I Was Here (album)

I Was Here is the fifth studio album by American singer Beyoncé, released on August 12, 2011, by Parkwood Entertainment and Columbia Records. Named after a track on the album, I Was Here explores themes of legacy, love, and identity. Musically, it blends R&B with pop, soul, and electronic influences.

The album's development involved a variety of producers and songwriters, including The-Dream, Tricky Stewart, Shea Taylor, and Frank Ocean. Beyoncé aimed to create a diverse sound that reflected different aspects of her artistry.

I Was Here spawned four official singles: "Run the World (Girls)," "Best Thing I Never Had," "Countdown," and "Love On Top." "Run the World (Girls)" generated controversy upon release for its strong feminist message and aggressive sound. However, "Best Thing I Never Had" became a commercially successful ballad. "Love On Top" reached number one in several countries, including Australia.

Upon its release, I Was Here received generally positive reviews from music critics, who praised Beyoncé's vocal performance, the album's themes, and its experimental sound. However, some critics found the album inconsistent. I Was Here debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart in the United States, making Beyoncé the third female artist to have her first four studio albums debut at number one. It also reached the top of the charts in several other countries.

Beyoncé promoted I Was Here with live performances and television appearances. Notably, she performed "I Was Here" at the United Nations General Assembly Hall in New York City to support World Humanitarian Day. A live concert film, Live at Roseland: Elements of 4, documenting her four-night performance series at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City, was released in November 2011. The album has been certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).