In 2003, the world couldn’t have been more ready for a Beyoncé Knowles breakout.Beyoncé’s group Destiny’s Child was one of the most successful groups of the late 90s and early 2000s, and she’d made her film debut the year prior, in the Austin Powers Sequel “Goldmember”, as well as contributing to its soundtrack.
By late 2002, it was clear that Beyoncé’s solo star was ready to shine with a feature on her at-the-time-rumored boyfriend Jay-Z’s hit “‘03 Bonnie & Clyde”. - it added some edge to Beyonce’s more polished R&B sound at the time, and it gave Jay-Z some serious mainstream airplay. The video was sultry, dangerous, and played up the pair’s undeniable chemistry. The Media were obsessed with the pair but couldn’t get official confirmation on their relationship status.
Originally slated for a 2002 release, Beyoncé's label wanted to ride the wave of success of fellow bandmate Kelly Rowland's 'Dilemma' before risking a Beyoncé release they didn't have a lead single for.
Beyonce kept recording through the delays and in sessions completed in early 2003 “Crazy in Love” was finally born. With blaring horns and a retro-soul vibe Beyoncé knew the Rich Harrison-produced track was for her, but what lyrics would truly make the song pop, and where would she find her inspiration?
Join Myles Galloway as he tells you the true story of Beyoncé & Jay Z's 'Crazy in Love' complete with unearthed footage from Queen Bey at the time.
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