Ms. B

Her new video. I'm already hooked:

I'm not sure whether it's Beyonce's newly heightened confidence, sex-appeal or direct approach, but I cannot get enough of this song.

Although modesty and composition are sort-after factors to anyone's character, with me, when it comes to Beyonce I loose all clarity, focus and sense... I am a true fan.

My boyfriend says I'm obsessed, and I could well be.

It all began at the age of fourteen, when some testosterone-ridden lad had broken my unexperienced heart. I felt like the world had ended, and the only thing I could bare to do was listen to music.

Photo by melika @ Flickr

Destiny's Child and their album The Writing's On The Wall (1999) was my first choice, and was eventually what dragged my sorry self out of bed and forcefully yet empathically told me to GET A GRIP.

I rebounded soon after the break-up, although I'm happy to say the fast-paced relationship is still going strong. Am I talking about a new boyfriend you might ask? No.

Yes it's cringey, but totally true to say that after hearing the girl group's second album, I fell in love with the straight-talking lyrics and hypnotic dance moves that belonged to Miss Beyonce Knowles. Although the other two band members' individual talents are often unfairly forgotten in comparison, I - who was a young, impressionable teen at the time - identified more with Beyonce then the others, and am proud to say I've been a devoted fan ever since.

Photo by mr azed @ Flickr

Wince all you want, but it's difficult to explain just how much I enjoy this woman's music, viewing her as not only an extraordinarily talented artist but an enlivening human being. Her professional work ethic, as well as her unrivaled determination and drive in all aspects of her career, makes Beyonce an unquestionably inspiring person. Her music is uplifting, raw and holds no pretenses, which is why I believe it appeals to such a huge number of people.

The girls and I outside the o2

My friends and I were lucky enough to go and see her during her I am... World tour (2009). I can safely say they would agree it was a truly breathtaking night, with Beyonce's performance worthy of every penny we spent (£120 per ticket)! Her energy was what amazed me most, with complex dance routines and powerful vocals throughout.

Each song sounded better then on any of her CDs I'd collected over the years, and her flawless presentation and engagement with the audience made the night feel well worth the money. The evening highlighted where her God-given talent lies among all the acting, fashion-lines, modelling and other career ventures - this woman can put on a damn-good show, and belt out tunes to match... A true performer.