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"Diva" was written and produced by [[Beyoncé]], [[Bangladesh (producer)|Shondrae "Bangladesh" Crawford]], and [[Sean Garrett]].<ref name="Booklet"/> According to an interview that [[Bangladesh (producer)|Bangladesh]] gave with ''[[Rap-Up]]'', the song was originally intended to be included on the track-listing of his own [[mixtape]]<ref name="mtv2"/> after choosing a female artist to contribute vocals to "Diva".<ref name="mtv2"/> However, he decided to play the song to American [[contemporary R&B|R&B]] singer [[Keyshia Cole]], who liked the [[Beat (music)|beat]], but not the whole track. She eventually declined to record the song, but later said she would sing the song, however, this time Beyoncé also wanted it for her then upcoming album.<ref name="rap9">{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2010/07/12/rap-up-tv-bangladesh-reinvents-kelly-rowland-and-r-kelly/ |title=Rap-Up TV: Bangladesh Reinvents Kelly Rowland And R. Kelly |date=2010-07-12 |accessdate=2010-12-10 |work=[[Rap-Up]] |publisher=Devin Lazerine}}</ref> Bangladesh ultimately gave "Diva" to Beyoncé and composed another song for Cole.<ref name="mtv2">{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1645208/20100805/bangladesh.jhtml |title=From Ludacris To Lil Wayne, Bangladesh Remembers His Best Beats |first=Shaheem |last=Reid |date=2010-08-06 |accessdate=2010-12-10 |publisher=[[MTV News]]. [[MTV Networks]]}}</ref> About one month after the release of ''[[I Am... Sasha Fierce]]'', American R&B singer [[Ciara]], who was working on her third studio album, ''[[Fantasy Ride]]'' (2009), remixed "Diva", which was supposed to be included on her ''Fantasy Ride Mixtape''.<ref name="rap6">{{cite web |url=http://www.rap-up.com/2008/12/27/new-music-ciara-diva-beyonce-cover/ |title=New Music: Ciara - "Diva" (Beyoncé Cover) |date=2008-12-27 |accessdate=2010-12-10 |work=Rap-Up |publisher=Devin Lazerine}}</ref>
"Diva" was written and produced by [[Beyoncé]], [[Bangladesh (producer)|Shondrae "Bangladesh" Crawford]], and [[Sean Garrett]].<ref name="Booklet"/> According to an interview that [[Bangladesh (producer)|Bangladesh]] gave with ''[[Rap-Up]]'', the song was originally intended to be included on the track-listing of his own [[mixtape]]<ref name="mtv2"/> after choosing a female artist to contribute vocals to "Diva".<ref name="mtv2"/> However, he decided to play the song to American [[contemporary R&B|R&B]] singer [[Keyshia Cole]], who liked the [[Beat (music)|beat]], but not the whole track. She eventually declined to record the song, but later said she would sing the song, however, this time Beyoncé also wanted it for her then upcoming album.<ref name="rap9">{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2010/07/12/rap-up-tv-bangladesh-reinvents-kelly-rowland-and-r-kelly/ |title=Rap-Up TV: Bangladesh Reinvents Kelly Rowland And R. Kelly |date=2010-07-12 |accessdate=2010-12-10 |work=[[Rap-Up]] |publisher=Devin Lazerine}}</ref> Bangladesh ultimately gave "Diva" to Beyoncé and composed another song for Cole.<ref name="mtv2">{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1645208/20100805/bangladesh.jhtml |title=From Ludacris To Lil Wayne, Bangladesh Remembers His Best Beats |first=Shaheem |last=Reid |date=2010-08-06 |accessdate=2010-12-10 |publisher=[[MTV News]]. [[MTV Networks]]}}</ref> About one month after the release of ''[[I Am... Sasha Fierce]]'', American R&B singer [[Ciara]], who was working on her third studio album, ''[[Fantasy Ride]]'' (2009), remixed "Diva", which was supposed to be included on her ''Fantasy Ride Mixtape''.<ref name="rap6">{{cite web |url=http://www.rap-up.com/2008/12/27/new-music-ciara-diva-beyonce-cover/ |title=New Music: Ciara - "Diva" (Beyoncé Cover) |date=2008-12-27 |accessdate=2010-12-10 |work=Rap-Up |publisher=Devin Lazerine}}</ref>


"[[Ego (Beyoncé song)|Ego]]" and "[[Halo (Beyoncé song)|Halo]]" were initially planned for simultaneous release in the US, following the 2008 dual [[lead single]]s "[[If I Were a Boy]]" and "[[Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)]]".<ref name="rap1">{{cite web |url=http://www.rap-up.com/2008/10/20/beyonces-i-am-second-singles-revealed/ |title=Beyoncé's ‘I Am…’ Second Singles Revealed |date=2008-10-20 |accessdate=2010-12-09 |work=Rap-Up |publisher=Devin Lazerine}}</ref> However, the release of "Ego" was scrapped and replaced with "Diva",<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.rap-up.com/2008/12/23/videos-beyonce-halo-diva/ |title=Videos : Beyoncé – 'Halo' & 'Diva' |date=2008-12-23 |accessdate =8 January 2012 |work=Rap-Up |publisher=Devin Lazerine}}</ref> which was taken from a different disc of ''I Am... Sasha Fierce'' to "Halo"; the intention was to demonstrate the concept that Beyoncé has conflicting personalities.<ref name="mtv1">{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1596842/20081010/knowles_beyonce.jhtml|title=Beyonce's Very Different New Videos: One Has Dancing, One Has Relationship Problems|last=Vineyard|first=Jennifer|date=October 13, 2008|publisher=MTV News. Viacom|accessdate=December 15, 2010}}</ref><ref name="boston">{{Cite news|url=http://www.boston.com/ae/music/articles/2008/11/17/beyonceacute_branches_out/?page=full |title=Beyoncé branches out – The Boston Globe |publisher=[[The New York Times Company]] |work=[[The Boston Globe]] |date=2008-11-17|accessdate=8 January 2012|first=James|last=Reed}}</ref> "Diva" added to [[urban contemporary]] radio<ref name="urban">{{cite web|url=http://gfa.radioandrecords.com/publishGFA/GFANextPage.asp?sDate=01/20/2009&Format=5 |title=R&R :: Going For Adds :: Urban |publisher=[[Radio & Records]] |date=2009-05-19 |accessdate=2010-07-13 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719062444/http://gfa.radioandrecords.com/publishGFA/GFANextPage.asp?sDate=01/20/2009&Format=5 |archivedate=2011-07-19 |df= }}</ref> and [[rhythmic contemporary]] radios playlists,<ref name="us_radio">[http://gfa.radioandrecords.com/publishGFA/GFANextPage.asp?sDate=01/20/2009&Format=9 Rhythmic – Week Of: January 20, 2009] [[Radio and Records]]. Retrieved 2010-12-09.</ref> while "Halo" was sent to [[contemporary hit radio]] on January 20, 2009.<ref name="gfa1">[http://gfa.radioandrecords.com/publishGFA/GFANextPage.asp?sDate=01/20/2009&Format=1 Top 40 – Week Of: January 20, 2009] Radio and Records. Retrieved 2010-12-09.</ref> In Germany, "Diva" was featured as the B-side to "Halo" single.<ref name="ger">{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.de/dp/B001UEFH4O |title=Halo (Single) |publisher=[[Amazon.com|Amazon Germany]]. Amazon Inc |date=2010-08-27|accessdate=2010-08-23}}</ref> Upon its release, contemporary music critics noted many similarities between Beyoncé's "Diva" and [[Lil Wayne]]'s 2008 song "[[A Milli]]"; both feature a similar beat produced by Bangladesh.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://rapfix.mtv.com/2010/11/15/lil-wayne-records-first-song-a-milli/ |title=Lil Wayne Has A New 'A Milli'?: RapFix Dissects The Orignal &#91;sic&#93; |publisher=MTV. MTV Networks |first=Hillary |last=Crosley |date=2010-11-15 |accessdate=2010-12-10}}</ref><ref name="Powers"/><ref name="McGuire"/> In an interview with [[Myspace|MySpace]], Beyoncé agreed that "Diva" is the woman's equivalent to "A Milli". However, she stated that it was not consciously.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2008/11/12/video-myspacetv-interviews-beyonce/ |title=Video: MySpace TV Interviews Beyoncé |work=Rap-Up |publisher=Devin Lazerine |date=2008-11-12 |accessdate=2009-11-30}}</ref> "Diva" eventually became to be known as the feminine companion to "A Milli".<ref name="boston"/><ref name="kick"/>
"[[Ego (Beyoncé song)|Ego]]" and "[[Halo (Beyoncé song)|Halo]]" were initially planned for simultaneous release in the US, following the 2008 dual [[lead single]]s "[[If I Were a Boy]]" and "[[Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)]]".<ref name="rap1">{{cite web |url=http://www.rap-up.com/2008/10/20/beyonces-i-am-second-singles-revealed/ |title=Beyoncé's ‘I Am…’ Second Singles Revealed |date=2008-10-20 |accessdate=2010-12-09 |work=Rap-Up |publisher=Devin Lazerine}}</ref> However, the release of "Ego" was scrapped and replaced with "Diva",<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.rap-up.com/2008/12/23/videos-beyonce-halo-diva/ |title=Videos : Beyoncé – 'Halo' & 'Diva' |date=2008-12-23 |accessdate =8 January 2012 |work=Rap-Up |publisher=Devin Lazerine}}</ref> which was taken from a different disc of ''I Am... Sasha Fierce'' to "Halo"; the intention was to demonstrate the concept that Beyoncé has conflicting personalities.<ref name="mtv1">{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1596842/20081010/knowles_beyonce.jhtml|title=Beyonce's Very Different New Videos: One Has Dancing, One Has Relationship Problems|last=Vineyard|first=Jennifer|date=October 13, 2008|publisher=MTV News. Viacom|accessdate=December 15, 2010}}</ref><ref name="boston">{{Cite news|url=http://www.boston.com/ae/music/articles/2008/11/17/beyonceacute_branches_out/?page=full |title=Beyoncé branches out – The Boston Globe |publisher=[[The New York Times Company]] |work=[[The Boston Globe]] |date=2008-11-17|accessdate=8 January 2012|first=James|last=Reed}}</ref> "Diva" added to [[urban contemporary]] radio<ref name="urban">{{cite web |url=http://gfa.radioandrecords.com/publishGFA/GFANextPage.asp?sDate=01/20/2009&Format=5 |title=R&R :: Going For Adds :: Urban |publisher=[[Radio & Records]] |date=2009-05-19 |accessdate=2010-07-13 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719062444/http://gfa.radioandrecords.com/publishGFA/GFANextPage.asp?sDate=01%2F20%2F2009&Format=5 |archivedate=2011-07-19 |df= }}</ref> and [[rhythmic contemporary]] radios playlists,<ref name="us_radio">[http://gfa.radioandrecords.com/publishGFA/GFANextPage.asp?sDate=01/20/2009&Format=9 Rhythmic – Week Of: January 20, 2009] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090323074438/http://gfa.radioandrecords.com/publishGFA/GFANextPage.asp?sDate=01%2F20%2F2009&Format=9 |date=March 23, 2009 }} [[Radio and Records]]. Retrieved 2010-12-09.</ref> while "Halo" was sent to [[contemporary hit radio]] on January 20, 2009.<ref name="gfa1">[http://gfa.radioandrecords.com/publishGFA/GFANextPage.asp?sDate=01/20/2009&Format=1 Top 40 – Week Of: January 20, 2009] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120429192909/http://gfa.radioandrecords.com/publishGFA/GFANextPage.asp?sDate=01%2F20%2F2009&Format=1 |date=April 29, 2012 }} Radio and Records. Retrieved 2010-12-09.</ref> In Germany, "Diva" was featured as the B-side to "Halo" single.<ref name="ger">{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.de/dp/B001UEFH4O |title=Halo (Single) |publisher=[[Amazon.com|Amazon Germany]]. Amazon Inc |date=2010-08-27|accessdate=2010-08-23}}</ref> Upon its release, contemporary music critics noted many similarities between Beyoncé's "Diva" and [[Lil Wayne]]'s 2008 song "[[A Milli]]"; both feature a similar beat produced by Bangladesh.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://rapfix.mtv.com/2010/11/15/lil-wayne-records-first-song-a-milli/ |title=Lil Wayne Has A New 'A Milli'?: RapFix Dissects The Orignal &#91;sic&#93; |publisher=MTV. MTV Networks |first=Hillary |last=Crosley |date=2010-11-15 |accessdate=2010-12-10}}</ref><ref name="Powers"/><ref name="McGuire"/> In an interview with [[Myspace|MySpace]], Beyoncé agreed that "Diva" is the woman's equivalent to "A Milli". However, she stated that it was not consciously.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2008/11/12/video-myspacetv-interviews-beyonce/ |title=Video: MySpace TV Interviews Beyoncé |work=Rap-Up |publisher=Devin Lazerine |date=2008-11-12 |accessdate=2009-11-30}}</ref> "Diva" eventually became to be known as the feminine companion to "A Milli".<ref name="boston"/><ref name="kick"/>


==Composition and lyrical interpretation==
==Composition and lyrical interpretation==
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| description = "Diva" features a heavy bass and a stuttering hip hop beat. Due to their aural similarities, "Diva" has been coined a "female companion" to [[Lil Wayne]]'s "[[A Milli]]".
| description = "Diva" features a heavy bass and a stuttering hip hop beat. Due to their aural similarities, "Diva" has been coined a "female companion" to [[Lil Wayne]]'s "[[A Milli]]".
}}
}}
"Diva" is an [[Contemporary R&B|R&B]] and [[Hip hop music|hip hop]] song, which is composed in a moderate [[tempo]] in the [[Key (music)|key]] of [[E major]].<ref name="sheet">{{cite news|title=Diva digital sheet music (Digital Download)|work=''MusicNotes.com''|publisher=[[Hal Leonard Corporation]]}}</ref><ref name="thui">{{cite news|url=http://www.chron.com/entertainment/music/article/CD-showcases-Beyonce-s-split-personality-1675646.php|title=Album Review: Beyonce I Am... Sasha Fierce|first=Joey|last=Guerra|work=[[Houston Chronicle]]|publisher=[[Hearst Corporation]]|date=2008-11-17|accessdate=2011-12-25}}</ref> It carries a stuttering beat,<ref name="bbctalia" /> which is accompanied by a slow-rolling and heavy [[Bass (instrument)|bass]]-pumping [[Groove (music)|groove]]<ref name="boston"/><ref name="jam">{{cite web|last=Sterdan |first=Darryl |title=Review Album: Beyoncé - I Am ... Sasha Fierce |url=http://jam.canoe.ca/Music/Artists/B/Beyonce/AlbumReviews/2008/11/18/7453821-sun.html |publisher=[[Jam!]]. [[Sun Media]] |accessdate=2010-12-11 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/65sBt3JSy?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjam.canoe.ca%2FMusic%2FArtists%2FB%2FBeyonce%2FAlbumReviews%2F2008%2F11%2F18%2F7453821-sun.html |archivedate=2012-03-02 |df= }}</ref> with a jerky rhythm.<ref name="nj.com" /> The song marks a change of direction for Beyoncé; she [[Rapping|raps]] in [[candace]]s<ref name="nj.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.nj.com/entertainment/music/index.ssf/2008/11/in_a_double_cd_beyonce_bares_h.html|title=In a double CD, Beyonce bares her soul and alter ego|publisher=New Jersey On-Line. Advance Internet|first=Jay|last=Lustig|date=2008-11-14|accessdate=2013-05-12}}</ref> over a [[Roland TR-808]] machine, [[Bass drum|kick drums]], and less instruments than her usual tracks.<ref name="kick"/><ref name="dailymail"/><ref name="Hoard"/> As stated by Andy Kellman of [[Allmusic]], "Diva" aurally resembles Beyoncé's own 2006 songs "[[Freakum Dress]]" and "[[Ring the Alarm]]".<ref name="allmusic"/> Spence D. of [[IGN|IGN Music]] further compared its hip hop composition to [[Missy Elliott]]'s earlier songs.<ref name="ign">{{cite web|url=http://music.ign.com/articles/933/933019p1.html|title=Beyonce – I Am... Sasha Fierce: The two sides of Ms. Knowles fight for your attention|publisher=IGN. [[News Corporation]]|last=D.|first=Spence|date=2008-11-22|accessdate=2011-12-25}}</ref> Adam Mattera of ''[[The Observer]]'' noted "Diva" could be "a perfect independent women anthem";<ref name="aa"/> its lyrics reflect a message of courage and determination.<ref name="McGuire"/> Similarly, ''[[Houston Chronicle]]''{{'}}s Joey Guerra called the song an "ode to female fabulousness".<ref name="thui" />
"Diva" is an [[Contemporary R&B|R&B]] and [[Hip hop music|hip hop]] song, which is composed in a moderate [[tempo]] in the [[Key (music)|key]] of [[E major]].<ref name="sheet">{{cite news|title=Diva digital sheet music (Digital Download)|work=''MusicNotes.com''|publisher=[[Hal Leonard Corporation]]}}</ref><ref name="thui">{{cite news|url=http://www.chron.com/entertainment/music/article/CD-showcases-Beyonce-s-split-personality-1675646.php|title=Album Review: Beyonce I Am... Sasha Fierce|first=Joey|last=Guerra|work=[[Houston Chronicle]]|publisher=[[Hearst Corporation]]|date=2008-11-17|accessdate=2011-12-25}}</ref> It carries a stuttering beat,<ref name="bbctalia" /> which is accompanied by a slow-rolling and heavy [[Bass (instrument)|bass]]-pumping [[Groove (music)|groove]]<ref name="boston"/><ref name="jam">{{cite web |last=Sterdan |first=Darryl |title=Review Album: Beyoncé - I Am ... Sasha Fierce |url=http://jam.canoe.ca/Music/Artists/B/Beyonce/AlbumReviews/2008/11/18/7453821-sun.html |publisher=[[Jam!]]. [[Sun Media]] |accessdate=2010-12-11 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/65sBt3JSy?url=http://jam.canoe.ca/Music/Artists/B/Beyonce/AlbumReviews/2008/11/18/7453821-sun.html |archivedate=2012-03-02 |df= }}</ref> with a jerky rhythm.<ref name="nj.com" /> The song marks a change of direction for Beyoncé; she [[Rapping|raps]] in [[candace]]s<ref name="nj.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.nj.com/entertainment/music/index.ssf/2008/11/in_a_double_cd_beyonce_bares_h.html|title=In a double CD, Beyonce bares her soul and alter ego|publisher=New Jersey On-Line. Advance Internet|first=Jay|last=Lustig|date=2008-11-14|accessdate=2013-05-12}}</ref> over a [[Roland TR-808]] machine, [[Bass drum|kick drums]], and less instruments than her usual tracks.<ref name="kick"/><ref name="dailymail"/><ref name="Hoard"/> As stated by Andy Kellman of [[Allmusic]], "Diva" aurally resembles Beyoncé's own 2006 songs "[[Freakum Dress]]" and "[[Ring the Alarm]]".<ref name="allmusic"/> Spence D. of [[IGN|IGN Music]] further compared its hip hop composition to [[Missy Elliott]]'s earlier songs.<ref name="ign">{{cite web|url=http://music.ign.com/articles/933/933019p1.html|title=Beyonce – I Am... Sasha Fierce: The two sides of Ms. Knowles fight for your attention|publisher=IGN. [[News Corporation]]|last=D.|first=Spence|date=2008-11-22|accessdate=2011-12-25|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110628214443/http://music.ign.com/articles/933/933019p1.html|archivedate=2011-06-28|df=}}</ref> Adam Mattera of ''[[The Observer]]'' noted "Diva" could be "a perfect independent women anthem";<ref name="aa"/> its lyrics reflect a message of courage and determination.<ref name="McGuire"/> Similarly, ''[[Houston Chronicle]]''{{'}}s Joey Guerra called the song an "ode to female fabulousness".<ref name="thui" />


"Diva" features Beyoncé as the female protagonist speaking about being a diva.<ref name="mtv.com">{{cite web|last=Vineyard|first=Jennifer|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1597718/20081023/knowles_beyonce.jhtml|title=Beyoncé Album Preview: I Am... Sasha Fierce Shines Light On B's Alter Ego|publisher=MTV News. MTV Networks|date=2008-10-23|accessdate=2011-02-27}}</ref> Chipmunked vocal samples and overdubs aplenty make up the song's foundation. According to Nick Levine of [[Digital Spy]], Beyoncé's [[alter ego]] Sasha Fierce also salutes her earning power and proclaims herself as the "number one diva in the game".<ref name="Nick">{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/music/albumreviews/a136159/beyonce-i-am-sasha-fierce.html |title=Music - Album Review - Beyoncé: 'I Am... Sasha Fierce' |publisher=[[Digital Spy]]. [[Hachette Filipacchi Médias]]|last=Levine|first=Nick|date=2008-11-17 |accessdate=2010-05-30}}</ref> "Diva" begins with metallic kick drum complemented by Beyoncé's robotic sly vocal stutters as she sings: "I'm a, I'm a, a diva".<ref name="kick"/><ref name="jam"/> She then starts the first verse, chanting the dictionary definition of a diva.<ref name="Powers">{{cite web|url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/music_blog/2008/11/snap-judgment-b.html |title=Snap Judgment: Beyoncé's 'I Am ... Sasha Fierce'|last=Powers|first=Ann|authorlink=Ann Powers|date=2008-11-11|work=[[Los Angeles Times]]|publisher=[[Tribune Company]]|accessdate=2011-12-25}}</ref><ref name="bbctalia">{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/music/reviews/pxbd|title=Beyoncé - I Am...Sasha Fierce Review|publisher=[[BBC Online]]. [[BBC]]|first=Talia|last=Kraines|date=2008-11-28|accessdate=2011-12-25}}</ref> She references her millions of dollars,<ref name="dailymail"/> and raps, "I done got so sick and filthy with benjis, I can't spend it", channeling her alter ego.<ref name="washtimes" /> After repeating the [[introduction (music)|introductory lines]], Beyoncé employs breathy drawls and robotic shouts to chant the [[Refrain|chorus]], where the lines, "Now diva is a female version of a hustla. Of a hustla. Of a, of a hustla", are looped.<ref name="boston"/><ref name="ewvid"/> In the second verse, she finds love in the club,<ref name="Powers"/> where she warns "Better have a six-pack in the cooler ... If you ain’t gettin[g] money, then you ain't got nothin[g] for me", and asks, "Where yo Boss at?"<ref name="ewvid"/><ref name="av"/> After singing the third verse and the chorus for the third time, Beyoncé adopts her initial chipmunked vocals to end the song, chanting, "I'm a, I'm a, a diva".<ref name="jam"/>
"Diva" features Beyoncé as the female protagonist speaking about being a diva.<ref name="mtv.com">{{cite web|last=Vineyard|first=Jennifer|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1597718/20081023/knowles_beyonce.jhtml|title=Beyoncé Album Preview: I Am... Sasha Fierce Shines Light On B's Alter Ego|publisher=MTV News. MTV Networks|date=2008-10-23|accessdate=2011-02-27}}</ref> Chipmunked vocal samples and overdubs aplenty make up the song's foundation. According to Nick Levine of [[Digital Spy]], Beyoncé's [[alter ego]] Sasha Fierce also salutes her earning power and proclaims herself as the "number one diva in the game".<ref name="Nick">{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/music/albumreviews/a136159/beyonce-i-am-sasha-fierce.html |title=Music - Album Review - Beyoncé: 'I Am... Sasha Fierce' |publisher=[[Digital Spy]]. [[Hachette Filipacchi Médias]]|last=Levine|first=Nick|date=2008-11-17 |accessdate=2010-05-30}}</ref> "Diva" begins with metallic kick drum complemented by Beyoncé's robotic sly vocal stutters as she sings: "I'm a, I'm a, a diva".<ref name="kick"/><ref name="jam"/> She then starts the first verse, chanting the dictionary definition of a diva.<ref name="Powers">{{cite web|url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/music_blog/2008/11/snap-judgment-b.html |title=Snap Judgment: Beyoncé's 'I Am ... Sasha Fierce'|last=Powers|first=Ann|authorlink=Ann Powers|date=2008-11-11|work=[[Los Angeles Times]]|publisher=[[Tribune Company]]|accessdate=2011-12-25}}</ref><ref name="bbctalia">{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/music/reviews/pxbd|title=Beyoncé - I Am...Sasha Fierce Review|publisher=[[BBC Online]]. [[BBC]]|first=Talia|last=Kraines|date=2008-11-28|accessdate=2011-12-25}}</ref> She references her millions of dollars,<ref name="dailymail"/> and raps, "I done got so sick and filthy with benjis, I can't spend it", channeling her alter ego.<ref name="washtimes" /> After repeating the [[introduction (music)|introductory lines]], Beyoncé employs breathy drawls and robotic shouts to chant the [[Refrain|chorus]], where the lines, "Now diva is a female version of a hustla. Of a hustla. Of a, of a hustla", are looped.<ref name="boston"/><ref name="ewvid"/> In the second verse, she finds love in the club,<ref name="Powers"/> where she warns "Better have a six-pack in the cooler ... If you ain’t gettin[g] money, then you ain't got nothin[g] for me", and asks, "Where yo Boss at?"<ref name="ewvid"/><ref name="av"/> After singing the third verse and the chorus for the third time, Beyoncé adopts her initial chipmunked vocals to end the song, chanting, "I'm a, I'm a, a diva".<ref name="jam"/>
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The song received mixed to positive reviews, with critics either praising or criticizing it being a female companion to "A Milli." Matos Michaelangelo of ''[[The A.V. Club]]'' said that "Diva" is a flagrant attempt to write a female version of "A Milli".<ref name="av">{{cite news|first=Michaelangelo |last=Matos|url=http://www.avclub.com/articles/beyonce-i-am-sasha-fierce,6733/ |title=Music - Album Review - Beyoncé: 'I Am... Sasha Fierce' |work=[[The A.V. Club]] |publisher=[[The Onion]] |date=2008-11-17 |accessdate=2010-06-20}}</ref> Leah Greenblat of ''[[Entertainment Weekly]]'' wrote that "Diva" can make a good feminine companion to "A Milli" thanks to their use of similar music instruments."<ref name="kick">{{cite web |first=Leah |last=Greenblatt |url=http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20237810,00.html |title=I Am...Sasha Fierce &#124; Music |work=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |publisher=[[Time Inc]] |date=2008-11-05 |accessdate=2009-11-30}}</ref> Noting its similarity to "A Milli", Andy Kellman of Allmusic picked out "Diva" as one of the three standout tracks from the album.<ref name="allmusic">{{cite web|last=Kellman |first=Andy |url={{Allmusic|class=album|id=r1451954|pure_url=yes}} |title=((( I Am... Sasha Fierce [Deluxe Edition&#93; > Overview ))) |publisher=[[Allmusic]]. [[Rovi Corporation]] |date=2008-11-18 |accessdate=2009-11-30}}</ref> J. Freedom du Lac of ''[[The Washington Post]]'' chose it as one of the best songs on ''I Am... Sasha Fierce'', calling it a "fun, [and] tuneless, gender-twisting play".<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/11/17/AR2008111703099.html|title=Beyoncé's 'I Am...Sasha Fierce'|work=[[The Washington Post]]|publisher=[[The Washington Post Company]]|first=J.|last=Freedom du Lac|date=2008-11-18|accessdate=2011-12-25}}</ref> Colin McGuire of [[PopMatters]] picked "Diva" as the highlight of the album, noting its "Lil Wayne-inspired beat" and describing it as "cheeky". He further wrote it shows the singer's "impeccable street side... with enough attitude to make it work".<ref name="McGuire">McGuire, Colin. (2009-02-09) [http://www.popmatters.com/pm/review/69482-beyonce-i-am-sasha-fierce/ Review: ''I Am... Sasha Fierce'']. [[PopMatters]]. Retrieved on 2009-11-11.</ref>
The song received mixed to positive reviews, with critics either praising or criticizing it being a female companion to "A Milli." Matos Michaelangelo of ''[[The A.V. Club]]'' said that "Diva" is a flagrant attempt to write a female version of "A Milli".<ref name="av">{{cite news|first=Michaelangelo |last=Matos|url=http://www.avclub.com/articles/beyonce-i-am-sasha-fierce,6733/ |title=Music - Album Review - Beyoncé: 'I Am... Sasha Fierce' |work=[[The A.V. Club]] |publisher=[[The Onion]] |date=2008-11-17 |accessdate=2010-06-20}}</ref> Leah Greenblat of ''[[Entertainment Weekly]]'' wrote that "Diva" can make a good feminine companion to "A Milli" thanks to their use of similar music instruments."<ref name="kick">{{cite web |first=Leah |last=Greenblatt |url=http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20237810,00.html |title=I Am...Sasha Fierce &#124; Music |work=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |publisher=[[Time Inc]] |date=2008-11-05 |accessdate=2009-11-30}}</ref> Noting its similarity to "A Milli", Andy Kellman of Allmusic picked out "Diva" as one of the three standout tracks from the album.<ref name="allmusic">{{cite web|last=Kellman |first=Andy |url={{Allmusic|class=album|id=r1451954|pure_url=yes}} |title=((( I Am... Sasha Fierce [Deluxe Edition&#93; > Overview ))) |publisher=[[Allmusic]]. [[Rovi Corporation]] |date=2008-11-18 |accessdate=2009-11-30}}</ref> J. Freedom du Lac of ''[[The Washington Post]]'' chose it as one of the best songs on ''I Am... Sasha Fierce'', calling it a "fun, [and] tuneless, gender-twisting play".<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/11/17/AR2008111703099.html|title=Beyoncé's 'I Am...Sasha Fierce'|work=[[The Washington Post]]|publisher=[[The Washington Post Company]]|first=J.|last=Freedom du Lac|date=2008-11-18|accessdate=2011-12-25}}</ref> Colin McGuire of [[PopMatters]] picked "Diva" as the highlight of the album, noting its "Lil Wayne-inspired beat" and describing it as "cheeky". He further wrote it shows the singer's "impeccable street side... with enough attitude to make it work".<ref name="McGuire">McGuire, Colin. (2009-02-09) [http://www.popmatters.com/pm/review/69482-beyonce-i-am-sasha-fierce/ Review: ''I Am... Sasha Fierce'']. [[PopMatters]]. Retrieved on 2009-11-11.</ref>


[[Greg Kot]] of ''[[Chicago Tribune]]'' commented that the "menacing rhythm and chanted vocals" on "Diva", mark the album's biggest departure.<ref name="chica">{{cite news|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2008-11-16/news/0811140321_1_disc-fierce-previous-album|title=Beyonce's 'Sasha Fierce' places blame for women's pain on men|first=Greg|last=Kot|authorlink=Greg Kot|work=[[Chicago Tribune]]|publisher=[[Tribune Company]]|date=2008-11-16|accessdate=2011-12-11}}</ref> Adam Mazmanian of ''[[The Washington Times]]'' felt that the song was influenced by Beyoncé's husband, American rapper [[Jay-Z]] as it has a "bad soft-core gangster rap".<ref name="washtimes">{{cite news |url=http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2008/nov/18/beyonces-two-faces/|title=Beyonce’s two faces|work=[[The Washington Times]]|publisher=[[List of Unification Church affiliated organizations|News World Media Development]]|first=Adam|last=Mazmanian|date=2008-11-18|accessdate=2011-12-25}}</ref> He also noted that its contains words that could get an "explicit" sticker by the chain stores.<ref name="washtimes" /> Similarly, Daniel Brockman of ''[[The Phoenix (newspaper)|The Phoenix]]'' remarked that the song is "particularly intriguing" as it progresses through "hard-knockish robbery scenarios" which does not resemble Beyoncé's clean public image.<ref name="phoenix">{{cite news |first=Daniel |last=Brockman |url=http://thephoenix.com/Boston/Music/72987-BEYONCe-I-AM-SASHA-FIERCE/ |title=Beyoncé &#124; I Am . . . Sasha Fierce - CD Reviews - Boston Phoenix |work=[[The Phoenix (newspaper)|The Phoenix]] |publisher=[[Phoenix Media/Communications Group]] |date=2008-12-02 |accessdate=2009-12-31}}</ref> Stacey Anderson of ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]'' magazine noted that "Diva" places a "startling, sexy snarl over window-rattling bass".<ref name="Anderson">Anderson, Stacey (2008-12-08). [http://www.spin.com/reviews/beyonc%C3%A9-i-am%E2%80%A6sasha-fierce-music-worldcolumbia Review: ''I Am... Sasha Fierce''] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110617105639/http://www.spin.com/reviews/beyonc%C3%A9-i-am%E2%80%A6sasha-fierce-music-worldcolumbia |date=June 17, 2011 }}. ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]''. Spin Media LLC. Retrieved on 2010-09-10.</ref> Christian Hoard of ''[[Rolling Stone]]'' noted Beyoncé turns out "modal-sounding hooks" over 808 bass on the song.<ref name="Hoard">Hoard, Christian. (2008-11-18) [https://www.rollingstone.com/music/albumreviews/i-am-sasha-fierce-20081127 Review: ''I Am... Sasha Fierce'']. ''[[Rolling Stone]]''. [[Jann Wenner|Wenner Media]]. Retrieved on 2009-11-11.</ref> ''[[The Village Voice]]''{{'}}s Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond described Sasha Fierce as "suffer{{sic}} no such identity crisis, brassy, big-headed, confrontational, and witty...", reflected on "Diva".<ref name="Hammond">Brew-Hammond, Nana Ekua. (2008-12-17) [http://www.villagevoice.com/2008-12-17/music/on-the-method-behind-beyonc-eacute-s-multiple-personality-madness/ Review: ''I Am... Sasha Fierce'']. ''[[The Village Voice]]''. ([[Village Voice Media]]). Retrieved on 2009-11-11.</ref> James Reed of ''[[The Boston Globe]]'' described "Diva" as a "glitchy, bass-heavy thumper with the most ridiculous chorus of the year".<ref name="boston"/> Reed nevertheless added that the song is "insanely catchy, but then, when you hear something looped incessantly, no matter how mindless, it's bound to stick".<ref name="boston"/>
[[Greg Kot]] of ''[[Chicago Tribune]]'' commented that the "menacing rhythm and chanted vocals" on "Diva", mark the album's biggest departure.<ref name="chica">{{cite news|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2008-11-16/news/0811140321_1_disc-fierce-previous-album|title=Beyonce's 'Sasha Fierce' places blame for women's pain on men|first=Greg|last=Kot|authorlink=Greg Kot|work=[[Chicago Tribune]]|publisher=[[Tribune Company]]|date=2008-11-16|accessdate=2011-12-11}}</ref> Adam Mazmanian of ''[[The Washington Times]]'' felt that the song was influenced by Beyoncé's husband, American rapper [[Jay-Z]] as it has a "bad soft-core gangster rap".<ref name="washtimes">{{cite news |url=http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2008/nov/18/beyonces-two-faces/|title=Beyonce’s two faces|work=[[The Washington Times]]|publisher=[[List of Unification Church affiliated organizations|News World Media Development]]|first=Adam|last=Mazmanian|date=2008-11-18|accessdate=2011-12-25}}</ref> He also noted that its contains words that could get an "explicit" sticker by the chain stores.<ref name="washtimes" /> Similarly, Daniel Brockman of ''[[The Phoenix (newspaper)|The Phoenix]]'' remarked that the song is "particularly intriguing" as it progresses through "hard-knockish robbery scenarios" which does not resemble Beyoncé's clean public image.<ref name="phoenix">{{cite news |first=Daniel |last=Brockman |url=http://thephoenix.com/Boston/Music/72987-BEYONCe-I-AM-SASHA-FIERCE/ |title=Beyoncé &#124; I Am . . . Sasha Fierce - CD Reviews - Boston Phoenix |work=[[The Phoenix (newspaper)|The Phoenix]] |publisher=[[Phoenix Media/Communications Group]] |date=2008-12-02 |accessdate=2009-12-31 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/68EcSmWSH?url=http://thephoenix.com/Boston/Music/72987-BEYONCe-I-AM-SASHA-FIERCE/ |archivedate=2012-06-07 |df= }}</ref> Stacey Anderson of ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]'' magazine noted that "Diva" places a "startling, sexy snarl over window-rattling bass".<ref name="Anderson">Anderson, Stacey (2008-12-08). [http://www.spin.com/reviews/beyonc%C3%A9-i-am%E2%80%A6sasha-fierce-music-worldcolumbia Review: ''I Am... Sasha Fierce''] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110617105639/http://www.spin.com/reviews/beyonc%C3%A9-i-am%E2%80%A6sasha-fierce-music-worldcolumbia |date=June 17, 2011 }}. ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]''. Spin Media LLC. Retrieved on 2010-09-10.</ref> Christian Hoard of ''[[Rolling Stone]]'' noted Beyoncé turns out "modal-sounding hooks" over 808 bass on the song.<ref name="Hoard">Hoard, Christian. (2008-11-18) [https://www.rollingstone.com/music/albumreviews/i-am-sasha-fierce-20081127 Review: ''I Am... Sasha Fierce'']. ''[[Rolling Stone]]''. [[Jann Wenner|Wenner Media]]. Retrieved on 2009-11-11.</ref> ''[[The Village Voice]]''{{'}}s Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond described Sasha Fierce as "suffer{{sic}} no such identity crisis, brassy, big-headed, confrontational, and witty...", reflected on "Diva".<ref name="Hammond">Brew-Hammond, Nana Ekua. (2008-12-17) [http://www.villagevoice.com/2008-12-17/music/on-the-method-behind-beyonc-eacute-s-multiple-personality-madness/ Review: ''I Am... Sasha Fierce'']. ''[[The Village Voice]]''. ([[Village Voice Media]]). Retrieved on 2009-11-11.</ref> James Reed of ''[[The Boston Globe]]'' described "Diva" as a "glitchy, bass-heavy thumper with the most ridiculous chorus of the year".<ref name="boston"/> Reed nevertheless added that the song is "insanely catchy, but then, when you hear something looped incessantly, no matter how mindless, it's bound to stick".<ref name="boston"/>


Mariel Concepcion of ''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' magazine noted that "Diva" is not something new, nevertheless it manages to be a radio-ready dance song.<ref name="bill">{{cite web|url=http://www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/content_display/magazine/reviews/albums/e3ifc7bb2290700c27fc478bd2c3ff3dde9|title=I Am ... Sasha Fierce: Beyoncé|last=Concepcion|first=Mariel|date=2008-11-22|work=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|publisher=[[Prometheus Global Media]] |accessdate=2008-11-18|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20090529065427/http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/content_display/reviews/albums/e3ifc7bb2290700c27fc478bd2c3ff3dde9|archivedate=2009-05-29}}</ref> Alex Thornton of [[AllHipHop]] noted that Beyoncé adopts a masculine character on "Diva" and that it is "something decent to bounce to at least".<ref name="Haynes">{{cite web |last=Thornton |first=Alex |title=I Am... Sasha Fierce |url=http://allhiphop.com/stories/alternatives/archive/2008/11/19/20703901.aspx |publisher=[[AllHipHop]] |date=2008-08-19 |accessdate=January 15, 2011}}</ref> ''The Observer''{{'}}s Adam Mattera described the song as a potential source of inspiration to [[drag queen]]s, however concluded that it can also leave many persons confused and bewildered.<ref name="aa">Mattera, Adam (2008-11-09). [https://www.theguardian.com/music/2008/nov/09/beyonce-sasha-fierce-review Review: ''I Am... Sasha Fierce'']. ''[[The Observer]]''. ([[Guardian Media Group]]). Retrieved on 2010-09-10.</ref> Alexis Petridis of ''[[The Guardian]]'', also reviewed the song negatively, stating, "The sonic trickery on the most experimental track, 'Diva', isn't interesting enough to distract you from the absence of a tune."<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/2008/nov/14/beyonce-i-am-sasha-fierce |title=CD: Beyoncé, I Am ... Sasha Fierce &#124; Music |work=[[The Guardian]] |publisher=Guardian Media Group |date=2008-11-14 |accessdate=2009-11-30 | first=Alexis | last=Petridis}}</ref> Spence D. of IGN Music, felt that Beyoncé's rapping in the song was a "bad idea" and described the song as "awkward, [and] horribly dated."<ref name="ign" /> On ''The Village Voice''{{'}}s 2009 [[Pazz & Jop]] singles list, "Diva" was ranked at number 224.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.villagevoice.com/pazznjop/singles/2009/|title=New York Pazz and Jop Singles - 2009|work=The Village Voice|publisher=Village Voice Media|accessdate=2012-03-19}}</ref> In 2013, John Boone and Jennifer Cady of [[E! Online]] placed the song at number nine on their list of ten best Beyoncé's songs.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://uk.eonline.com/photos/7684/top-10-best-beyonc-songs/254642|title=Top 10 Best Beyoncé Songs|first1=John|last1=Boone|first2=Jennifer|last2=Cady|publisher=[[E! Online]]. [[NBCUniversal]]|date=2013-01-30|accessdate=2013-04-28|page=2}}</ref>
Mariel Concepcion of ''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' magazine noted that "Diva" is not something new, nevertheless it manages to be a radio-ready dance song.<ref name="bill">{{cite web|url=http://www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/content_display/magazine/reviews/albums/e3ifc7bb2290700c27fc478bd2c3ff3dde9|title=I Am ... Sasha Fierce: Beyoncé|last=Concepcion|first=Mariel|date=2008-11-22|work=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|publisher=[[Prometheus Global Media]] |accessdate=2008-11-18|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20090529065427/http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/content_display/reviews/albums/e3ifc7bb2290700c27fc478bd2c3ff3dde9|archivedate=2009-05-29}}</ref> Alex Thornton of [[AllHipHop]] noted that Beyoncé adopts a masculine character on "Diva" and that it is "something decent to bounce to at least".<ref name="Haynes">{{cite web |last=Thornton |first=Alex |title=I Am... Sasha Fierce |url=http://allhiphop.com/stories/alternatives/archive/2008/11/19/20703901.aspx |publisher=[[AllHipHop]] |date=2008-08-19 |accessdate=January 15, 2011}}</ref> ''The Observer''{{'}}s Adam Mattera described the song as a potential source of inspiration to [[drag queen]]s, however concluded that it can also leave many persons confused and bewildered.<ref name="aa">Mattera, Adam (2008-11-09). [https://www.theguardian.com/music/2008/nov/09/beyonce-sasha-fierce-review Review: ''I Am... Sasha Fierce'']. ''[[The Observer]]''. ([[Guardian Media Group]]). Retrieved on 2010-09-10.</ref> Alexis Petridis of ''[[The Guardian]]'', also reviewed the song negatively, stating, "The sonic trickery on the most experimental track, 'Diva', isn't interesting enough to distract you from the absence of a tune."<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/2008/nov/14/beyonce-i-am-sasha-fierce |title=CD: Beyoncé, I Am ... Sasha Fierce &#124; Music |work=[[The Guardian]] |publisher=Guardian Media Group |date=2008-11-14 |accessdate=2009-11-30 | first=Alexis | last=Petridis}}</ref> Spence D. of IGN Music, felt that Beyoncé's rapping in the song was a "bad idea" and described the song as "awkward, [and] horribly dated."<ref name="ign" /> On ''The Village Voice''{{'}}s 2009 [[Pazz & Jop]] singles list, "Diva" was ranked at number 224.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.villagevoice.com/pazznjop/singles/2009/|title=New York Pazz and Jop Singles - 2009|work=The Village Voice|publisher=Village Voice Media|accessdate=2012-03-19}}</ref> In 2013, John Boone and Jennifer Cady of [[E! Online]] placed the song at number nine on their list of ten best Beyoncé's songs.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://uk.eonline.com/photos/7684/top-10-best-beyonc-songs/254642|title=Top 10 Best Beyoncé Songs|first1=John|last1=Boone|first2=Jennifer|last2=Cady|publisher=[[E! Online]]. [[NBCUniversal]]|date=2013-01-30|accessdate=2013-04-28|page=2}}</ref>
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The accompanying [[music video]] for "Diva" was shot downtown [[Los Angeles]] on November 22, 2008, and was directed by [[Melina Matsoukas]], who worked with Beyoncé for several music videos.<ref name="rap3">{{cite web |url=http://www.rap-up.com/2008/11/23/beyonce-gets-in-diva-mode-for-new-video/ |title=Beyoncé Gets In "Diva" Mode For New Video |date=2008-11-23 |accessdate=2010-12-10 |work=Rap-Up |publisher=Devin Lazerine}}</ref> The music video is conceptually similar to that for "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" in the sense that it was filmed in black and white, shows Beyoncé as [[alter ego]] Sasha Fierce, who dons her metal glove and performs choreography with two back-up dancers with more formal leotards. Beyoncé wears a [[Gareth Pugh]] design in the video,<ref name="galamour">{{cite web | url=http://www.glamour.com/fashion/blogs/slaves-to-fashion/2008/12/beyonce-rocks-gareth-pugh-in-h.html | title=Beyoncé rocks Gareth Pugh in her new music video | first=Tracey |last=Lomrantz | work=[[Glamour (magazine)|Glamour]] | publisher=[[Condé Nast Publications]] | date=2008-12-30 | accessdate=2009-08-22 }}</ref> a custom [[Brian Lichtenberg]] bodysuit,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://style.mtv.com/2011/09/14/katy-perry-beyonce-brian-lichtenberg/ |title=Katy Perry, Kristin Cavallari, and Beyonce Favorite Brian Lichtenberg Talks Maternity Clothes And Spring Trends | first=Rory | last=Rockmore | work=[[MTV]]}}</ref> as well as a couple of vintage [[Thierry Mugler]] Haute Couture pieces, including a leather bodice and a reptilia inspired gown.<ref name="galamour"/> Diana Palkington of ''Daily Mail'' wrote that the gown gave Beyoncé a distinct appearance of a mermaid;<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1088705/Tail-deep-Beyonc--Sasha--turns-mermaid-new-video.html|title=Tail from the deep: Beyoncé (or should that be Sasha?) turns mermaid in new video|work=Daily Mail|publisher=Daily Mail and General Trust|first=Diana|last=Palkington|date=2008-11-23|accessdate=2013-05-11}}</ref> it was noted by another writer of the same publication that the same dress was worn by [[Jennifer Lopez]] in the past.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1090014/Stop-thief-Copycat-Beyonc-images-shes-stolen-years.html|title=Stop thief: Copycat Beyoncé and all the images she's stolen down the years|work=Daily Mail|publisher=Daily Mail and General Trust|date=2008-11-28|accessdate=2013-05-11}}</ref>
The accompanying [[music video]] for "Diva" was shot downtown [[Los Angeles]] on November 22, 2008, and was directed by [[Melina Matsoukas]], who worked with Beyoncé for several music videos.<ref name="rap3">{{cite web |url=http://www.rap-up.com/2008/11/23/beyonce-gets-in-diva-mode-for-new-video/ |title=Beyoncé Gets In "Diva" Mode For New Video |date=2008-11-23 |accessdate=2010-12-10 |work=Rap-Up |publisher=Devin Lazerine}}</ref> The music video is conceptually similar to that for "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" in the sense that it was filmed in black and white, shows Beyoncé as [[alter ego]] Sasha Fierce, who dons her metal glove and performs choreography with two back-up dancers with more formal leotards. Beyoncé wears a [[Gareth Pugh]] design in the video,<ref name="galamour">{{cite web | url=http://www.glamour.com/fashion/blogs/slaves-to-fashion/2008/12/beyonce-rocks-gareth-pugh-in-h.html | title=Beyoncé rocks Gareth Pugh in her new music video | first=Tracey |last=Lomrantz | work=[[Glamour (magazine)|Glamour]] | publisher=[[Condé Nast Publications]] | date=2008-12-30 | accessdate=2009-08-22 }}</ref> a custom [[Brian Lichtenberg]] bodysuit,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://style.mtv.com/2011/09/14/katy-perry-beyonce-brian-lichtenberg/ |title=Katy Perry, Kristin Cavallari, and Beyonce Favorite Brian Lichtenberg Talks Maternity Clothes And Spring Trends | first=Rory | last=Rockmore | work=[[MTV]]}}</ref> as well as a couple of vintage [[Thierry Mugler]] Haute Couture pieces, including a leather bodice and a reptilia inspired gown.<ref name="galamour"/> Diana Palkington of ''Daily Mail'' wrote that the gown gave Beyoncé a distinct appearance of a mermaid;<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1088705/Tail-deep-Beyonc--Sasha--turns-mermaid-new-video.html|title=Tail from the deep: Beyoncé (or should that be Sasha?) turns mermaid in new video|work=Daily Mail|publisher=Daily Mail and General Trust|first=Diana|last=Palkington|date=2008-11-23|accessdate=2013-05-11}}</ref> it was noted by another writer of the same publication that the same dress was worn by [[Jennifer Lopez]] in the past.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1090014/Stop-thief-Copycat-Beyonc-images-shes-stolen-years.html|title=Stop thief: Copycat Beyoncé and all the images she's stolen down the years|work=Daily Mail|publisher=Daily Mail and General Trust|date=2008-11-28|accessdate=2013-05-11}}</ref>


In her 2003 music video for "[[Crazy in Love (Beyoncé Knowles song)|Crazy in Love]]" (2003), Beyoncé's husband (then boyfriend) Jay-Z throws a lighter on the ground, which ignites a trail of petrol to a car. According to a ''[[Daily Mail]]''{{'}}s reporter, that particular scene bears resemblance to the climax of "Diva"{{'}}'s video, where Beyoncé lights a cigar and throws the still lit lighter at a car, prompting it to explode into flames. The same location under a bridge in downtown Los Angeles was chosen for the shoot.<ref name="dailymail">{{cite news |title=Copycat Beyoncé strikes again... but this time she's borrowing her husband Jay-Z's moves |url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1108222/Copycat-Beyonc-strikes--time-shes-borrowing-husband-Jay-Zs-moves.html |work=[[Daily Mail]] |publisher=[[Daily Mail and General Trust]] |date=2009-01-07 |accessdate=2011-02-11}}</ref> The video for "Diva" premiered on the [[iTunes Store]] on December 23, simultaneously with the one for "Halo".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewRoom?fcId=300593719&id=1&v0=WWW-NAUS-ITUWEEKLY-STARTPAGE |title='Diva' music video on iTunes |publisher=[[iTunes Store]] (US). [[Apple Inc]] |date=2008-12-23 |accessdate=2010-12-10}}</ref> It was included on Beyoncé's remix album with videography, ''[[Above and Beyoncé – Video Collection & Dance Mixes|Above and Beyoncé]]'' (2009).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.beyonceonline.com/us/news/beyonc%C3%A9-release-above-and-beyonce-video-collection-dance-mixes |title=Beyoncé to Release Above and Beyoncé - Video Collection & Dance Mixes! |publisher=Beyoncé Knowles Official Website |date=2009-05-26 |accessdate=2009-11-30}}</ref> A behind-the-scenes footage of the filming of the music also appeared online and it features the scene where Beyoncé throws her cigar in the car.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/bizarre/1965485/Beyonce-films-action-packed-scenes-in-new-video-for-Diva.html|title=Beyonce goes out with a bang|work=[[The Sun (United Kingdom)|The Sun]]|publisher=[[News International]]|first=Gordon|last=Smart|authorlink=Gordon Smart|date=2011-01-12|accessdate=2013-05-11}}</ref>
In her 2003 music video for "[[Crazy in Love (Beyoncé Knowles song)|Crazy in Love]]" (2003), Beyoncé's husband (then boyfriend) Jay-Z throws a lighter on the ground, which ignites a trail of petrol to a car. According to a ''[[Daily Mail]]''{{'}}s reporter, that particular scene bears resemblance to the climax of "Diva"{{'}}'s video, where Beyoncé lights a cigar and throws the still lit lighter at a car, prompting it to explode into flames. The same location under a bridge in downtown Los Angeles was chosen for the shoot.<ref name="dailymail">{{cite news |title=Copycat Beyoncé strikes again... but this time she's borrowing her husband Jay-Z's moves |url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1108222/Copycat-Beyonc-strikes--time-shes-borrowing-husband-Jay-Zs-moves.html |work=[[Daily Mail]] |publisher=[[Daily Mail and General Trust]] |date=2009-01-07 |accessdate=2011-02-11}}</ref> The video for "Diva" premiered on the [[iTunes Store]] on December 23, simultaneously with the one for "Halo".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewRoom?fcId=300593719&id=1&v0=WWW-NAUS-ITUWEEKLY-STARTPAGE |title='Diva' music video on iTunes |publisher=[[iTunes Store]] (US). [[Apple Inc]] |date=2008-12-23 |accessdate=2010-12-10}}</ref> It was included on Beyoncé's remix album with videography, ''[[Above and Beyoncé – Video Collection & Dance Mixes|Above and Beyoncé]]'' (2009).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.beyonceonline.com/us/news/beyonc%C3%A9-release-above-and-beyonce-video-collection-dance-mixes |title=Beyoncé to Release Above and Beyoncé - Video Collection & Dance Mixes! |publisher=Beyoncé Knowles Official Website |date=2009-05-26 |accessdate=2009-11-30 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120314145646/http://www.beyonceonline.com/us/news/beyonc%C3%A9-release-above-and-beyonce-video-collection-dance-mixes |archivedate=2012-03-14 |df= }}</ref> A behind-the-scenes footage of the filming of the music also appeared online and it features the scene where Beyoncé throws her cigar in the car.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/bizarre/1965485/Beyonce-films-action-packed-scenes-in-new-video-for-Diva.html|title=Beyonce goes out with a bang|work=[[The Sun (United Kingdom)|The Sun]]|publisher=[[News International]]|first=Gordon|last=Smart|authorlink=Gordon Smart|date=2011-01-12|accessdate=2013-05-11}}</ref>


===Synopsis===
===Synopsis===
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==Live performances==
==Live performances==
Although Beyoncé did not perform "Diva" on televised appearances, the song was a part of her [[set list]] on the [[I Am... World Tour]] (2009-2010).<ref name="rolltour">{{cite web|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/beyonce-brings-hits-jay-z-to-i-am-tour-opener-in-new-york-20090622|title=Beyonce Brings Hits, Jay-Z to "I Am..." Tour opener in New York|first=Caryn|last=Ganz|work=Rolling Stone|publisher=Wenner Media|accessdate=2011-03-29|date=2009-06-22}}</ref> Eventually, it was included on her 2010 live album, ''[[I Am... World Tour (album)|I Am... World Tour]]'' as the twelfth song.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.amazon.de/dp/B00496OIYK |title=I Am...World Tour |publisher=Amazon Germany. Amazon Inc |accessdate=2010-12-10}}</ref> The performance of "Diva" during her I Am... World Tour features Beyoncé performing the song while being backed up by six dancers (four of which are golden mannequins). She sports a leopard print glow-in-the-dark leotard, black trenchcoat, leopard print stockings, high heels and leopard-print sunglasses. She would remove the trenchcoat during the performance. Alice Jones of ''[[The Independent]]'' felt that "she sings her heart out" during the electro hook of "Diva".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/reviews/beyonc-02-arena-london-1691069.html|title=Beyoncé, 02 Arena, London|work=[[The Independent]]|publisher=Independent Print Limited|first=Alice|last=Jones|date=2009-05-27|accessdate=2011-12-25}}</ref> In May, 2012, Beyoncé performed "Diva" during her [[Revel Presents: Beyoncé Live]] [[revue]] in [[Atlantic City, New Jersey]], United States' [[entertainment]] [[resort]], [[hotel]], [[casino]] and [[spa]], [[Revel Atlantic City|Revel]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Sheridan|first=Emily|title='Feels so good to be back home on stage': Beyonce shows off her post-baby curves as she performs for first time since Blue's birth|url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2150267/Beyonce-Atlantic-City-concert-Singer-performs-1st-time-Blues-birth.html|work=[[Daily Mail]]|publisher=[[Associated Newspapers]]|archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/query?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dailymail.co.uk%2Ftvshowbiz%2Farticle-2150267%2FBeyonce-Atlantic-City-concert-Singer-performs-1st-time-Blues-birth.html&date=2012-05-27|archivedate=2012-05-28|date=2012-05-26|accessdate=2012-06-13}}</ref><ref name="village">{{cite web|url=http://blogs.villagevoice.com/music/2012/05/beyonce_ovation_revel_may_26_review.php|title=Live: Beyoncé Brings The House Down At Atlantic City's Newest Casino|work=The Village Voice|publisher=Village Voice Media|first=Maura|last=Johnston|date=2012-05-27|accessdate=2012-06-13}}</ref> Maura Johnston of ''The Village Voice'' noted that the song was one of the "dancefloor-fillers" performed during the revue.<ref name="village" /> Rebecca Thomas writing for MTV News, noted that Beyoncé transformed in Sasha Fierce for the performance of the song.<ref name="thomas">{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1685932/beyonce-michelle-obama-atlantic-city.jhtml|title=Beyonce Serenades Michelle Obama, Cements Comeback In Atlantic City|publisher=MTV News. MTV Networks|first=Rebecca|last=Thomas|date=2012-05-27|accessdate=2012-06-13}}</ref> On October 7, 2012, Beyoncé appeared at Jay-Z's concert at the [[Barclays Center]] and performed "Diva", "Crazy in Love" and "Young Forever".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://music-mix.ew.com/2012/10/08/beyonce-joins-jay-z-onstage-for-crazy-in-love-and-forever-young-video/|title=Beyonce joins Jay-Z onstage for 'Crazy in Love' and 'Young Forever' -- VIDEO|work=Entertainment Weekly|publisher=Time Inc|first=Erin|last=Strecker|date=2012-10-08|accessdate=2012-10-10}}</ref>
Although Beyoncé did not perform "Diva" on televised appearances, the song was a part of her [[set list]] on the [[I Am... World Tour]] (2009-2010).<ref name="rolltour">{{cite web|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/beyonce-brings-hits-jay-z-to-i-am-tour-opener-in-new-york-20090622|title=Beyonce Brings Hits, Jay-Z to "I Am..." Tour opener in New York|first=Caryn|last=Ganz|work=Rolling Stone|publisher=Wenner Media|accessdate=2011-03-29|date=2009-06-22}}</ref> Eventually, it was included on her 2010 live album, ''[[I Am... World Tour (album)|I Am... World Tour]]'' as the twelfth song.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.amazon.de/dp/B00496OIYK |title=I Am...World Tour |publisher=Amazon Germany. Amazon Inc |accessdate=2010-12-10}}</ref> The performance of "Diva" during her I Am... World Tour features Beyoncé performing the song while being backed up by six dancers (four of which are golden mannequins). She sports a leopard print glow-in-the-dark leotard, black trenchcoat, leopard print stockings, high heels and leopard-print sunglasses. She would remove the trenchcoat during the performance. Alice Jones of ''[[The Independent]]'' felt that "she sings her heart out" during the electro hook of "Diva".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/reviews/beyonc-02-arena-london-1691069.html|title=Beyoncé, 02 Arena, London|work=[[The Independent]]|publisher=Independent Print Limited|first=Alice|last=Jones|date=2009-05-27|accessdate=2011-12-25}}</ref> In May, 2012, Beyoncé performed "Diva" during her [[Revel Presents: Beyoncé Live]] [[revue]] in [[Atlantic City, New Jersey]], United States' [[entertainment]] [[resort]], [[hotel]], [[casino]] and [[spa]], [[Revel Atlantic City|Revel]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Sheridan|first=Emily|title='Feels so good to be back home on stage': Beyonce shows off her post-baby curves as she performs for first time since Blue's birth|url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2150267/Beyonce-Atlantic-City-concert-Singer-performs-1st-time-Blues-birth.html|work=[[Daily Mail]]|publisher=[[Associated Newspapers]]|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/query?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dailymail.co.uk%2Ftvshowbiz%2Farticle-2150267%2FBeyonce-Atlantic-City-concert-Singer-performs-1st-time-Blues-birth.html&date=2012-05-27|archivedate=2012-05-27|date=2012-05-26|accessdate=2012-06-13|deadurl=yes|df=}}</ref><ref name="village">{{cite web|url=http://blogs.villagevoice.com/music/2012/05/beyonce_ovation_revel_may_26_review.php|title=Live: Beyoncé Brings The House Down At Atlantic City's Newest Casino|work=The Village Voice|publisher=Village Voice Media|first=Maura|last=Johnston|date=2012-05-27|accessdate=2012-06-13|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120529031543/http://blogs.villagevoice.com/music/2012/05/beyonce_ovation_revel_may_26_review.php|archivedate=2012-05-29|df=}}</ref> Maura Johnston of ''The Village Voice'' noted that the song was one of the "dancefloor-fillers" performed during the revue.<ref name="village" /> Rebecca Thomas writing for MTV News, noted that Beyoncé transformed in Sasha Fierce for the performance of the song.<ref name="thomas">{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1685932/beyonce-michelle-obama-atlantic-city.jhtml|title=Beyonce Serenades Michelle Obama, Cements Comeback In Atlantic City|publisher=MTV News. MTV Networks|first=Rebecca|last=Thomas|date=2012-05-27|accessdate=2012-06-13}}</ref> On October 7, 2012, Beyoncé appeared at Jay-Z's concert at the [[Barclays Center]] and performed "Diva", "Crazy in Love" and "Young Forever".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://music-mix.ew.com/2012/10/08/beyonce-joins-jay-z-onstage-for-crazy-in-love-and-forever-young-video/|title=Beyonce joins Jay-Z onstage for 'Crazy in Love' and 'Young Forever' -- VIDEO|work=Entertainment Weekly|publisher=Time Inc|first=Erin|last=Strecker|date=2012-10-08|accessdate=2012-10-10}}</ref>


==Cover versions==
==Cover versions==
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| Brazil (''[[Billboard Brasil|Billboard]]'' [[Brasil Hot 100 Airplay|Hot 100]])<ref>{{cite web|url=http://musica.uol.com.br/ultnot/2010/02/10/beyonce-encerra-nesta-noite-em-salvador-turne-assistida-por-quase-115-mil-brasileiros.jhtm |title=Beyoncé reúne 164 mil pessoas em sua primeira turnê pelo Brasil|publisher=[[Universo Online]] |date=2010-02-10 |accessdate=2012-11-15 |language=Portuguese}}</ref>
| Brazil (''[[Billboard Brasil|Billboard]]'' [[Brasil Hot 100 Airplay|Hot 100]])<ref>{{cite web |url=http://musica.uol.com.br/ultnot/2010/02/10/beyonce-encerra-nesta-noite-em-salvador-turne-assistida-por-quase-115-mil-brasileiros.jhtm |title=Beyoncé reúne 164 mil pessoas em sua primeira turnê pelo Brasil |publisher=[[Universo Online]] |date=2010-02-10 |accessdate=2012-11-15 |language=Portuguese |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/6Gm710Aag?url=http://musica.uol.com.br/ultnot/2010/02/10/beyonce-encerra-nesta-noite-em-salvador-turne-assistida-por-quase-115-mil-brasileiros.jhtm |archivedate=2013-05-21 |df= }}</ref>
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{{singlechart|New Zealand|26|artist=Beyoncé|song=Diva|accessdate=2011-12-25}}
{{singlechart|New Zealand|26|artist=Beyoncé|song=Diva|accessdate=2011-12-25}}
|-
|-
| [[Gaon Chart|South Korea International Singles Chart]]<ref name="sotu">{{cite web|url=http://gaonchart.co.kr/main/section/online/download/list.gaon?nationGbn=E |title=South Korea Gaon International Chart |publisher=[[Gaon Chart]] |accessdate=August 20, 2011 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/6FRm3Uvas?url=http%3A%2F%2Fgaonchart.co.kr%2Fmain%2Fsection%2Fonline%2Fdownload%2Flist.gaon%3FnationGbn%3DE |archivedate=March 28, 2013 |df= }}</ref>
| [[Gaon Chart|South Korea International Singles Chart]]<ref name="sotu">{{cite web |url=http://gaonchart.co.kr/main/section/online/download/list.gaon?nationGbn=E |title=South Korea Gaon International Chart |publisher=[[Gaon Chart]] |accessdate=August 20, 2011 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/6FRm3Uvas?url=http://gaonchart.co.kr/main/section/online/download/list.gaon?nationGbn=E |archivedate=March 28, 2013 |df= }}</ref>
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!scope="row"|German Singles Chart<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.viva.tv/Charts/Detail/id/2187547/part/0/name/VIVA+Single+Jahrescharts+2009|title=Charts Year End: German Singles Chart|accessdate=January 15, 2011|publisher=[[Viva (TV station)|Viva]]. [[Media Control Charts]]}}</ref>{{Ref label|note_a1|A|}}
!scope="row"|German Singles Chart<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.viva.tv/Charts/Detail/id/2187547/part/0/name/VIVA+Single+Jahrescharts+2009|title=Charts Year End: German Singles Chart|accessdate=January 15, 2011|publisher=[[Viva (TV station)|Viva]]. [[Media Control Charts]]|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/66y9kGgPN?url=http://www.viva.tv/charts|archivedate=April 16, 2012|df=}}</ref>{{Ref label|note_a1|A|}}
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==External links==
==External links==
{{Wikipedia books|I Am... Sasha Fierce}}
{{Wikipedia books|I Am... Sasha Fierce}}
*[http://www.beyonceonline.com/ Beyoncé's Official Website]
*[https://www.webcitation.org/68Eb7PZQJ?url=http://www.beyonceonline.com/us/home Beyoncé's Official Website]
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNM5HW13_O8 Official music video] at [[YouTube]]
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNM5HW13_O8 Official music video] at [[YouTube]]



Revision as of 13:59, 11 September 2017

"Diva"
Song

"Diva" is a song by American singer and songwriter Beyoncé. The song was written and produced by Shondrae "Bangladesh" Crawford, Sean Garrett, and Beyoncé herself for her third studio album I Am... Sasha Fierce (2008). It was released as the album's third overall single in the United States alongside the third international single "Halo". "Diva" is an R&B song, which is set in a hip hop groove, and carries a stuttering beat. Its lyrics deliver messages of independence and female empowerment. The song boasts a beat and a bassline similar to those of another Bangladesh 2008 production, "A Milli" by American rapper, Lil Wayne; critics coined "Diva" as a "female companion" to the latter.

"Diva" received mixed to positive reviews from critics, who had polarized opinions concerning its affiliation with "A Milli". Despite being released to rhythmic and urban radios only in the US, the song peaked at number 19 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, topped the US Hot Dance Club Play chart, and attained a high point of number three on the US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. "Diva" was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), denoting shipment of 500,000 copies. Although it was only officially released in the US, the song appeared on the singles charts in Australia, Ireland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

The accompanying music video for "Diva" was directed by Melina Matsoukas. It shows the singer and backup dancers in a warehouse, and presents a choreography similar to that of her previous single "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" (2008). Beyoncé also appears in different Thierry Mugler couture pieces. The video received mixed response from critics, who were not pleased by its concept as they believed it portrayed Beyoncé's alter ego Sasha Fierce ineffectively. It was ranked at number 13 on BET's Notarized: Top 100 Videos of 2009 countdown. Although Beyoncé did not perform the song in any televised appearances, it was a part of her set list on the I Am... World Tour (2009–10) and her revue show, Revel Presents: Beyoncé Live (2012).

Background and release

Keyshia Cole (pictured) initially declined to record "Diva"

"Diva" was written and produced by Beyoncé, Shondrae "Bangladesh" Crawford, and Sean Garrett.[1] According to an interview that Bangladesh gave with Rap-Up, the song was originally intended to be included on the track-listing of his own mixtape[2] after choosing a female artist to contribute vocals to "Diva".[2] However, he decided to play the song to American R&B singer Keyshia Cole, who liked the beat, but not the whole track. She eventually declined to record the song, but later said she would sing the song, however, this time Beyoncé also wanted it for her then upcoming album.[3] Bangladesh ultimately gave "Diva" to Beyoncé and composed another song for Cole.[2] About one month after the release of I Am... Sasha Fierce, American R&B singer Ciara, who was working on her third studio album, Fantasy Ride (2009), remixed "Diva", which was supposed to be included on her Fantasy Ride Mixtape.[4]

"Ego" and "Halo" were initially planned for simultaneous release in the US, following the 2008 dual lead singles "If I Were a Boy" and "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)".[5] However, the release of "Ego" was scrapped and replaced with "Diva",[6] which was taken from a different disc of I Am... Sasha Fierce to "Halo"; the intention was to demonstrate the concept that Beyoncé has conflicting personalities.[7][8] "Diva" added to urban contemporary radio[9] and rhythmic contemporary radios playlists,[10] while "Halo" was sent to contemporary hit radio on January 20, 2009.[11] In Germany, "Diva" was featured as the B-side to "Halo" single.[12] Upon its release, contemporary music critics noted many similarities between Beyoncé's "Diva" and Lil Wayne's 2008 song "A Milli"; both feature a similar beat produced by Bangladesh.[13][14][15] In an interview with MySpace, Beyoncé agreed that "Diva" is the woman's equivalent to "A Milli". However, she stated that it was not consciously.[16] "Diva" eventually became to be known as the feminine companion to "A Milli".[8][17]

Composition and lyrical interpretation

"Diva" is an R&B and hip hop song, which is composed in a moderate tempo in the key of E major.[18][19] It carries a stuttering beat,[20] which is accompanied by a slow-rolling and heavy bass-pumping groove[8][21] with a jerky rhythm.[22] The song marks a change of direction for Beyoncé; she raps in candaces[22] over a Roland TR-808 machine, kick drums, and less instruments than her usual tracks.[17][23][24] As stated by Andy Kellman of Allmusic, "Diva" aurally resembles Beyoncé's own 2006 songs "Freakum Dress" and "Ring the Alarm".[25] Spence D. of IGN Music further compared its hip hop composition to Missy Elliott's earlier songs.[26] Adam Mattera of The Observer noted "Diva" could be "a perfect independent women anthem";[27] its lyrics reflect a message of courage and determination.[15] Similarly, Houston Chronicle's Joey Guerra called the song an "ode to female fabulousness".[19]

"Diva" features Beyoncé as the female protagonist speaking about being a diva.[28] Chipmunked vocal samples and overdubs aplenty make up the song's foundation. According to Nick Levine of Digital Spy, Beyoncé's alter ego Sasha Fierce also salutes her earning power and proclaims herself as the "number one diva in the game".[29] "Diva" begins with metallic kick drum complemented by Beyoncé's robotic sly vocal stutters as she sings: "I'm a, I'm a, a diva".[17][21] She then starts the first verse, chanting the dictionary definition of a diva.[14][20] She references her millions of dollars,[23] and raps, "I done got so sick and filthy with benjis, I can't spend it", channeling her alter ego.[30] After repeating the introductory lines, Beyoncé employs breathy drawls and robotic shouts to chant the chorus, where the lines, "Now diva is a female version of a hustla. Of a hustla. Of a, of a hustla", are looped.[8][31] In the second verse, she finds love in the club,[14] where she warns "Better have a six-pack in the cooler ... If you ain’t gettin[g] money, then you ain't got nothin[g] for me", and asks, "Where yo Boss at?"[31][32] After singing the third verse and the chorus for the third time, Beyoncé adopts her initial chipmunked vocals to end the song, chanting, "I'm a, I'm a, a diva".[21]

Critical reception

The song received mixed to positive reviews, with critics either praising or criticizing it being a female companion to "A Milli." Matos Michaelangelo of The A.V. Club said that "Diva" is a flagrant attempt to write a female version of "A Milli".[32] Leah Greenblat of Entertainment Weekly wrote that "Diva" can make a good feminine companion to "A Milli" thanks to their use of similar music instruments."[17] Noting its similarity to "A Milli", Andy Kellman of Allmusic picked out "Diva" as one of the three standout tracks from the album.[25] J. Freedom du Lac of The Washington Post chose it as one of the best songs on I Am... Sasha Fierce, calling it a "fun, [and] tuneless, gender-twisting play".[33] Colin McGuire of PopMatters picked "Diva" as the highlight of the album, noting its "Lil Wayne-inspired beat" and describing it as "cheeky". He further wrote it shows the singer's "impeccable street side... with enough attitude to make it work".[15]

Greg Kot of Chicago Tribune commented that the "menacing rhythm and chanted vocals" on "Diva", mark the album's biggest departure.[34] Adam Mazmanian of The Washington Times felt that the song was influenced by Beyoncé's husband, American rapper Jay-Z as it has a "bad soft-core gangster rap".[30] He also noted that its contains words that could get an "explicit" sticker by the chain stores.[30] Similarly, Daniel Brockman of The Phoenix remarked that the song is "particularly intriguing" as it progresses through "hard-knockish robbery scenarios" which does not resemble Beyoncé's clean public image.[35] Stacey Anderson of Spin magazine noted that "Diva" places a "startling, sexy snarl over window-rattling bass".[36] Christian Hoard of Rolling Stone noted Beyoncé turns out "modal-sounding hooks" over 808 bass on the song.[24] The Village Voice's Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond described Sasha Fierce as "suffer [sic] no such identity crisis, brassy, big-headed, confrontational, and witty...", reflected on "Diva".[37] James Reed of The Boston Globe described "Diva" as a "glitchy, bass-heavy thumper with the most ridiculous chorus of the year".[8] Reed nevertheless added that the song is "insanely catchy, but then, when you hear something looped incessantly, no matter how mindless, it's bound to stick".[8]

Mariel Concepcion of Billboard magazine noted that "Diva" is not something new, nevertheless it manages to be a radio-ready dance song.[38] Alex Thornton of AllHipHop noted that Beyoncé adopts a masculine character on "Diva" and that it is "something decent to bounce to at least".[39] The Observer's Adam Mattera described the song as a potential source of inspiration to drag queens, however concluded that it can also leave many persons confused and bewildered.[27] Alexis Petridis of The Guardian, also reviewed the song negatively, stating, "The sonic trickery on the most experimental track, 'Diva', isn't interesting enough to distract you from the absence of a tune."[40] Spence D. of IGN Music, felt that Beyoncé's rapping in the song was a "bad idea" and described the song as "awkward, [and] horribly dated."[26] On The Village Voice's 2009 Pazz & Jop singles list, "Diva" was ranked at number 224.[41] In 2013, John Boone and Jennifer Cady of E! Online placed the song at number nine on their list of ten best Beyoncé's songs.[42]

Chart performance

A brunette woman is standing in front of some stairs. She wears a super heroine costume, compound of a golden bra with red diamonds, silver pants, a long black coat and glasses. Behind her five people, dressed like golden mannequins, are standing in different positions.
Beyoncé performing "Diva" on her I Am... World Tour.

Initially, "Diva" charted on the Billboard's Bubbling Under Hot 100 Singles chart at number five.[43] For the week ending January 3, 2009, the song debuted on the main US Billboard Hot 100 chart at number 96,[44] and peaked at number 19 on the issue dated March 7, 2009,[45] becoming Beyoncé's sixteenth top twenty single on the chart.[43] "Diva" reached number one on the US Hot Dance Club Play chart on March 28, 2009, giving Beyoncé her ninth number one on the chart.[45][46] It peaked at number three on the US Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs chart from the week ending February 14, 2009 to the week ending March 14, 2009.[47] "Diva" was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on March 12, 2009.[48] As of October, 2012, it had sold 1,037,000 digital downloads in the US.[49]

Even though "Diva" was only officially released in the US, it managed to chart in other countries. In Australia, the song debuted at number 47 on March 15, 2009, becoming the fourth single from the I Am… Sasha Fierce to reach the top fifty of the ARIA Singles Chart.[50] and peaked at number 40 on April 12, 2009.[51] In New Zealand, "Diva" entered at number 32 on March 30, 2009[52] and peaked at number 26 for two non-consecutive weeks on April 6, 2009 and April 27, 2009.[53][54] On the UK Singles Chart, "Diva" rose from number 173[55] to number 73 on the UK Singles Chart on May 17, 2009 based on downloads alone.[56] The following week, it peaked at number 72.[57] In the Netherlands, "Diva" debuted at number 94 on the Mega Single Top 100 and peaked at number 73, based on downloads alone.[58]

Music video

Background and concept

A woman is walking away from an exploding car underneath a bridge. The entire image is in black and white, with the exception of the fireball rising from the car.
The music video for "Diva" used similar concepts to "Crazy in Love".

The accompanying music video for "Diva" was shot downtown Los Angeles on November 22, 2008, and was directed by Melina Matsoukas, who worked with Beyoncé for several music videos.[59] The music video is conceptually similar to that for "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" in the sense that it was filmed in black and white, shows Beyoncé as alter ego Sasha Fierce, who dons her metal glove and performs choreography with two back-up dancers with more formal leotards. Beyoncé wears a Gareth Pugh design in the video,[60] a custom Brian Lichtenberg bodysuit,[61] as well as a couple of vintage Thierry Mugler Haute Couture pieces, including a leather bodice and a reptilia inspired gown.[60] Diana Palkington of Daily Mail wrote that the gown gave Beyoncé a distinct appearance of a mermaid;[62] it was noted by another writer of the same publication that the same dress was worn by Jennifer Lopez in the past.[63]

In her 2003 music video for "Crazy in Love" (2003), Beyoncé's husband (then boyfriend) Jay-Z throws a lighter on the ground, which ignites a trail of petrol to a car. According to a Daily Mail's reporter, that particular scene bears resemblance to the climax of "Diva"''s video, where Beyoncé lights a cigar and throws the still lit lighter at a car, prompting it to explode into flames. The same location under a bridge in downtown Los Angeles was chosen for the shoot.[23] The video for "Diva" premiered on the iTunes Store on December 23, simultaneously with the one for "Halo".[64] It was included on Beyoncé's remix album with videography, Above and Beyoncé (2009).[65] A behind-the-scenes footage of the filming of the music also appeared online and it features the scene where Beyoncé throws her cigar in the car.[66]

Synopsis

The video begins with a dictionary definition of the word "diva", before cutting to a parking lot outside of a warehouse. Beyoncé, wearing a pair of "dangle shades", walks past a car full of mannequin parts into the warehouse. From here, she is accompanied by her two dancers and a variety of high fashion outfits. When she states "Diva's gettin' money..." she waves a fan made of $100 bills. During the bridge to the climax, Beyoncé dances on a single light and then during the climax, she is seen very glossy in another wardrobe choice dancing in robotic movements to the beat with gold punctuating the black and white scene. In one scene, Beyoncé is seen dancing robotically in front of a set of gold-tinted mannequins; while in another, she dances against a wall with two large chains hanging from the ceiling. During the last chorus, Beyoncé is in her last wardrobe change in front of window which is where the paparazzi had taken photos of her. At the end of the song, Beyoncé walks back out to the parking lot. She lights up a cigar and throws the lighter into the car, letting it explode. As she walks away, the intro to "Video Phone" (a track from I Am... Sasha Fierce) plays. The explosion retains its original fiery colors in contrast with the black and white.

Reception

A writer of Rolling Stone described the video as "quite a hot mess", further comparing the dancers with the ones from the video for "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)".[67] The writer finished the review calling it "a four-minute art-school film unworthy of her Sasha Fierceness".[67] Jennifer Cady of E! Online commented that the video was "all about being gritty and edgy, like strutting around a downtown L.A. warehouse in crazy designer fashion and chewing bubblegum. Hard-core style".[68] Cady further described the dance in the video for "Diva" as "way easier to learn than [the one] in 'Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)'".[68] However, she chose the C-3PO-inspired mannequins, the lack of Beyoncé's robot hand and the "obnoxious camera work or car explosion" as the worst parts of the video.[68] Entertainment Weekly's Michael Slezak commented: "The video has the production values of the clearance bin at Family Dollar, and yet somehow it works."[31] Slezak further described the set as a "trunk full of mannequins, Cylon-y fringed sunglasses, and angry-lady dancing on display in the accompanying video".[31] The video was ranked at number 13 on Black Entertainment Television's (BET's) Notarized: Top 100 Videos of 2009 countdown.[69]

Live performances

Although Beyoncé did not perform "Diva" on televised appearances, the song was a part of her set list on the I Am... World Tour (2009-2010).[70] Eventually, it was included on her 2010 live album, I Am... World Tour as the twelfth song.[71] The performance of "Diva" during her I Am... World Tour features Beyoncé performing the song while being backed up by six dancers (four of which are golden mannequins). She sports a leopard print glow-in-the-dark leotard, black trenchcoat, leopard print stockings, high heels and leopard-print sunglasses. She would remove the trenchcoat during the performance. Alice Jones of The Independent felt that "she sings her heart out" during the electro hook of "Diva".[72] In May, 2012, Beyoncé performed "Diva" during her Revel Presents: Beyoncé Live revue in Atlantic City, New Jersey, United States' entertainment resort, hotel, casino and spa, Revel.[73][74] Maura Johnston of The Village Voice noted that the song was one of the "dancefloor-fillers" performed during the revue.[74] Rebecca Thomas writing for MTV News, noted that Beyoncé transformed in Sasha Fierce for the performance of the song.[75] On October 7, 2012, Beyoncé appeared at Jay-Z's concert at the Barclays Center and performed "Diva", "Crazy in Love" and "Young Forever".[76]

Cover versions

In 2008, Ciara recorded a remix of "Diva" for a mixtape of her album Fantasy Ride (2009).[77] Alex Newell, Heather Morris, Jenna Ushkowitz and Darren Criss covered the song in the eponymous episode of the fourth season of the American television series Glee which aired on February 7, 2013.[78][79] In a review of the episode, Daniel Sperling of the website Digital Spy, described the performance of the song as one of the "plenty of fierce moments" adding that it was "posy, [and] pouty".[80]

Credits and personnel

Charts

Certifications

Region Certification Certified units/sales
United States (RIAA)[100] Gold 1,037,000^
Ringtone
United States (RIAA)[100] Gold 500,000^

* Sales figures based on certification alone.
^ Shipments figures based on certification alone.

Release history

Country Date Format Label
United States January 20, 2009 Urban contemporary radio[9] Columbia Records
Rhythmic contemporary radio[10]

See also

References

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