Meaning and Lyrics of AMERIICAN REQUIEM by Beyoncé

Song Lyrics meaning of AMERIICAN REQUIEM by Beyoncé

About Beyoncé

Beyoncé
Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter, known simply as Beyoncé, is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and record producer. Born on September 4, 1981, in Houston, Texas, she rose to fame in the late 1990s as the lead singer of Destiny’s Child, one of the best-selling girl groups of all time. Beyoncé later embarked on a successful solo career, becoming one of the most influential and acclaimed entertainers in the industry. One of Beyoncé’s notable songs is “American Requiеm,” showcasing her powerful vocals and poignant lyrics that often address social and political issues. This song is a testament to Beyoncé’s ability to combine meaningful storytelling with emotive performances, solidifying her reputation as a musical icon.

Meaning of AMERIICAN REQUIEM by Beyoncé

“American Requiem” by Beyoncé is a powerful and introspective song that delves into themes of change, identity, standing up for beliefs, and the complexities of heritage and acceptance.

The song starts with the acknowledgment that nothing truly ends and emphasizes the necessity of change for things to remain the same. These lines set the tone for a reflection on transformation and the dualities present in the American experience. The reference to “big ideas buried here” suggests the weight of history and unresolved issues that continue to shape society.

The chorus highlights the singer’s desire to be heard amidst the noise and distractions, questioning if others truly understand the message being relayed. The pre-chorus serves as a call for attention and contemplation, urging listeners to look closely at the world around them.

In the first verse, Beyoncé calls for unity and action, urging individuals to stand for something meaningful and face challenges with courage and love. The lyrics convey a sense of vulnerability and strength, emphasizing the need for authenticity and emotional connection in a world that often prioritizes superficiality.

The bridge presents a moment of internal reflection, as the singer contemplates the significance of her words and the importance of being understood. The repetition of “do you hear me when I say?” reinforces the longing for genuine communication and validation.

Verse 2 explores the singer’s personal journey and struggles with identity and belonging. References to her roots in Gadsden, Alabama, and family connections in Louisiana and Galveston evoke a sense of pride and defiance against stereotypes and prejudice. The lyrics celebrate resilience and the resilience needed to stay true to oneself in the face of criticism and rejection.

The song’s outro brings a sense of closure and solemnity, bidding farewell to past burdens and embracing a new chapter of self-discovery and liberation. The concept of an “American Requiem” suggests a symbolic funeral for outdated norms and superficial relationships, paving the way for personal growth and healing.

Overall, “American Requiem” by Beyoncé is a soul-stirring anthem that encourages introspection, empathy, and the courage to stand up for one’s beliefs and heritage in an ever-changing world.

Lyrics of AMERIICAN REQUIEM by Beyoncé

Intro
Nothin' really ends
For things to stay the same, they have to change again
Hello, my old friend
You change your name, but not the ways you play pretend
American Requiem
Them big ideas (Yeah), are buried here (Yeah)
Amen

Chorus
It's a lot of talkin' goin' on
While I sing my song
Can you hear me?
I said, "Do you hear me?"

Pre-Chorus
Looka there, looka there now
Looka there, looka there
Looka-looka, looka there, looka there
Looka-looka, looka there, looka there
Looka-looka, looka there, looka there (Oh)
Looka-looka, looka there, looka there (Yeah)

Chorus
It's a lotta chatter in here
But let me make myself clear (Oh)
Can you hear me? (Huh)
Or do you fear me? (Ow)

Verse 1
Can we stand for something?
Now is the time to face the wind (Ow)
Coming in peace and love, y'all
Oh, a lot of takin' up space
Salty tears beyond my gaze
Can you stand me?
(Can you stand me? Can you stand me? Can you stand me?)
Ooh, ah
Can we stand?
(Can you stand me? Can you stand me? Can you stand me?
Can you stand me? Can you stand me? Can you stand me?)
Can you stand with me?

Chorus
Can we stand for something?
Now is the time to face the wind
Now ain't the time to pretend
Now is the time to let love in

Bridge
Thinkin' to myself (Thinkin' to myself)
Oh, it's a lot of talkin' goin' on (Oh)
While I sing my song (Yeah)
Do you hear me when I say?
Do you hear me when I say? Ah

Pre-Chorus
Looka there, looka there
Looka, look
Looka-looka-looka-looka-looka
Looka-looka there, looka there
L-l-l-l-l-l-l-l-l-l-looka there
Oh, looka there, looka there
Looka there, looka there
(Can you stand me? Can you stand me? Can you stand me?)
L-L-L-L-L-L-L-L-L-L-L
(Can you stand me? Can you stand me? Can you stand me?)

Chorus
Can we stand for something?
Now is the time to face the wind (Now is the time to face the wind)
Now ain't the time to pretend
Now is the time to let love in (To let love in)
Together, can we stand?

Verse 2
Looka there, looka in my hand
The grandbaby of a moonshine man
Gadsden, Alabama
Got folk down in Galveston, rooted in Louisiana
Used to say I spoke, "Too country"
And the rejection came, said "I wasn't country 'nough"
Said I wouldn't saddle up, but
If that ain't country, tell me what is?
Plant my bare feet on solid ground for years
They don't, don't know how hard I had to fight for this
When I sang my song

Outro
(When I sang the song of Abraham)
(When the angels guide and take my hand)
(Oh, no)
Goodbye to what has been
A pretty house that we never settled in
A funeral for fair-weather friends
I am the one to cleanse me of my Father's sins
American Requiem
Them big ideas (Yeah) are buried here (Yeah)
Amen

Discography Beyoncé

COWBOY CARTER

Release: 2024-03-29
Label: Parkwood Entertainment/Columbia
Popularity: 👏👏👏👏
1. AMERIICAN REQUIEM
2. BLACKBIIRD
3. 16 CARRIAGES
4. PROTECTOR
5. MY ROSE
6. SMOKE HOUR ★ WILLIE NELSON
7. TEXAS HOLD ‘EM
8. BODYGUARD
9. DOLLY P
10. JOLENE
11. DAUGHTER
12. SPAGHETTII
13. ALLIIGATOR TEARS
14. SMOKE HOUR II
15. JUST FOR FUN
16. II MOST WANTED
17. LEVII’S JEANS
18. FLAMENCO
19. THE LINDA MARTELL SHOW
20. YA YA
21. OH LOUISIANA
22. DESERT EAGLE
23. RIIVERDANCE
24. II HANDS II HEAVEN
25. TYRANT
26. SWEET ★ HONEY ★ BUCKIIN’
27. AMEN
Tracklist Collapse

RENAISSANCE

Release: 2022-07-29
Label: Parkwood Entertainment/Columbia
Popularity: 👏👏👏👏
1. I’M THAT GIRL
2. COZY
3. ALIEN SUPERSTAR
4. CUFF IT
5. ENERGY (feat. Beam)
6. BREAK MY SOUL
7. CHURCH GIRL
8. PLASTIC OFF THE SOFA
9. VIRGO’S GROOVE
10. MOVE (feat. Grace Jones & Tems)
11. HEATED
12. THIQUE
13. ALL UP IN YOUR MIND
14. AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM
15. PURE/HONEY
16. SUMMER RENAISSANCE
Tracklist Collapse

The Lion King: The Gift [Deluxe Edition]

Release: 2020-07-31
Label: Parkwood Entertainment/Columbia
Popularity: 👏👏👏👏
1. BIGGER
2. FIND YOUR WAY BACK
3. DON’T JEALOUS ME
4. JA ARA E
5. NILE
6. MOOD 4 EVA (feat. Oumou Sangaré)
7. WATER
8. BROWN SKIN GIRL
9. KEYS TO THE KINGDOM
10. ALREADY
11. OTHERSIDE
12. MY POWER
13. SCAR
14. SPIRIT – From Disney’s “The Lion King”
15. BLACK PARADE – Extended Version
16. FIND YOUR WAY BACK – MELO-X Remix
17. BLACK PARADE
Tracklist Collapse
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COWBOY CARTER

Release: 2024-03-29
Label: Parkwood Entertainment/Columbia
Popularity: 👏👏👏👏
1. AMERIICAN REQUIEM
2. BLACKBIIRD
3. 16 CARRIAGES
4. PROTECTOR
5. MY ROSE
6. SMOKE HOUR ★ WILLIE NELSON
7. TEXAS HOLD ‘EM
8. BODYGUARD
9. DOLLY P
10. JOLENE
11. DAUGHTER
12. SPAGHETTII
13. ALLIIGATOR TEARS
14. SMOKE HOUR II
15. JUST FOR FUN
16. II MOST WANTED
17. LEVII’S JEANS
18. FLAMENCO
19. THE LINDA MARTELL SHOW
20. YA YA
21. OH LOUISIANA
22. DESERT EAGLE
23. RIIVERDANCE
24. II HANDS II HEAVEN
25. TYRANT
26. SWEET ★ HONEY ★ BUCKIIN’
27. AMEN
Tracklist Collapse

RENAISSANCE

Release: 2022-07-29
Label: Parkwood Entertainment/Columbia
Popularity: 👏👏👏👏
1. I’M THAT GIRL
2. COZY
3. ALIEN SUPERSTAR
4. CUFF IT
5. ENERGY (feat. Beam)
6. BREAK MY SOUL
7. CHURCH GIRL
8. PLASTIC OFF THE SOFA
9. VIRGO’S GROOVE
10. MOVE (feat. Grace Jones & Tems)
11. HEATED
12. THIQUE
13. ALL UP IN YOUR MIND
14. AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM
15. PURE/HONEY
16. SUMMER RENAISSANCE
Tracklist Collapse

The Lion King: The Gift [Deluxe Edition]

Release: 2020-07-31
Label: Parkwood Entertainment/Columbia
Popularity: 👏👏
1. BIGGER
2. FIND YOUR WAY BACK
3. DON’T JEALOUS ME
4. JA ARA E
5. NILE
6. MOOD 4 EVA (feat. Oumou Sangaré)
7. WATER
8. BROWN SKIN GIRL
9. KEYS TO THE KINGDOM
10. ALREADY
11. OTHERSIDE
12. MY POWER
13. SCAR
14. SPIRIT – From Disney’s “The Lion King”
15. BLACK PARADE – Extended Version
16. FIND YOUR WAY BACK – MELO-X Remix
17. BLACK PARADE
Tracklist Collapse
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