This Sunday sees Beyonce take the stage at the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards – not only to perform, but to also receive the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award.
The network have been hyping up what is bound to be another epic showing from King B. As such, as we anticipate her sure-fire show-stopper, That Grape Juice are counting down our Top 5 Beyonce Performances.
Given the sheer volume of superb showings, it wasn’t an easy task whittling down to such a humble number. Still, our picks await after the jump. Let us know if you agree below!
5) Baby Boy / Crazy In Love – MTV VMA 2003
Prior to setting sail on her solo journey, Bey had firmly established herself as a stage blazer in Destiny’s Child. However, this 2003 showing introduced the world to Sasha Fierce as we’ve come to know and love her. From the fearless intro, to the choreography, the wind and weave whips, this performance was all sorts of diva.
4) Listen – Oprah Winfrey Show 2006
Though renown for her captivating ability on stage, Mrs Carter is also able to shine with a light and a mic. Case in point this dynamite rendition of ‘Listen’. From our standpoint, there hasn’t been another performance of the track as epic as this – which is mind-blowing given that she had a cold when she delivered it (as she relayed in behind the scenes footage). The climatic end run is a vocal exclamation mark if we’ve ever heard one.
3) Single Ladies – MTV VMA 2009
As one of the 32-year-old’s signature hits, there have been countless performances of ‘Single Ladies’. However, none can rival the showmanship showcased during this showing. It was clear from the onset that Bey approached this as a competitive sport – almost as if she was duelling with her peers in the audience. Needless to say, she won. The ferocity, the fierceness, the extras, and the overall air of epic, this was everything.
2) Run The World (Girls) – Billboard Music Awards 2011
With all the accolades and achievements that are heaped on Beyonce comes a certain degree of expectation. More specifically, expectation of elevation. And oh did Queen B deliver with this explosive rendition of ‘Run The World (Girls)’. The precision required to pull off such an effects-heavy performance still leaves our jaws ajar – especially when considering that not only did the singer smash it, she did so while in the early stages of pregnancy with Blue Ivy.
1) Superbowl Medley
If ever there was a modern-day masterclass in how to command a stage, it was this 2013 ‘Superbowl Medley’. Much hyped, the 13-minute extravaganza exceeded expectation – which was naturally sky-high.
There have been many things written about this career-defining performance (a trend, we’re sure, will continue for years to come). Yet, for us, it simply combines everything we’ve come to love about Beyonce. The divadom, the dynamism, the precision, and the strive for performance perfection. It re-affirmed why Bey is a step ahead and a level above the Pop pack.
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