RUN THE WORLD (GIRLS) ~ BEYONCE

"Run the World (Girls)" is a song performed by American recording artist Beyoncé Knowles. The song's title and lyrics comprise an unapologetically aggressive message towards female empowerment. "Run the World (Girls)" initially divided critics, most of whom complimented the song's sample and Knowles' aggressiveness while others criticized the song's musical direction. Several critics compared "Run the World (Girls)" to other singles released by Knowles with the same theme such as "Independent Women" (2000), "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" (2008), and "Diva" (2009), stating that "Run the World (Girls)" takes a more direct and assertive approach towards female empowerment. Knowles promoted the song with high profile live performances, notably at the 2011 Billboard Music Awards and on the French X Factor. Although her performance at the Billboard Music Awards was well received by critics, it ignited controversy surrounding the production, which bore visual similarities to a performance by Italian pop star Lorella Cuccarini in February 2010 at the 60th Sanremo Music Festival in Italy. The video received general acclaim from critics.