49. I Am...Sasha Fierce by Beyonce (CD)

I AM…SASHA FIERCE by Beyonce (Columbia, 2008)

GENRE: R&B / Pop

HONORS: Grammy Award for Best Contemporary R&B Album, Grammy Nomination for Album of the Year

REVIEW:

With Beyonce’s third studio album, eleven tracks are divided between two discs, representing the two sides to Beyonce’s personality.  The first disc, labeled I Am…, contains six slow and mid-tempo songs, showcasing Beyonce’s personal side.  Songs like “If I Were a Boy” and “Halo” represent the disc’s more mainstream, adult-contemporary feel, while also highlighting the serious and introspective elements of Beyonce’s true personality.  With the second disc, Sasha Fierce, Beyonce formally introduces the alter-ego that she becomes on stage, shifting to up-tempo dance songs.  The opening song on the disc, “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It),” is a perfect example of the fun, aggressive personality that encapsulates Beyonce’s celebrity image.  Beyonce has grown with this album by incorporating several different styles of music and allowing listeners to experience the more intimate side of her, as well.

OPINION:

This album contains songs that will appeal to many pop and R&B fans.  The idea of splitting the album into two discs resulted in a bit of schizophrenia as listeners switch between discs, but there are still some really great songs on each.  The first disc holds a couple beautiful ballads that I absolutely loved, with “Halo” being my favorite.  Beyonce delivers the lyrics about an all-encompassing love with such conviction and the piano melody is perfect, making it one of those songs that I can listen to on repeat.  The second disc stays true to the style of music that has made Beyonce popular and it is sure to please her fans.  “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” has gone to take on a life of its own and it continues to be an extremely catchy song with a fun dance to go along with it.  The split between slow and up-tempo songs provides listeners with a collection of songs that they can choose from depending on their mood, but it leaves something to be desired as a complete album.

IDEAS:

This album could be included in a music-themed library program where tweens can learn some popular dances, including the “Single Ladies” dance.