Formation facts

Question 1

Artist

Answer 1

Beyonce

Question 2

Year

Answer 2

2016

Question 3

Genre

Answer 3

Trap/bounce

Question 4

Produced

Answer 4

Beyonce, Mike Will Made It

Question 5

Distributed/label

Answer 5

Parkwood entertainment

Question 6

Key aspect 1 - major issues

Answer 6

The music video offers a wealth of (sometimes conflicting/contradictory) messages and possible meanings. Many of the references in the video require an awareness of issues and events (such as the flooding in New Orleans and racial tension in America).

Question 7

Key aspect 2 - costume

Answer 7

The use of costume is interesting. Antebellum dresses which seem to reference slavery contrast heavily with stereotypical “pop” signifiers such as tight-fitting/revealing costume in some of the dance sections

Question 8

Key aspect 3 -Performance

Answer 8

Beyoncé’s performance shifts from moments of aggression such as obscene gestures with her fingers to more culturally recognisable dance routines that seem less loaded with political or social messages.

Question 9

Representations of femininity

Answer 9

For example, the dance sections where she wears short/tight or revealing outfits as well as some of the sexualised lyrics. This might be balanced by looking again at her construction as a strong, powerful figure.