I can’t believe it’s been two years since Beyonce dropped “Lemonade”. Twelve tracks and a mini-documentary helped solidify Bey as one of the greatest entertainers of my lifetime. I’m not apart of the Beyhive (stan culture is weird to me) but I’m maybe like one or two levels down on the fandom chart. “Formation” was the first single from the album. The music video gave us imagery that made us all say “hell yes- enough is enough”. The sinking patrol car, the little Black boy dancing in front of armed police officers. It was a big “F U” to critics who claimed that Beyonce wasn’t Black enough. On the contrary, for me, it was like seeing the Bat Signal. One of my favorite performers was being apologetically Black. Then came the Super Bowl performance. Wig. Snatched.
Lemonade means a lot of things to a lot of people. Here are 12 lyrics that express what the album means to me.
NEVER FORCE IT
Okay, so this one isn’t technically a lyric, but it’s from a skit on the visual album. Around this time last year, I was going through a really rough break up. After some time, I realized that I was partially to blame for my own pain. I was trying to force a situation that I knew wasn’t for me. Was it out of complacency? A little. Am I glad I dodged that bullet? Absolutely. Every time I hear this skit I think about that time in my life.
TRUST YOUR INTUITION
Whew. We’ve been told this since we were kids but for some reason, we don’t always listen- even as adults. In the past 16 months I’ve really learned to listen to my natural instincts. If it doesn’t feel right, I won’t even waste my time.
ENJOY YOUR OWN COMPANY
Let’s be honest, I could quote this entire song. Especially the opening verse. But when I hear “Don’t Hurt Yourself”, this line stands out. I’m learning to truly enjoy my own everything: spending my own money, taking myself on dates, laughing at my own jokes.
Sydnei is really a cool ass person.
LIFE
Another quote from the mini-documentary. Self explanatory!
DISCIPLINE
I prefer to spend money on experiences versus clothes or gadgets. This is big for me. I’m learning not to give too much attention to things that I’ll will physically outgrow, or things that will break or things that will go out of style. My savings account appreciates it.
TOUGH LOVE
I’ve always been a daddy’s girl. It’s been so interesting to look back and see how much our relationship has evolved over the years. When I listen to this line, I picture my dad looking me straight in the eye and telling me “do no harm, but take no crap”.
TENACITY
21 year old Sydnei would’ve crumbled under present circumstances. But I’ve come way too far and accomplished so much. I’m learning to let things roll off. Thick skin and laser focus.
Fun fact, Ingrid, the songwriter wrote “Love Drought about her personal struggles in the industry. Watch her interview here.
REALITY CHECK
Another one that cut deep. I’m learning to live without expectations. I’ll let you know how that’s working out for me.
KEEP IT PUSHING
Sometimes you literally have to press “forward.
Lol just kidding. But I won’t flex like this is one of my faves. I’ve probably heard it all the way through 3 times in two years. But I like this lyric.
PURPOSE
God sends us signs and it’s up to us to take action. I’ve seen the repercussions of ignoring Divine Intervention and I promise you this, it won’t happen again.
KNOW YOUR WORTH
Self explanatory. Don’t let anyone play you!
AFFIRMATIONS
This is taped on my mirror. Everything that I have ever wanted is waiting for me to come claim it. It’s already mine. You should have that same attitude!
