I’ve only ever heard the deluxe, didn’t even realize it was different! It’s funny, because that’s the version I’m used to the real version seems strange to me. Love on Top makes way more sense as an opener than 1+1, but it makes sense I think that when I’ve been listening like that for a decade
I just remember being so into the build in the original, how it’s more mellow at the front and more upbeat in the back, especially with “Run the World” as the closer. Super satisfying flow that’s lost by putting some of those singles at the beginning and “I Was Here” at the end (instead of the penultimate track).
I actively dislike country music and only like a smattering of Beyoncé tunes but both of these songs have absolutely floored me. This is the last reaction I thought I would have had and I am glad to be surprised! It’s country melodies and lyrics sung with an R&B flair and it just WORKS. Not sure any other established artist could pull this off.
holding out for a vinyl boxset copy similar to the retail version of RENAISSANCE, but i'm here for this. let's also hope that CD bonus track makes its way onto digital/streaming platforms (or even the vinyl).
Still not sure how to feel about this. It feels almost a bit like a gimmick. TBH, I’d much rather get another house-influenced record again.
Looks like she’s referencing the CMA’s performance where she got a lot of dumb hate as the motivation for making this album.