Beyonce’s “Run the World (Girls)”: The Queen Is Back??? [VIDEO]

After mixed reviews on its musical quality, the video for “Run the World (Girls)” is here. For a time, Shawn Carter’s better half had been the unrivaled queen of pop music. But in the three years since her last album (I Am… Sasha Fierce), artists like Lady Gaga and Rihanna have taken their own stardom to higher levels. So with her “throne” in question, does Beyonce deliver with her latest video?

Unlike some other genres, videos are still highly important in pop music. They can detract or elevate a song in the public’s eyes. Luckily for Beyonce, she’s always been a natural showman/entertainer. There’s nothing static when she’s on the camera; her presence is magnetic. Here she takes a page out of Janet Jackson’s battle of the sexes/dance-off formula. The routines aren’t as involved as prime Janet’s, but that is taken care of by adding other eye-catching and random images like Beyonce with chained hyenas. You’ll also notice some subtle Gaga influences in Beyonce and her dancer’s accessories (hats, shoes).

Overall, the video works. The mix of dancing and solo images are enough to keep you entertained for the roughly five-minute piece. And there’s even some rauchy but ultimately PG-13 moments for the guys like Beyonce gyrating in the sand. For those unconvinced, Beyonce last LP posted nine (!) singles, so it’s safe to assume Ms. Carter is just getting started.