Album artwork for 4 by Beyonce

Beyoncé was inspired to create a record with a basis in traditional rhythm and blues that stood apart from contemporary popular music. Her collaborations with songwriters and record producers Terius "The-Dream" Nash, Christopher "Tricky" Stewart, and Shea Taylor produced a mellower tone, developing diverse vocal styles and influences from funk, hip hop, and soul. Severing professional ties with father and manager Mathew Knowles, Beyoncé eschewed the music of her previous releases in favor of an intimate, personal album. 4‍ '​s lyrics emphasize monogamy, female empowerment and self-reflection, a result of Beyoncé considering a maturer message to contend artistic credibility. The album was praised by critics for its fusion of various genres and for Beyoncé's vocals; many publications included it on their year-end lists.

Beyonce

4

Sony
Album artwork for 4 by Beyonce
CD

$8.99

Released 12/27/2017Catalog Number

SNY542366.2

Learn more
Beyonce

4

Sony
Album artwork for 4 by Beyonce
CD

$8.99

Released 12/27/2017Catalog Number

SNY542366.2

Learn more

Beyoncé was inspired to create a record with a basis in traditional rhythm and blues that stood apart from contemporary popular music. Her collaborations with songwriters and record producers Terius "The-Dream" Nash, Christopher "Tricky" Stewart, and Shea Taylor produced a mellower tone, developing diverse vocal styles and influences from funk, hip hop, and soul. Severing professional ties with father and manager Mathew Knowles, Beyoncé eschewed the music of her previous releases in favor of an intimate, personal album. 4‍ '​s lyrics emphasize monogamy, female empowerment and self-reflection, a result of Beyoncé considering a maturer message to contend artistic credibility. The album was praised by critics for its fusion of various genres and for Beyoncé's vocals; many publications included it on their year-end lists.