True story: When I was interviewing for the role of editor in chief of SELF—by far the most intense hiring process I’ve ever been through—I pulled up Homecoming on Netflix multiple times, usually the nights before the biggest conversations, when I really needed to hype myself up. I knew the combination of Beyoncé’s unmatched commitment to excellence and her incredible music would make me feel confident and capable…and, beyond that, unstoppable. Like I could lift a car over my head. Who the fuck do you think I am? Best revenge is your paper. I think I’m gettin’ too much money—everybody mad. I’mma keep running ‘cause a winner don’t quit on themselves.
Beyoncé’s unparalleled ability to motivate, coupled with her incredible range, is what makes her catalog such a great fit for working out. (There’s a reason she was a SELF cover star multiple times earlier in her career!) Below, you’ll find the Beyoncé songs we think are ideal for exercising, whether you’re running, lifting weights, or going for a walk. You’ll warm up to the smooth vibes of “Blow,” and then go right into “Crazy in Love” (which turned 20 this year—can you believe?), followed by some of my faves from Renaissance. There are also a couple of collabs sprinkled throughout, including “Telephone” with Lady Gaga, and the more recent “Savage” remix with Megan Thee Stallion. And, of course, there’s some Destiny’s Child—because the queen would never forget her roots, and because the first 10 seconds of “Bootylicious” still have the power to make my brain light up. Hope you’re ready for this jelly!
The full playlist:
- “Blow”
- “Crazy in Love” feat. Jay-Z
- “COZY”
- “ENERGY” feat. Beam
- “ALIEN SUPERSTAR”
- “Freedom – Homecoming Live”
- “Telephone” with Lady Gaga
- “PURE/HONEY”
- “Naughty Girl”
- “Survivor” (Destiny’s Child)
- “Get Me Bodied – Extended Mix”
- “Savage Remix” with Megan Thee Stallion
- “Love on Top”
- “Sorry”
- “MOVE” feat. Grace Jones and Tems
- “HEATED”
- “MY HOUSE”
- “Bootylicious”
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