Beyonce 'Bow Down' Song Stirs Controversy

By Emma Koonse, Christian Post Reporter Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Beyonce released her first new song since 2011 on Sunday and fans have shared strong reactions to the latest work.

"Bow Down / I Been On" features the return of Beyonce as her alter ego- Sasha Fierce, and while the song exhibits Bey's impressive vocals, the lyrics have fans talking.

The charged lyrics include profanity and seem to reflect on the past, while also addressing critics. "Bow Down" starts with the lyrics:

"I know when you were little girls / You dreamt of being in my world / Don't forget it / Don't forget it, respect that, bow down."

Beyonce also used the new song to defend her status as a married woman. The singer has been married to Jay-Z since 2008 and the couples share one daughter. The lyric is as follows:

"I took some time to live my life / But don't think I'm just his little wife / Don't get it twisted, get it twisted / This is my / bow down."

While it is uncertain where the song will be found later, listeners have posted mixed reactions to "Bow Down," including fellow singer Keyshia Cole.

"Can't stand when people all self-righteous when it's convenient it makes them look good," Cole posted to Twitter on Monday. "But can still talk s--- when convenient."

The singer later added, "First 'Women need to Stick together' now b------ better Bow. Smh. But it's all G! Chicks stay shooting the s---."

Alternately, Beyonce fans defended the Grammy Award-winning singer's new song.

"I don't understand the controversy with 'Bow Down,'" started one Twitter user. "Bey was just having a little FUN. The song wasn't specially regarded to ANYONE."

Jasmine added, "You're supposed to sing a long to Beyonce's Bow Down. Not feel like she's telling you specifically to bow down. Get some self esteem."

Listen to Beyonce's "Bow Down" here (WARNING: Adult language and themes).