Not only did it secure the No. 1 spot on a list of 100 music videos ranked by a magazine, but it also pushed the way for other iconic music videos, including MJ’s “Billie Jean,” Prince’s “Kiss.”
The video features Beyoncé’s striking several visuals, including the 39-year-old laying on top of a sinking police car in a rundown part of New Orleans and a wall with the words “stop shooting us” that was painted on a wall.
Many tried to say the video was anti-police, but the singer denounced those accusations. “I’m an artist, and I think the most powerful art is usually misunderstood,” the mother of three told Elle in April 2016. “But anyone who perceives my message as anti-police is completely mistaken. I have so much admiration and respect for officers and the families of officers who sacrifice themselves to keep us safe.”
As for police brutality, Beyoncé says the music video “formation” was a message.
“But let’s be clear: I am against police brutality and injustice. Those are two separate things,” she stated.
