Crazy in Love

"Crazy in Love" was released on May 18, 2003, serving as the lead single from Beyoncé's debut solo album, Dangerously in Love. This track, co-written by Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and producer Rich Harrison, famously samples The Chi-Lites' 1970 song "Are You My Woman (Tell Me So)", which also led to a songwriting credit for Eugene Record. The song blends contemporary R&B, pop, and hip-hop, underscored by strong soul and funk influences from its sample.

The lyrics portray an overwhelming romantic infatuation that causes the narrator to behave uncharacteristically. Upon its release, "Crazy in Love" rapidly achieved global success. It dominated the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States for eight weeks and also secured the number one position on the UK singles chart and the European Hot 100. The song reached number two in Australia, Canada, Hungary, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Spain, and appeared in the top 10 in many other countries. It was recognized as the 40th biggest-selling record of the 2000s in the US.

Critical reception was largely positive, with praise directed at its production, Jay-Z's contribution, and Beyoncé's vocal performance, particularly the memorable "uh-oh uh-oh" hook. The song earned two Grammy Awards at the 46th Annual Grammy Awards: Best R&B Song and Best Rap/Sung Collaboration. It is widely considered a pivotal song that propelled Beyoncé to superstardom. In 2024, Rolling Stone included it at number 16 on its updated list of the "500 Greatest Songs of All Time". The music video, directed by Jake Nava, showcases dynamic dance sequences and won three MTV Video Music Awards in 2003, including Best Female Video and Best R&B Video. "Crazy in Love" has become a consistent highlight in Beyoncé's live performances, featured in every one of her headlining tours, and was acknowledged by ASCAP as one of the most performed songs of 2004. [edit]