Author: Yvette Ndlovu
To all those hating on Queen Bee’s epic single “Formation,” you can kindly take several seats. Unexpectedly released just one day before her performance at this year’s Super Bowl, “Formation” is the crowning jewel of Beyoncé’s feminist evolution, heralded by earlier revolutionary anthems like “Flawless” and “Partition”. But Beyoncé has always championed self-love for all shapes and curves and encouraged others to rise above hate. So what makes this banger different? Why is “Formation” such a controversial show-stopper, and why should every Cornellian have it on repeat?
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1. It’s unapologetically Feminist
The thing about art–and yes, the “Formation” video is visual art–is that it warrants different interpretations. The message I take away from “Formation” is one of pure empowerment. It’s exactly what I need to kick start my snowy mornings up the slope. It is clear from the lyrics that “Formation” is a revolutionary call for women to assert their independence and continue their hustle. I mean, she does repeat, “Ok ladies now let’s get in formation…slay or you’ll get eliminated.” Can someone shout Girl Power?
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2. It unapologetically celebrates feminine strength
What I love most about “Formation” is that it reverses gender roles. Some notable moments are when she talks about taking her man to “Red Lobster” and “on a flight on my chopper,” alluding to women’s sexual liberation and financial autonomy. Isn’t that why we are here on the Hill getting those 4.0s (or trying to)? Gone are the days where women sit around knitting mittens, waiting to be taken out and shown the world by some billionaire in a shining limousine. It’s 2016. Ever wondered why we think of Queen Bee as Beyoncé Knowles and not Mrs. Carter? It’s because with or without Jay Z, she would still be on top of the food chain.
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3. It’s unapologetically black
Not only does “Formation” touch on feminism, but it also has serious implications for black beauty standards.
“I like my baby’s hair with baby hair and afros. I like my negro nose with Jackson Five nostrils.”
For a long time black females’ natural hair has been considered unprofessional, and black features such as thick lips and nostrils have been deemed ugly. It is believed that for this reason, Michael and Janet Jackson had nose jobs to straighten their so-called “negro noses.” Beyoncé denounces this beauty standard by calling attention to Michael Jackson’s nose before he had a nose job, when he was still in Jackson Five. This promotes self love, and by featuring her daughter owning her black features Beyoncé sets a new standard for the next generation of black women: be proud of who you are and don’t change to fit someone else’s version of beauty.
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“Formation” pioneers black and female pride, and what’s not to love about people loving themselves? Queen Bey shows us that you are more than enough. Sometimes in this intense Ivy environment, you need a reminder that you are more than enough. So when it’s 8:55AM and you have five minutes to get from your dorm to the Arts Quad, let “Formation” give you strength and confidence to slay those morning classes.
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This Yvette girl is absolutely brilliant like her take on Beyoncés hits has really opened my eyes, I never would have seen them this way . I can’t wait for her to post more articles (excited)