this Mozambique African dance troupe [...] we were like, 'Wow, this is an amazing movement.' And that movement has always been in the back of our head for the last year. From there, we talked about a lot of concepts. [..] We say, 'Share the light, you sparkle brighter,' and we share our light with a lot of new, creative people. I feel like we really nailed it and, again, my hats off to the Tofo Tofo guys [from Africa], because none of us could imitate that. We had to bring them around to learn that [move], which is really, really interesting. They had such a great vocabulary of movement. That was probably one of the most beautiful experiences for Beyoncé. They were so humbled. It was hard finding them. They were really in a remote area; we had to get the embassy people involved. That was a process that took about two months or more."[97]
According to Billy John of Yahoo! Music, the militaristic themes of the video for "Run the World (Girls)" borrow from Tina Turner's 1979 film Mad Max and Janet Jackson's 1989 music video for "Rhythm Nation".[113] In most of the dancing, Knowles uses a minimalistic approach, sometimes focusing on a movement that accentuates the sample of "Pon de Floor"'s rapid dancehall rhythm.[113] Knowles opens with "an intricate, 20-second shoulder bounce" while other dances focus on her legs, feet, or hands; she varies her style between late 1980s hip hop, jazz, street and African moves.[97][113] According to the Daily Mail, part of "Run the World (Girls)"' dance routine were inspired by Riverdance, an Irish stepdancing stage show notable for its rapid leg movements and high scissor kicks while body and arms are kept largely stationary.[114] Knowles also reprised some of her previous videos including "Crazy In Love" (2003), "Baby Boy" (2003) and "Déjà Vu" (2006).[113]
In her 2003 music video for "Crazy in Love", Jay-Z throws a lighter on the floor, starting a fire along a trail of gasoline leading to a car. This scene was repeated for Knowles' 2009 music video for "Diva" (2009) where Knowles throws a lighter.[115] In the music video for "Run the World (Girls)", a car explodes while Knowles sings.[114][116] According to The Guardian, the music video also recalls the work of South African photographer Pieter Hugo's images of Nigerian circus entertainers who perform with hyenas on chains, in a scene where Knowles holds two hyenas on chains. In an interview with the New York Post, Missy Galanida said that Knowles never had to hold the hyena and that no one was allowed on set when the hyena was being filmed. Francis Lawrence kept two hyenas on set, but used only one and did not make them wear chains due to strict laws. Galanida added: "They are actually the hardest animals to shoot, and the most dangerous, so you have to be very careful. We basically duplicated them and added the chains."[98] The work of photographer, Ed Kashi is echoed in sequences of buffalo, Knowles dancing on sand and cars burning.[97]
In the video for "Run the World (Girls)", Knowles' outfits include armor, a high priestess' headdress, lingerie and runway couture Knowles is first seen wearing a red and gold embroidered dress with thigh-high boots, both by Alexander McQueen from fall/winter 2010. For a dance routine in sand, she wears a black fringed Norma Kamali outfit, followed by a Givenchy dress in a scene depicting Knowles with two larger-than-life hyenas. During a scene involving warriors, Knowles is wearing a black cut-out dress shown at Jean Paul Gaultier's spring couture show. A short Gareth Pugh dress with golden sequins and two gowns by Emilio Pucci – one yellow with a plunging neckline, the other emerald green with an asymmetrical cut – complete Knowles' outfits.[117]
The video begins with Knowles riding a black horse over an open, deserted plain. As the horse lifts off the ground, scenes of Knowles standing atop a ruined vehicle are shown, as she leads a large army of women. Additional scenery includes a large bull in the middle of the battleground and a large banner featuring an African themed drawing of Knowles. A woman seemingly nailed on a cross is later seen. As several scantily clad women are shown, a SWAT team of men charge towards the battlefield as a sample from Major Lazer's "Pon de Floor" is played. As the male forces arrive, Knowles, is wearing a large golden helm and is surrounded by a lion, a large group of women prepared for battle and banners featuring Knowles insignia. As the song begins, Knowles removes her armor and confronts the male army, engaging in a series of shoulder-thrusting dance routines.
Knowles dances seductively towards the men as scenes of Knowles wearing several outfits are seen, the first of which is a white evening gown as she grasps the chains of two chained hyenas. As the confrontation escalates, Knowles appears next to several flaming vehicles, and she undergoes another costume change. Returning to the main plot, the video shows Knowles in front of a small group of her female army, wearing a yellow ensemble and black heeled-boots. As the dancing commences, scenes of the two clashing armies are seen while Knowles writhes in sand. The females, now an even larger group, are shown dancing, using powerful and emphatic movements, in front of the male army with alternating costumes and several flags in the background. The video ends with the front line of females confronting the men face-to-face, raising their right arms and saluting to them as Knowles rips off the male general's badge, placing it on herself.
The video received general acclaim from critics. On the night of the video's premiere, Rap-Up complimented Knowles on starting a "dance revolution", her "heavily-choreographed visuals" and "menagerie of wild animals, outrageous fashion, and epic dance sequences".[118] Eric Henderson of Slant Magazine wrote that Knowles comes off like "barely sentient" but added that she remains cohesive and rational as a human being in real life. He further wrote: "Her reserve of crazy is far from bottomless, and she seems to save it all for her music videos, and I love her for that [...] [The video is] awesome in distressingly fragmented ways."[119] Billy Johnson of Yahoo! Music wrote that he "humbly bow[s] down to the Houston, Texas queen" and that Knowles unveils "her masterful game plan" in the "Run The World (Girls)" video. He called it Knowles' best video in her near 15-year career and concluded that even though the set design is compelling, the true highlight remains Knowles' dancing, further adding: "Beyoncé has always been a good dancer. 'Run The World (Girls)' is "America's Best Dance Crew" fly [...] It's refreshing to see Beyoncé, at this stage of her career, making a return embodying the passion and hunger of a new artist with a whole lot to prove."[113] Gina Serpe of E! Online wrote that "for anyone still laboring under the illusion that Beyoncé does not mean business, well, just watch this video. Described by B herself as 'futuristic', 'electronic' and 'African', the 29-year-old fused all that and more into a still remarkably cohesive music video."[120] CBS News wrote the "smoking hot video [was] blowing up on the web".[121] The Huffington Post wrote that Knowles largely brings back the elements that made "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)"'s video a hit, citing women's empowerment and a brand new dance.[122] Jarett Wieselman of the New York Post complimented Knowles' wardrobe and dancing in the video, and wrote that the choreography ensures the lyrics, "my persuasion can build a nation".[123]
James Montgomery of MTV News wrote Knowles has returned "to claim her throne" and that the message in the video "hammers the point home with all the subtlety of a jackhammer". He highlighted the "elaborate, hip-displacing dance routines, haute-couture costuming, wide-screen cinematography and expensive-looking sets".[124] Larry Fitzmaurice of Pitchfork Media wrote that "a thousand YouTube bedroom dancers flood[ing] the Internet with their own takes" were to come in the near future.[125] Rolling Stone praised Knowles' dance moves and wrote that it is the latest addition "to the canon of dance pop videos with over-the-top apocalyptic imagery".[126] Nick Neyland of Prefix Magazine wrote Knowles made the best music video of 2011, commending its "big budget extravagance, full of preposterous costumes and ridiculously over the top dance routines".[127] Brad Wete of Entertainment Weekly wrote: "With all due respect to her contemporaries, no one brings it like Beyoncé when it comes to her steps—intricate, fun, and executed flawlessly. Britney Spears' moves are all but gone. And though Gaga tried, she could not hold a candle to her two-time partner in crime, especially in 'Video Phone'." Wete concluded that the video is a contender for best dance video of 2011.[128] Sarah Anne Hughes of The Washington Post wrote that Knowles uses "the non-violent tactic of dance to fight off some bad guys in riot gear" and that Knowles' alter ego Sasha Fierce "is out in full force as she uses an army of swiveling and shimmying women, her middle finger and two hyenas on leashes to keep control of a post-apocalyptic society".[129] Ann Lee from Daily Metro wrote that Knowles looked sensational in the video, and referred to her hip-moving dance as "Bootylicious".[130]
The Daily Mail commented Knowles has undoubtedly brought about some new and inspired dance moves, before concluding that her moves in "Run the World (Girls)" are likely to "spark dance trends the world over".[114] Bill Lamb of About.com wrote that the dancing is "stellar and filled with unique new moves".[131] Billboard magazine wrote that Knowles made a triumphant return in the elaborate music video for "Run the World (Girls)" after creating classic clips for "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)", "Crazy in Love", and "Ring the Alarm".[132] Arielle Loren of CLUTCH magazine commented that "all of the traditional feminist criticism of her 'Run the World (Girls)' video is just another example of the disconnect between intellectual theory and real life". She called the video an anthem for contemporary women who are not afraid of being "powerful, driven, smart, and sexy", and added that almost every woman can feel some sort of empowerment from Knowles' music. She concluded: "When Beyoncé sings about girls running the world while busting African-dance-influenced choreography and swiveling her hips, it should remind all women that it is okay to run this mother f***er and still appreciate our breasts, move our hips, and showcase our multidimensionality (and sexiness) in a public way. Beyoncé's video provides one more signal that women need a new movement. Can we finally declare first, second, and third wave feminism as history? Has the fourth wave of feminism finally arrived?"[133] Maura Johnston of The Village Voice wrote that, in contrast to Knowles' videos for "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)", "Diva" and "Crazy in Love", the one for "Run the World (Girls)" is "a positively maximalist affair [...] though the power of (admittedly well-done) choreography".[116]
On July 20, 2011, the video received three nominations at the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards in the categories Best Female Video, Best Choreography, and Best Cinematography.[134] It won the Best Choreography category.[135] The video was nominated for Best Video at the 2011 MTV Europe Music Awards.[136] On November 27, 2011, the video won Best Dance Performance at the 2011 Soul Train Music Awards.[137] It is currently nominated for 'Best Video' at the 2011 Virgin Media Music Awards[138] and 'Favorite Music Video' at the 2012 People's Choice Awards.[139] Latifah Muhammad of AOL's The Boombox placed the video at number 11 on her list of the best videos of 2011, writing that its "shining moment comes in the intricate footwork inspired by African dancers [Knowles] found".[140] The writers of Slant Magazine put the music video at number 12 on their list of The 25 Best Music Videos of 2011.[141] The Guardian included "Run the World (Girls)" on its list of the best pop videos of 2011, praising its "glorious effect" and the heavy choreography, before concluding that it is "tiring just watching it".[142]
Knowles' first live performance of "Run the World (Girls)" was on May 17, 2011 on Surprise Oprah! A Farewell Spectacular at the United Center in Chicago. The special aired on May 23, 2011. Knowles wore a tuxedo leotard with red heels and was accompanied by 40 female back-up dancers.[143] The show was organized to commemorate the 25th and final season of The Oprah Winfrey Show. Celebrities including Madonna, Tom Hanks, John Legend, Dakota Fanning, Tom Cruise and his wife Katie Holmes were present.[144] Knowles altered the bridge's lyrics, singing: "Oprah, your persuasion can build a nation." The crowd held up blue lights in the arena as Knowles sang the song twice while Winfrey danced.[145] According to the Chicago Tribune, Knowles received the loudest applause of the show.[146] Knowles performed "Run the World (Girls)" live at the 2011 Billboard Music Awards ceremony at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on May 22, 2011. It was the song's first performance on network television.[147] Knowles interacted with video projections on the stage backdrop.[147] The set opened with the roaring head of a tiger, after which Knowles appeared wearing a "metallic spider's web dress". A set of flapping wings was projected before Knowles started dancing in front of an array of random, abstract images. A sea of birds descended from the top of the frame.[113] Images of Knowles were projected and simultaneously performed Knowles' dance routine. She caught a set of virtual drumsticks and played snares on the projection.[113] Finally, 100 back-up dancers emerged to dance collectively to "Run the World (Girls)"[147] The writers of Billboard magazine described the live performance as both "stunning" and "impressive".[148]
During her promotional tour of Europe, Knowles performed at several festivals and made only a limited amount of television appearances. Knowles performed the song at a private concert in Nice, France, on June 20, 2011.[149][150] One week later, Knowles flew to the United Kingdom to serve as the closing act at the 2011 Glastonbury Festival on June 26, 2011, where "Run the World (Girls)" was featured as the second to last song on the 90 minute set list, before finishing with "Halo". Knowles was also the solo female ever to headline the Pyramid stage in over twenty years.[151] Knowles then returned to France, where she performed the song along with her live band on Le Grand Journal in June 2011.[152][153] "Run the World (Girls)" was sung live by Knowles on June 28, 2011 on the French X Factor. She donned a Roman-styled white dress for the night. Midway through the song, she climbed onto and dance on the judges' desk.[154] Knowles returned later in the show to perform the second single from the album, "Best Thing I Never Had".[155]
On July 1, 2011, Knowles gave a free concert on Good Morning America as part of its Summer Concert Series, for which she wore a yellow crochet dress, gold stilettos and her hair in bushy locks. The set included "Run the World (Girls)"; Rolling Stone called Knowles' performance "...downright frenetic".[156][157] Knowles also performed "Run the World (Girls)" live on August 14, 2011 during her 4 Intimate Nights with Beyoncé shows in Roseland Ballroom, New York City,[158] to an audience of 3,500. Knowles wore a gold dress and performed with her all-female band and backing singers, called the Mamas.[159] Jason Newman of Rap-Up write that ["Run the World (Girls)"] utilized flamboyant light displays to bring elaborate routines to a smaller stage, though most of the time, Beyoncé viewed the reduced space as advantageous over limiting."[158] Brad Wete of Entertainment Weekly wrote that "Run the World (Girls)" was among the several highlights of the show.[159] Joycelyn Vena of MTV News wrote that "it was [Knowles'] ability to throw a party during faster jams like 'Party', 'Countdown', 'End of Time' and 'Run the World (Girls)' that put on full display her range as a performer, dancing and singing live the entire night."[160] During the ITV special A Night With Beyoncé which aired on December 4 in the United Kingdom, Knowles performed "Run the World (Girls)" to a selected crowd of fans.[161]
Following her performance at the Billboard Music Awards, Knowles initially received widespread praise from fans, critics and celebrities.[162] However, the following day, critics voiced concerns about similarities to a performance by Italian pop star Lorella Cuccarini in February 2010 at the 60th Sanremo Music Festival.[163] Billy Johnson, Jr of Yahoo! Music wrote: "Kenzo Digital, who spent a month creating Beyoncé's interactive video, told Yahoo! News that Lorella concert footage is only part of the inspiration for Knowles' show: "[The Cuccarini artists] are awesome and do incredible work as well, but there are a lot of different inspirations for where our piece came from."[163] In a Yahoo! Amplified interview with Daniel Kreps, Digital said: "It's just a bare white screen. It's a technique in video art since the [19]80s in terms of frontal projection and interactive things. That's really nothing new. It's not even a new technology. It's just an incredibly simple, awesome storytelling device, and with a performer like Beyoncé it becomes incredibly powerful."[164] Knowles later responded through an interview with AOL Music, saying she was inspired after finding Cuccarini's performance online:
"My makeup artist showed me the performance of Lorella Cuccarini a year ago, and it inspired me so much. I then met with the talented people who worked on it. The technology and concept were so genius. She was inspired after discovering Cuccarini's performance online. Thank God for YouTube or I would have never been exposed to something so inspiring. I never worked so hard on anything in my life as that performance for the Billboard Awards."[165]
Knowles pre-recorded a message to the astronauts of the final mission of the US Space Shuttle Atlantis on July 16, 2011. With "Run the World (Girls)" playing in the background, Knowles said: "Good morning Atlantis. This is Beyoncé. Sandy, Chris, Doug, and Rex, you inspire all of us to dare to live our dreams—to know that we are smart enough and strong enough to achieve this. This song is especially for my girl Sandy and all the women who have taken us to space with them, and the girls who are our future explorers."[166]
"Run the World (Girls)" was used in a commercial for Knowles' fragrance, Pulse (2011). Released on August 18, 2011, the 15-second advertisement, directed by Jake Nava, shows Knowles wearing a metallic gown and walking through lights an instrumental version of the song plays in the background.[167]
A dancer who had worked with Knowles,[168] Heather Morris, covered "Run the World (Girls)" for the American television show Glee episode "Asian F", which aired on October 4, 2011. Morris danced to the song wearing a leather cheerleading skirt.[169] Amy Lee of The Huffington Post called Morris' the dance choreography "...amazing"[169] and Kristen Dos Santos of E! News called Morris' performance "knockout" and added that it might be Glee's best performance to date.[168] Morris' version debuted at number 91 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and at number 47 on the US Hot Digital Songs chart for the week ending October 22, 2011.[170] It also peaked at number 130 on the UK Singles Chart for the week ending October 15, 2011.[171]
Credits are taken from 4 liner notes.[2]
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| Country | Date | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Worldwide | April 21, 2011 | Digital download[10] |
| Australia | Contemporary hit radio[191] | |
| United States | April 26, 2011 | Contemporary hit radio[13] |
| Urban radio[14] | ||
| Urban adult contemporary radio[14] | ||
| Australia[16] | September 2, 2011 | Digital EP |
| New Zealand[17] | ||
| Europe[18] | ||
| United Kingdom[19] |
| Book: 4 (Beyoncé Knowles album) | |
| Wikipedia books are collections of articles that can be downloaded or ordered in print. | |
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