Beyoncé
by Beyoncé
  • Record Label: Columbia
  • Release Date: Dec 13, 2013
User Score
8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 1750 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,482 out of 1750
  2. Mixed: 66 out of 1750
  3. Negative: 202 out of 1750

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  1. RedNBlue
    Jan 8, 2014
    10
    sensuality, mature, sexuality, strenght, fierce, emotion, honesty... a wonderful album for mrs carter, the best of her career for me, i still listening this 2/3 times by day
  2. lovemetacritic9
    Mar 4, 2014
    3
    Beyoncé's voice is good, it's indisputable... Bút I tried much to listen the full album. It's so hard to feel such tunes. I hope she will return to her before style "single ladies"
  3. walterhenderson
    Apr 15, 2015
    9
    Not only did Beyoncé’s new album already break multiple records, including being the fastest-selling digital album of all time, but it also has changed the way artists will release music in the future. With absolutely no announcement or promotion ‘BEYONCÉ’ was unleashed to the public exclusively on iTunes, equipped with 14 songs and 17 music videos. What makes this ‘visual album’ so muchNot only did Beyoncé’s new album already break multiple records, including being the fastest-selling digital album of all time, but it also has changed the way artists will release music in the future. With absolutely no announcement or promotion ‘BEYONCÉ’ was unleashed to the public exclusively on iTunes, equipped with 14 songs and 17 music videos. What makes this ‘visual album’ so much more respectable is the fact that all this was created while Beyoncé travelled around the world on a sold-out world tour.
    With this revoluntionary release strategy, Beyoncé has shown other artists that they can take control of their work and don’t have to hype it up in order to sell. Word gets around fast on the internet, so releasing something digitally means that everyone will know about it soon enough. There is no longer any need to announce an album 5 months before its release, because it doesn’t take that long for consumers to catch on anymore.There is also the inevitable burden of “hype”. We have so many artists these days who advertise the hell out of their product and act as if it’s going to be amazing. So much hype just ends up creating too many expectations which hurts the artist in the long run. The same can be said for companies in other industries as well.
    And it’s not only Beyoncé’s release strategy that’s amazing, the music is great as well. The R&B diva who has always held it together finally lets go on this album and shows us emotion we’ve never seen before. On “Pretty Hurts”, the first song on the album, Beyoncé tells the story of a pageant queen hopeful who is faced with the burden of having to be big-chested and skinny. She sings, “Vogue says thinner is better,” on the Sia-penned track. And while the song was written by the same woman who brought us so many pop hits in the last few years, including Rihanna’s “Diamonds”, Beyoncé makes the song her own and doesn’t end up sounding like a Sia imitator as some others have.
    Beyoncé also gives us some blunt honesty on the record. We see this clearly on “Ghost”, a song Beyoncé wrote about being fed up with record labels and the same old game. “I’m climbing up the walls ‘cause all this **** I hear is boring,” Beyoncé states in the song before expressing, “I don’t trust these record labels, I’m touring.” Later in the song we hear Beyoncé telling us that she doesn’t expect to make a lot of money off this album, a sarcastic and ironic statement in that ‘BEYONCÉ’ has already sold over 800k copies worldwide after only three days of being released.
    It isn’t all political, however, as the album covers such a wide variety of topics and genres that its almost hard to digest properly on first listen. But with writing help from Miguel, Justin Timberlake, Pharrell, and even Chairlift’s Caroline Polacheck, what was there to expect. There’s signs of funk, R&B, trap, alternative rock, and so many other genres throughout the album. This results in a body of work with so much mass appeal that it’s insane to say it won’t crossover to multiple formats. The only other influential Pop album I can think of that changed the game and was so appealing to different audiences was ‘Thriller’, and we all know how that turned out.
    Unfortunately, with such a strong statement of an album, there will be negative feedback. I’ve noticed some critics who’ve praised the album but ended up giving it a not so favorable score. It’s interesting that these publications are the same ones who give mediocre indie and rock albums 10s across the board. The problem with a lot of these critics is that they have a biased view on music and see Pop as inferior, so even if, just for example, Nicki Minaj came out with a better album than Muse, the latter would still get the higher rating just because it’s considered rock. Just because it’s a Pop artist doesn’t mean it’s inferior though, and Beyoncé has clearly earned that respect. Hopefully, as it all sinks in and people realize the brilliance, creativity, and hard work put into this project, some more traditional views will start to change.    … Expand
  4. ClodaghG
    Nov 27, 2014
    2
    As a seasoned R&B veteran who has long earned her stripes, Beyonce's fifth studio offering is disappointing in its lack of growth from previous albums and its unoriginal rehashing of tried and tested R&B tropes. Ms Knowles would do well to remember that sexier does not always equal better and hard work does not always deliver when the content is abysmally thought out to begin with. WhileAs a seasoned R&B veteran who has long earned her stripes, Beyonce's fifth studio offering is disappointing in its lack of growth from previous albums and its unoriginal rehashing of tried and tested R&B tropes. Ms Knowles would do well to remember that sexier does not always equal better and hard work does not always deliver when the content is abysmally thought out to begin with. While others laud her vocal technique and attention to detail, the lack of depth in this album makes it evident that Ms Knowles lacks basic understanding of music genres other than R&B and variations of pop. It is disheartening to know that this incomprehension does not matter when you have a fantastic production team, incredibly marketing savvy and a solid fanbase who will swear blind that pink is blue, just so that their 'Queen' may continue to reign.… Expand
  5. kimkardashian
    Dec 13, 2014
    10
    BEYONCE shows so much artistic growth. It's a truly stunning album.
    Rocket, Drunk In Love and ***Flawless have to be some of the best songs of all time!
  6. YassLight
    Jan 13, 2015
    10
    The most memorable and the most musically rich album to date. Bey is the queen and will always remain. My favorite songs are: Haunted, XO, Heaven, Blow and Jealous.
  7. brxlno
    Feb 17, 2015
    10
    Beyoncé's self-titled album came out one year and some months ago and I still don't know if the surprise was the unexpected release or the supreme quality inside every lyric and every track on this album. It's clearly her best (so far) and probably the best of 2013 & 2014 years. This album and the artist behind it are not overrated, they're getting what they deserve. Nobody knows what toBeyoncé's self-titled album came out one year and some months ago and I still don't know if the surprise was the unexpected release or the supreme quality inside every lyric and every track on this album. It's clearly her best (so far) and probably the best of 2013 & 2014 years. This album and the artist behind it are not overrated, they're getting what they deserve. Nobody knows what to expect from her next work, neither do I, but I'm certain of one thing: She will slay us all again.… Expand
  8. lightdream
    Apr 18, 2015
    10
    It is simply brilliant, just like Beyonce's other albums. She's a star, a powerful, confident woman and those qualities are shown in this masterpiece. The songs are great like always.
  9. gingerpresident
    Jul 12, 2019
    5
    Beyonce is a very good performer, has a unique personality, voice and whatsoever... but critics just love her in a way that's too close to lick her booty rather than to actually judge her albums. This album was a big delusion for me, even if i appreciated her visuals.

    One word: OVERRATED.
  10. brufz
    Feb 20, 2016
    10
    This album explores themes as identity, relationships, sexuality and motherhood. The album does not have a large and typical ballad. But has love songs. I was surprised by the explicit lyrics - but not shocked -but it just shows that Beyoncé delivers her art as she wants it and not in order to please a certain age or social class.
    Drunk in love is the single where she returns to    This album explores themes as identity, relationships, sexuality and motherhood. The album does not have a large and typical ballad. But has love songs. I was surprised by the explicit lyrics - but not shocked -but it just shows that Beyoncé delivers her art as she wants it and not in order to please a certain age or social class.
    Drunk in love is the single where she returns to collaborate with JAY Z, and as always, does not disappoint.
    Blow is probably the most retro single from the album and the most fun.

    A part from the lyrical content, the revolutionary idea of delivering some with a video for each song revolutionized the industry and how the fans react to it.

    Even if this album would not be a success in sales, it would be in live shows. Beyoncé is a hurricane on stage and gives life to the most boring song.

    Great Job. Feminine, feminist, sexual and powerful-    … Expand
  11. dans3148
    Jan 30, 2016
    10
    Surely one of the best albums of the past decade, let alone it's innovative and magnificently staged release, the biggest surprise was that the album, in it's entirety, was a masterwork. Not one song was a filler, every track was single-worthy and every video accopanied them beautifully. This is a faultless album
  12. dougchiki
    Apr 25, 2016
    10
    This album changed my life; love everything about it and have listened to it almost every day since it came out 2.5 years ago. It establish Bey as an icon whose name can be billed next to Prince, Michael, and Madonna.
  13. kedeeena
    Oct 21, 2017
    8
    Really liking many of the songs on this album, especially Yoncé, Flawless, Drunk in love and Partition. One of the greatest albums of 2013. Beyonce is really talented.
  14. Auravoting
    Jul 13, 2019
    10
    Loved the album filled with so many classics and hot songs truly a blessing to hear them
  15. Aidabey
    Jul 19, 2019
    10
    Amazing, I like it very much! Queen Bey is so talented! On repeat daily. Go buy & stream! Btw after the lion king here
  16. huntybey
    Feb 6, 2020
    10
    One word describes this work of art: EXCELLENT! Beyoncé always pushes herself and her team, how did she film all of these videos while on a world tour?
  17. Lottebrln
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    Changed the Game with the digital dropping... still fresh after almost 6 years
  18. lucasnoleto
    Mar 21, 2020
    10
    lenda que parou o mundo com o lançamento desse álbum, maior artista viva!!!!
  19. Cresal
    Mar 28, 2020
    10
    Amazing. Love her voice. Love her style. She creates amazing albums. Her versatility is amazing
  20. Destinyschild
    Jun 6, 2020
    10
    YES BEYONCÉ KWEEN
  21. Ilyk2ratethings
    Jul 24, 2020
    10
    A masterpiece in every sense. Beyoncé has given a sonic, visual, musical, artistic and every other sense of masterpiece with this album.
  22. Olayknowles
    Jul 25, 2020
    10
    Beyoncé has made yet again another excellent album! As she always have. I'm grateful for it.
  23. guxtavus
    Jul 25, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Um álbum coeso, bem feito, beyoncé foi muito perspicaz ao LANÇAR esse álbum, e principalmente do modo que foi lançado!… Expand
  24. eduardorizatto
    Jul 25, 2020
    10
    Beyonce changed the history! This is a real masterpiece! It is perfect and sounds so good!
  25. Giancarlobr
    Jul 31, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Um dos maiores só álbuns pop já lançados ! E trás o nome da maior artista do mundo viva ! BEYONCÉ !… Expand
  26. SLHG
    Sep 2, 2020
    10
    The best album of 2014 and one of the best off all time. If you never listened you should !
  27. Guillemgamell
    Jul 29, 2022
    10
    She shook the world and shifted the industry forever... This album will forever remain her first of a streak of defying and defining albums that cemented her as the greatest of our time.
  28. beyhiveking
    Jul 29, 2022
    10
    This an album of a lifetime! Spectacular! Perfection! Deserved Album of the Year
  29. Dammy
    Aug 11, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The self titled release from Beyoncé marked a turning point in her career. A bold, sexy statement of her life and career.… Expand
  30. luisefrndz
    Aug 14, 2022
    10
    This album is revolutionary, not only in the release but the content and strategy behind it.
  31. Jellowpe
    Aug 16, 2022
    10
    You can hear real specific production and amazing vocals and lyrics ! Beyonce outdid jher self again in my opinion
  32. Mandara123
    Aug 21, 2022
    10
    Amazing album with great music!
    Beyonce show a deep aspects of herself that as never been seen on media. Dark and twisted in a beautiful way!
  33. mdallag
    Dec 18, 2013
    8
    at the beginning i really though that was all about her strategy, but i was surprised by this album, which is definitely her best. it's different, more mature
  34. Leslie-fr
    Dec 14, 2013
    10
    2013 has been a year of overblown promotional album roll-outs. Everyone from Kanye West and Jay Z to Daft Punk and Arcade Fire tried some novel new strategy to launch their new music into the universe. And right before its end (the year's end, not the universe's... we hope) the Queen, the King, Beyoncé threw both of her middle fingers up and dropped a brand new self-titled album out of2013 has been a year of overblown promotional album roll-outs. Everyone from Kanye West and Jay Z to Daft Punk and Arcade Fire tried some novel new strategy to launch their new music into the universe. And right before its end (the year's end, not the universe's... we hope) the Queen, the King, Beyoncé threw both of her middle fingers up and dropped a brand new self-titled album out of thin air—at midnight, just in time to keep music writers up all night listening.

    Beyoncé is a lot of things. It's an audio album with a longer, visual component. It's her most layered effort to date, with lyrics tackling motherhood, marriage, sexuality and self-empowerment. It's also her most sonically daring, gleaning influence from everything from Prince, David Bowie, Madonna, and The Velvet Rope    … Expand
  35. leonamalves
    Dec 14, 2013
    10
    O álbum está maravilhoso. Vai totalmente fora dos padrões da Beyoncé. Os vocais deste álbum são os melhores de toda a discografia dela. Merece o sucesso que está fazendo. Go Queen B
  36. Nico85
    Dec 17, 2013
    10
    Great album, I must say i wasn't 100% sold the first time i listened to it but after the second time i was hooked, the third i loved it and now it's on repeat. Beyonce is a great artist and this album is proof of it.
  37. Jaelmanzo
    Feb 1, 2014
    2
    all songs are the same. This album has no vision. is boring, tedious and not at all innovative. people like it because it's beyonce, if he had published another artist, no one would like.
  38. kingchucka32
    Dec 13, 2013
    10
    Beyoncé's self titled fifth studio album comes as a big surprise at a much needed time in music. This album is in a way a re-introduction (even to her hardcore fan base) to the new grown woman we now know as Beyoncé. Good luck with trying to categorize or label this album in one specific genre. It is however, hands down her best effort as of yet. Sonically this album is a masterpiece andBeyoncé's self titled fifth studio album comes as a big surprise at a much needed time in music. This album is in a way a re-introduction (even to her hardcore fan base) to the new grown woman we now know as Beyoncé. Good luck with trying to categorize or label this album in one specific genre. It is however, hands down her best effort as of yet. Sonically this album is a masterpiece and visually stunning. It emotes so much emotion it's almost tangible. In closing Beyoncé has proved yet again why she is a trendsetter and follows her rules.… Expand
  39. JuniorGc123
    Dec 13, 2013
    10
    O álbum está maravilhoso, os vocais como sempre estão IMPECÁVEIS. Sem contar que já vem com todos os clipes. sem comparações estamos falando da RAINHA Queen B.
  40. gabyluna
    Dec 13, 2013
    10
    perfeita,sensacional,demorou mas de surpreza e mas gostoso......estou super feliz ela surpreende cada vez mas....o clipe da BLUE feita aqui no brasil espetacular fiquei emocionada!!!!
  41. Seychellesqueen
    Dec 13, 2013
    10
    So proud of this lady for exceeding my expectations for her new album.
    Sultry sexy aggressive strength and so many more are subjects she covers in this album.
    Beyonce should proud of herself for releasing this monumental visual ALBUM
    Keep the jingle singles to the little girls.
    Beyonce is a grown ass woman and owning it.
  42. AntonioCarlosCa
    Dec 13, 2013
    10
    esse álbum para mim perfeito demais esse era meu sonho ver a Bey num estilo mais Gueto como sempre a Bey sabe surpreender seus fãs Parabéns Queen você merece tudo e muito mais
  43. Felipe1234
    Dec 13, 2013
    10
    Perfect! The best album ever. Beyoncé is the new queen, bow down bitc*s.
    Beyoncé's self titled fifth studio album comes as a big surprise at a much needed time in music. This album is in a way a re-introduction (even to her hardcore fan base) to the new grown woman we now know as Beyoncé. Good luck with trying to categorize or label this album in one specific genre. It is however, hands    Perfect! The best album ever. Beyoncé is the new queen, bow down bitc*s.
    Beyoncé's self titled fifth studio album comes as a big surprise at a much needed time in music. This album is in a way a re-introduction (even to her hardcore fan base) to the new grown woman we now know as Beyoncé. Good luck with trying to categorize or label this album in one specific genre. It is however, hands down her best effort as of yet.    … Expand
  44. thetruthseeker
    Dec 13, 2013
    10
    Combining eccentric visuals and great music. This album is amazing. Pop music usually strays away from this creativity but Beyonce shows us with this record just how innovative she is.
  45. WillySaunders
    Dec 13, 2013
    9
    The Best Surprise Ever... This album reached the people more than a publicid of 3 months, everybody got surprised and loved that surprise, No one could do better this than her! Very well done.
  46. KINGAlesus
    Dec 13, 2013
    10
    Beyoncé really came into her own with this album. In this album she took notice of her power and importance,and stopped being the censored version that was always clean. She has finally reached a point in her career, where she can be herself and people WILL appreciate her for that. As she said months in "I Been On", "I don't need no hype." And she was right. Her release was unprecedentedBeyoncé really came into her own with this album. In this album she took notice of her power and importance,and stopped being the censored version that was always clean. She has finally reached a point in her career, where she can be herself and people WILL appreciate her for that. As she said months in "I Been On", "I don't need no hype." And she was right. Her release was unprecedented by her fans, by the press, and by her true stand. Everyone was shocked and pleasantly so. This album is a proper sequel to 4, as it shows her continuing to experiment with new music types while still slaying with vocals. Her hard work is imminent and will definitely pay off, as this album is very Grammy worth (20th Grammy anyone?). The Queen has returned. Stand back or you will be stung. Slay a bit Beyoncé. … Expand
  47. rihannanuncios
    Dec 13, 2013
    10
    Coitado dos haters da JP, BCharts e afins. Não se preocupem, amigos. O fato de vocês se revoltarem seja pelo resultado de BJ ou outros albuns das vulgo-cantoras que vocês seguem, não irá mudar o resultado final dessa média. Afinal, se usuários mudassem alguma coisa, britfãs fariam MUTIRÃO. Beijo sabor 1# em 96 países, com médias que variam a maioria de 80 pra 90. Quem sabe a diva de vocêsCoitado dos haters da JP, BCharts e afins. Não se preocupem, amigos. O fato de vocês se revoltarem seja pelo resultado de BJ ou outros albuns das vulgo-cantoras que vocês seguem, não irá mudar o resultado final dessa média. Afinal, se usuários mudassem alguma coisa, britfãs fariam MUTIRÃO. Beijo sabor 1# em 96 países, com médias que variam a maioria de 80 pra 90. Quem sabe a diva de vocês não compram, pra aprender a fazer algo de qualidade, enquanto isso... elas elogiam no twitter.… Expand
  48. Leononce
    Dec 13, 2013
    10
    Imprevisível, cativante, viciante... Indiscutivelmente o melhor album do ano. Se alguém ainda colocava em prova o talento de Beyoncé, agora teve a prova que precisava pra ver que ela está no TOPO da música mundial. Curvem-se, vadias!
  49. ReidaPan
    Dec 13, 2013
    10
    Mais uma vez Beyoncé não deixou a desejar e nos presenteia com esse álbum surpreendente, trazendo bastante Urban e Dark, com musicas que tocam no fundo da alma (eu mesmo me arrepio ouvindo-o), e com certeza esse já o álbum do ano, dando na cara de certas cantoras, principalmente a que usa calçados DiJean e usa leite de rosas.
  50. knlilla
    Dec 13, 2013
    10
    All the songs are great to listen to, very enjoyable. I listened to it from first to last, more times, and it's a whole, it's worth playing on repeat. I absolutely loved her previous album, '4', but sometimes it was hard to listen to it many times on repeat because she sang such high notes and her vocals were so highlighted on the songs that it made your head hurt after too many repeatsAll the songs are great to listen to, very enjoyable. I listened to it from first to last, more times, and it's a whole, it's worth playing on repeat. I absolutely loved her previous album, '4', but sometimes it was hard to listen to it many times on repeat because she sang such high notes and her vocals were so highlighted on the songs that it made your head hurt after too many repeats (at least mine, but as I said, I loved it, just not 20 times on repeat). This album though doesn't make you feel that. The songs that could be huge hits, in no specific order: Blue; Drunk in love (ft. Jay-Z); Pretty hurts; XO; Flawless; Partition; 'Yoncé; Rocket. Potentially Blow and Mine (ft. Drake) as well. I love how the 'Partition' and 'Jealous' videos have similar themes and even some completely identical scenes, signifying how a woman can react differently in a situation. I saw some people dis the 'strategy' (or lack of however you want to put it) she used to put this album out, but if she puts out a new album with the well-known, regular strategies they diss her as well, that's what some haters just do, and this is why opinions like those are irrelevant for me. Instead of being in consumers' faces in TV, billboards, internet, etc. for weeks and months before release she chose this completely different path that no one has ever done before, and that takes a lot of courage, because it can be a very big win or a very big lose. In my opinion it is a win and I hope time will prove that. While Miley and Gaga (I do like Gaga, no hate) speak about their album as something revolutionary Beyonce ACTUALLY makes it revolutionary and THIS is why her fans defend and love her to death: she grows more and grows faster than anyone in the industry! She doesn't follow trends anymore like when her father managed her in a 'successful and safe for superstars' way, she makes those trends instead! As for the album being sexually explicit: she is a 32 year old married woman and she sings about loving a man, loving love itself and loving sex. I'm a 27 year old married woman and I love sex too. Every woman can and should love sex and not be afraid of saying that. She doesn't talk like a hooker (Nicki Minaj comes to mind...), she talks like a woman in a passionate relationship and there's nothing wrong with passionate women loving the sh.t outta sex! For anyone hating on Beyonce: I wish you could listen to her songs without knowing that SHE sings them because then you wouldn't concentrate on hating her for "kicking your favourite, LeToya, out of DC" or anything like that but you could actually understand why she's so amazing!… Expand
  51. yonce
    Dec 13, 2013
    9
    Really great album. It shows how diverse she truly is. She is able to belt a ballad and show restraint in more vulnerable songs. She can rap and dance, looking great doing it. As a whole, Bey's best album to date. I particularly love 'Yonce/Partition and Superpower.
  52. beycoz
    Dec 13, 2013
    10
    Beyoncé did the best album of the year! All the people say: "This is the year of Miley" "Year of Katy" "Year of Gaga" but in the final the queen came and put the others down with a perfect art. I'm so proud!
  53. Sedermoula
    Dec 13, 2013
    10
    A great album you can really see her growth as an artist, not to mention the amazing beats. Each track is killer 10/10. I really appreciate the accompanying videos shot all over the world it allows you to see the vision she had for each track, it's such an artistic journey from start to finish.
  54. mawpeterson
    Dec 13, 2013
    10
    One word: Growth. Beyoncé really surprised me on this record. More lyrical depth than any of her previous works, seamless production despite working across different months, spaces and teams. Definitely worth the listen.
  55. Jonatha_souza
    Dec 14, 2013
    10
    O album perfeito quem ta dando votos negativos são os britfã desesperados amo os desepsero das mudas
    album da beyoncé perfeito urban conceitual como diz os muda fã e ja chegou quebrando records sem prometer nada
  56. marsto
    Dec 14, 2013
    10
    beyonce rise up musically, artistically, visually. Beyoncé is her best cohesive album to date.
    not to mention game changing visuall offer for each tracks bring new feels and energy.
  57. carlota
    Dec 14, 2013
    10
    ITS LEGENDARY EVERYONE SHOULD BUY IT
    it will have influence on your life in the future, and thats whats so magical!! amazing job

    queen of music beyonce
  58. wbaldaque
    Dec 14, 2013
    10
    This album shows how much power there is in Mrs. Carter.
    Engaging, emotional and exciting Beyoncé rises to another level expanding and filling our souls.
  59. ralrushaid
    Dec 14, 2013
    10
    Beyoncé never fails to impress. She cares about the album as a whole she doesn't care about singles and the money she gets, however, she wants us to enjoy the art behind the music, she wants us to see it rather than only hear it. This album GENIUS. By far album of the year showing Beyoncé taking risks, showcasing her vocal abilities and most of all her creativity. I really hope peopleBeyoncé never fails to impress. She cares about the album as a whole she doesn't care about singles and the money she gets, however, she wants us to enjoy the art behind the music, she wants us to see it rather than only hear it. This album GENIUS. By far album of the year showing Beyoncé taking risks, showcasing her vocal abilities and most of all her creativity. I really hope people see the art behind this and listen to the whole album before judging the music and Beyoncé.… Expand
  60. ianBK4
    Dec 15, 2013
    10
    Beyoncé's fifth studio album is by miles her best effort, this album is a MASTERPIECE, the best album I ever heard, nothing comes close. She has clearly outdone herself and she is in her own lane.
  61. Elton
    Dec 17, 2013
    10
    O álbum mostra um lado mais intimista da cantora, que deixou bem claro que o trabalho foi feito para os fãs, tem vocais belíssimos e sem falar que ela voltou ao lindo R&B de dangerously in Love
  62. Yaaugusto
    Dec 13, 2015
    10
    Sem dúvida alguma, esse é um dos melhores trabalhos de Beyoncé. Espero que seu próximo álbum, seja tão bom quanto esse, e que ela consiga novamente envolver seus fãs, com um trabalho tão íntimo quanto esse.

    2 YEARS OF BEYONCE
  63. pauloravi
    Dec 18, 2013
    10
    Masterpiece that you can hear! Absolutely an amazing album. Words cannot describe how much the lyrics means to everybody. Beyoncé talks about love, family, nation's problem. Lovely. Amazing. Great job.
  64. Pitionchid
    Jun 23, 2014
    9
    Bee's historical album!
    and it's amazing that she tried colorful music and MV.
    especially I love "Ghost", "XO", "Mine", "Haunted", "Yonce" and so on...
    absolutely her revolutionary album!!!
  65. nininho_silva
    Dec 19, 2013
    10
    No announcement. No single. No hype. No nothing. Just her name, her talent, her vision, her music, her voice. Today will be seen as an historic day, mark my words.
    Back to this project. Incredible productions, amazing vocals, "Beyoncé" is such a great record. And on top of that, you can actually SEE what the artist meant and wanted to share. Double experience.
  66. DaPerfectGent
    Dec 20, 2013
    10
    In my opinion, this is her best album. It shows a side that many other mainstream artists aren't showing. She clearly didn't make this for radio. It is a very cohesive album. Proud of her.
  67. Diskette
    Dec 22, 2013
    2
    I am not a hater, in fact I am a fan of Beyoncé since the beginning but I am sorry this album is so over rated There is no smash hit on it Not one single will make this album sell and I doubt it will sell more than her previous albums. 4 did not have a smash hit. Maybe End of Time would have been one but hey she never released it. 4 was her least sold album. This one, being veryI am not a hater, in fact I am a fan of Beyoncé since the beginning but I am sorry this album is so over rated There is no smash hit on it Not one single will make this album sell and I doubt it will sell more than her previous albums. 4 did not have a smash hit. Maybe End of Time would have been one but hey she never released it. 4 was her least sold album. This one, being very different from 4, is the same no smash hit, just a VERY FEW okay songs. She teased us with Grown Woman and Standing on the Sun which were very promising but they were wasted, leaked, never released and in the end scrapped from the album.

    Making a visual album is visionary and a first from a star of this magnitude but the videos themselves are overall boring. Pretty Hurts, Blow, Haunted, Xo and Heaven are good videos but the rest is garbage, vacation videos, street and hookers videos This album and especially the videos are over sexualized. Beyoncé's always been a classy diva. She never had to show her ass to succeed and that is what made her better than star skanks like Rihanna or Miley who show their asses on a daily basis. This is beneath Beyoncé. Why does she feel threatened by those skanks She was aggressive towards them in BOW DOWN and that is why people reacted so badly to the song Beyoncé, the classy Queen, can't and shouldn't be affected by them and this attitude isn't like the Beyoncé we came to know and love throughout her long and successful career. If feel like she is loosing herself and I am scared for the future.    … Expand
  68. JulianaFelix
    Dec 22, 2013
    6
    O álbum me surpreendeu, mas não da forma avassaladora como ao público em geral. As tracks são de qualidade indiscutível, o trabalho da Beyoncé com certeza amadureceu, mas ainda não o considero o melhor.
  69. BugMaster
    Dec 24, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. And Beyoncé's nothing surprises us with his new job, I thought that Friday the 13th would be just another "scary", but saw not. Beyoncé knows what he does, and does well. BEYONCE is there!… Expand
  70. Yonce_
    Dec 26, 2013
    10
    The album is cohesive without songs sounding the same. Beyoncé has managed to record an album that appeals to the masses without sounding like anything else mainstream. Her voice hasn't sounded better than it does on this album. It's a great body of work that shows off her voice brilliantly and we hear her voice differently to how we have in the past. The videos add to the listeningThe album is cohesive without songs sounding the same. Beyoncé has managed to record an album that appeals to the masses without sounding like anything else mainstream. Her voice hasn't sounded better than it does on this album. It's a great body of work that shows off her voice brilliantly and we hear her voice differently to how we have in the past. The videos add to the listening experience by telling the story that Beyoncé felt while recording each song.… Expand
  71. QueenTeas
    Dec 27, 2013
    2
    Now that that faux shock has worn off, this album is garbage. Luckily, with the top producers like The Dream, Timbaland, Pharell, etc. It's easy to overshadow the mediocrity and nursery rhymed lyrics, but it's still not enough to make this a solid album. Beyonce is not one of those artists known for originality, being innovative, or creative, and while I'll give credit that she tried to doNow that that faux shock has worn off, this album is garbage. Luckily, with the top producers like The Dream, Timbaland, Pharell, etc. It's easy to overshadow the mediocrity and nursery rhymed lyrics, but it's still not enough to make this a solid album. Beyonce is not one of those artists known for originality, being innovative, or creative, and while I'll give credit that she tried to do something different, this is a no go. The novelty has definitely worn off, and won't be one of those albums that'll be played for years to come. But hey, since this generation is obsessed with videos, I guess you can look forward to that. Because clearly the material isn't good enough to stand on its own without visual imagery.… Expand
  72. BeyBey
    Jan 5, 2014
    10
    This album is everything! From her soul raising voice to her "Whitney" esque pop voice, She is arugably the most talented artist alive. She has the abilities to not only sillhouette Michael Jackson but bring back the presence of Michael and Tina and Whitney, all in one Power Phoenomenon. True Superstar! True Legend!
  73. FelipeCarniel
    Jan 6, 2014
    10
    O álbum visual que mudou o jogo! Beyoncé está de volta e novamente se reinventando. Com uma estratégia incrível de focar apenas na arte que fazer música, ela trouxe ao auge novamente uma reinvenção e inovação de si mesma. Um álbum pra não pular uma música se quer. Essa obra prima permeia diversas formas de arte que caminham desde a simplicidade pop até a complexidade musical R&B, comO álbum visual que mudou o jogo! Beyoncé está de volta e novamente se reinventando. Com uma estratégia incrível de focar apenas na arte que fazer música, ela trouxe ao auge novamente uma reinvenção e inovação de si mesma. Um álbum pra não pular uma música se quer. Essa obra prima permeia diversas formas de arte que caminham desde a simplicidade pop até a complexidade musical R&B, com vocais perfeitos e muita história pra contar. Um álbum íntimo e pessoal, que ao mesmo tempo mostra as diversas faces de uma mulher adulta, que já não precisa provar nada a ninguém. Sem dúvidas, o melhor álbum da cantora.… Expand
  74. beeyonceknight
    Jan 6, 2014
    10
    This album offers so much variety sonically and thematically. It showcases Beyonce's maturity as an artist and talks about very personal matters on the album (regarding sexuality, femininity, and motherhood). Each song is artistically crafted and not created for radio purposes.
  75. KevinLorenzo
    Jan 6, 2014
    10
    Beyoncé's fifth Studio album is her best yet. I was excited to hear the direction her music would go in after becoming a mother and I'm glad it''s a good one. She manages to stay true to the Beyoncé' we all know and love while still revealing sides to her that we have never seen. There is something for everyone here. Fans, Stans and even non-fans can appreciate this body of work. BeyondBeyoncé's fifth Studio album is her best yet. I was excited to hear the direction her music would go in after becoming a mother and I'm glad it''s a good one. She manages to stay true to the Beyoncé' we all know and love while still revealing sides to her that we have never seen. There is something for everyone here. Fans, Stans and even non-fans can appreciate this body of work. Beyond the hype of the surprise release, there is some great music here. Congratulations to Beyoncé' for taking a risk and not being afraid to focus on the ALBUM again.… Expand
  76. iammrtyn
    Jan 9, 2014
    10
    This album really has all the great things of Beyoncé in it. Creativity, maturity and honesty are the keywords of this album. This album includes strong pop ballads as Pretty Hurts, urban/hiphop songs such as ***Flawless and strong R&B midtempoes as Partition, Haunted and Drunk In Love. XO as the lead single is a really smart choice, because it's kind of an anthem. It's a very great loveThis album really has all the great things of Beyoncé in it. Creativity, maturity and honesty are the keywords of this album. This album includes strong pop ballads as Pretty Hurts, urban/hiphop songs such as ***Flawless and strong R&B midtempoes as Partition, Haunted and Drunk In Love. XO as the lead single is a really smart choice, because it's kind of an anthem. It's a very great love song. Beyoncé really shows her voice and talent in this album and she knows how to keep on being the best one in the game.… Expand
  77. Creata
    Jan 9, 2014
    10
    Beyonce at her core has proven to be a student of music, particularly of the R and B genre, but with each album she has experimented with other flavors. This album amazingly brings so many sounds together while still sounding like one. Clearly Beyonce's best album by far, and arguably the best mainstream album in the last decade. Impeccable production, unique song structures, mindBeyonce at her core has proven to be a student of music, particularly of the R and B genre, but with each album she has experimented with other flavors. This album amazingly brings so many sounds together while still sounding like one. Clearly Beyonce's best album by far, and arguably the best mainstream album in the last decade. Impeccable production, unique song structures, mind blowing vocals, boundary pushing content, everything you want and more from a cultural blockbuster.… Expand
  78. yonceflawless
    Jan 12, 2014
    10
    Beyoncé pegou a todos de surpresa e isso só prova mais ainda que ela é maravilhosa em tudo que faz.Creio que esse álbum visual mudou os conceitos da música,ela surpreende a cada uma delas.Os videos deram ainda mais enfase,o que ficou melhor ainda de entender as músicas.O mundo da música já pode considerar uma nova rainha:Beyoncé!!!
  79. gamblebo1
    Jan 19, 2014
    10
    I think this is Beyonce best work to date! The level of musicality, topics she discusses and vocal maturity really shows us why she is one of the best in the music industry.
  80. Isaac_Knowles
    Feb 26, 2014
    10
    Ótimo CD/DVD, nada se compara aos lançados em 2013!
    PERFEIÇÃO, é a palavra que define completamente esse álbum!
    Beyoncé é ótima em tudo que cria/lança!
  81. laraD
    Mar 15, 2014
    10
    Beyonce, once again, changed the music industry. Her album tells a story, a story of a woman who is not afraid to show all sides of her. You can't decide weather you would listen to it or watch it. It's a combination of pure talent and hard work. She started a new era of music. There is a reason Beyonce is called a Queen, and her "visual album" proves why she is on top for the past 15Beyonce, once again, changed the music industry. Her album tells a story, a story of a woman who is not afraid to show all sides of her. You can't decide weather you would listen to it or watch it. It's a combination of pure talent and hard work. She started a new era of music. There is a reason Beyonce is called a Queen, and her "visual album" proves why she is on top for the past 15 years and will remain to sit on HER throne.… Expand
  82. catherinef
    Aug 25, 2014
    10
    She really surprising. Compositions, vocals, melodies ... Everything is amazing! I think "perfect" is correct for this artwork term. BEYONCE Undoubtedly the best album of 2013 and one of the best of recent times.
  83. sjs626
    Feb 10, 2015
    2
    To say this album is ground breaking is far from the truth. Mixing electronic beats with R&B and overtly audible auto-tuned vocals its the same crap that basting on every radio and in every club for past several years. The vast majority of songs on this album all sound the same: shallow lyrics over extremely processed beats; I could barely make it through the entire album as the I keptTo say this album is ground breaking is far from the truth. Mixing electronic beats with R&B and overtly audible auto-tuned vocals its the same crap that basting on every radio and in every club for past several years. The vast majority of songs on this album all sound the same: shallow lyrics over extremely processed beats; I could barely make it through the entire album as the I kept hearing the same chords and vocal licks over and over again with a poor use and understanding of dynamics. I regret the time I wasted listening to this garbage.… Expand
  84. luanpinetree
    Apr 24, 2016
    10
    A very complete album, with political and social nature very large, beyond all intelligence and genius involved in this disc comes several taboos such as "sex" in a relaxed way.
  85. Beyhiveboss
    Feb 18, 2018
    10
    Wow, The Queen has dropped a total game-changer back then. Visuals are BEYutiful and She sounds like an angel
  86. Samyonce
    Apr 23, 2019
    10
    Self titled is a game-changing masterpiece. The album experiments with varying facets of Beyoncé the woman. This album follows the singer on her journey to self-discovery through new motherhood and marriage. She allows listeners a glimpse into her love and sex life with songs like partition and jealous. She then switches her tempo and deals with loss on heaven and tackles self-esteemSelf titled is a game-changing masterpiece. The album experiments with varying facets of Beyoncé the woman. This album follows the singer on her journey to self-discovery through new motherhood and marriage. She allows listeners a glimpse into her love and sex life with songs like partition and jealous. She then switches her tempo and deals with loss on heaven and tackles self-esteem issues on pretty hurts. The album was really well rounded.… Expand
  87. Flawlessbkg
    Jul 26, 2020
    0
    Beyoncé's self titled fifth studio album comes as a big surprise at a much needed time in music. This album is in a way a re-introduction (even to her hardcore fan base) to the new grown woman we now know as Beyoncé. Good luck with trying to categorize or label this album in one specific genre. It is however, hands down her best effort as of yet. Sonically this album is a masterpiece and…Beyoncé's self titled fifth studio album comes as a big surprise at a much needed time in music. This album is in a way a re-introduction (even to her hardcore fan base) to the new grown woman we now know as Beyoncé. Good luck with trying to categorize or label this album in one specific genre. It is however, hands down her best effort as of yet. Sonically this album is a masterpiece and… Expand… Expand
  88. tbstrpmn
    Mar 24, 2020
    10
    my favourite beyoncé album, tied with lemonade! it’s so great and made her an indefinite icon. the greatest entertainer of all time.
  89. bluesclues444
    Jul 25, 2020
    10
    History making album, sold 80k in three hours. No ones doing it like her! Beyoncé is an perfect experimental Body of work that aged like fine wine.
  90. Beyonceisking
    Jul 25, 2020
    10
    A classic I still listen to these songs separate or as a whole within the album.
  91. mrwhitley1
    Jul 31, 2020
    10
    Excellence, Truly Great Work By Queen Bey!!!
    The Industry trying to limit Her access, knowing it’s what they can’t handle. Beyoncé Owns the Industry
  92. anaalameda
    Aug 5, 2020
    10
    Beyonce is definitely a woman who truly knows who she is and is not afraid to take charge. Her self titled "Visionary Album" "Beyonce" is an instant masterpiece, showcasing her divine talent and vocal prowess. She needs no gimmick and a whole team of publicity, all she needed is to put her name and everyone take notice. The album is simple with so much soul and passion.
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Awards & Rankings

35
#35 Best Album of 2013
4
#4 Most Discussed Album of 2013
1
#1 Most Shared Album of 2013

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
85

Universal acclaim - based on 34 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 32 out of 34
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 34
  3. Negative: 0 out of 34
  1. Sputnikmusic
    Feb 14, 2014
    90
    At its dizzying zenith, Beyoncé is a loaded fusion of generosity and self-empowerment. or perhaps, more accurately, it finds self-empowerment in generosity.
    Read full review
  2. Mojo
    Feb 11, 2014
    60
    It's this continued need to feed her multi-platinum beast that stops the album from being the post-modern wheeze it could have been. [Mar 2014, p.94]
  3. The 405
    Jan 23, 2014
    90
    Though there are a million details about BEYONCÉ to examine--from the release strategy to the visual aspect and more--the strongest ideas are still found solely in the music. She addresses topics like beauty, body image, miscarriages, jealousy, sexuality, marriage, motherhood and self-worth.
    Read full review
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