Album: 4

Introduction
"4" is the fourth studio album by American singer Beyoncé Knowles, launched on June 24, 2011, through Columbia Records and Parkwood Entertainment. The album marks a departure from the pop and R&B noise of her previous 3 albums in favor of a more eclectic mix of genres, that include funk, soul, electro-pop, and African beats. With "4", Beyoncé looked for to showcase her deeper artistic growth and pay homage to her musical influences.

Background and Production
In 2009, Beyoncé took a break from her music profession to focus on her performing and individual life. This hiatus allowed her to uncover her love for various music categories, particularly African music, which she checked out throughout her journeys. Furthermore, she was influenced by the works of Fela Kuti, Adele, and Diana Ross.

The recording process for "4" began in 2010 and occurred in different places, including New York City, London, and Sydney. Beyoncé worked with a wide range of manufacturers and songwriters, such as Kanye West, The-Dream, Tricky Stewart, and Shea Taylor. She also collaborated with up-and-coming producers, such as Labrinth and Switch.

Beyoncé chose to deal with fewer guest artists on "4" and focused on providing a more cohesive and personal album. She co-wrote and co-produced each track, allowing her to customize the album to her vision and experiences.

Music and Lyrics
"4" showcases Beyoncé's vocal expertise and is a testimony to her growth as an artist. The album integrates aspects of pop, R&B, soul, funk, and African beats, showing her diverse musical impacts.

The album opens with "1 +1", a power ballad that highlights the depth of Beyoncé's vocal range. Next, "I Care" includes a mix of electro-pop and R&B, while "I Miss You" is a minimalistic ballad that informs the story of longing for a lost love.

One of the album's most significant tracks is "Run the World (Girls)", an anthem of female empowerment that samples Major Lazer's "Pon de Floor". The tune showcases a more aggressive side of Beyoncé and embraces a dancehall noise.

"Best Thing I Never Had" is a mid-tempo R&B ballad about overcoming a stopped working relationship and finding strength in oneself. On the other hand, "Party" is a throwback to 1980s funk and includes guest looks by André 3000 and Kanye West.

"Rather Die Young", "Start Over", and "Love on Top" are heartfelt ballads that explore styles of love, dedication, and individual development. The album closes with "End of Time", an uptempo track that includes African beats and brass instrumentation.

Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "4" got generally positive reviews from critics, who praised Beyoncé's vocal capabilities and the cohesive nature of the album. The album debuted at top on the Billboard 200 chart and was accredited platinum in the United States. "4" also spawned numerous successful singles, consisting of "Run the World (Girls)", "Best Thing I Never Had", "Party", and "Love on Top".

"4" was chosen for a number of awards, consisting of Best Pop Vocal Album and Best Traditional R&B Performance at the 54th Annual Grammy Awards in 2012. The album also won the prestigious Soul Train Music Award for Album of the Year in 2011.

In retrospection, "4" is an essential album in Beyoncé's career, showcasing her growth as an artist and versatility in taking on numerous music categories. The album's styles of female empowerment, love, and personal development continue to resonate with listeners, strengthening Beyoncé's status as a pop icon.