It’s no secret that among the Zodiac signs Virgos tend to be the most scrupulous and creative – traits that belong to the most successful artists of our time. When thinking of which public-facing artist truly embodies the sixth astrological sign, only Beyoncé comes to mind. Born on September 4th, 1981, Queen B is the archetypal Virgo, epitomising power, precision and perfection. The Houstonian proudly embraces her identity and has even dedicated dozens of lyrics, references and moments to her Earth sign. Just listen to her libidinous six-minute, post-disco declaration of her sexuality on ‘Virgo’s Groove‘.

When it comes to her artistry, Beyoncé’s attention to detail is second to none. From her pristine choreography and breathtaking vocals to her televisual flair, everything Beyoncé does in service of her art is carefully orchestrated: nothing is ever accidental. On December 13th 2013, Beyoncé made history, when she surprise-released her self-titled album without any prior announcement. The result was a timeless opus with 14 songs and no less than 17 magical music videos exploring themes of love, creative autonomy, sexuality and feminism. Nearly three years later, she released the groundbreaking visual album ‘Lemonade’, an intimate, unbridled look behind the veneer of her seemingly perfect marriage, and a reconciliation of her roots in the American South. 

All of Beyoncé’s projects scream Virgo in the best way possible. It’s in the way she exudes a subtle power. Like a true Virgo, her goal is not to be flashy or excessive, but to encourage an enquiring mind to look deeper. This icon’s craftsmanship merges meticulous creativity with heartfelt emotion. That’s why her legacy is everlasting. Could Virgos ask for a better spokesperson? 

As this dreamy season comes to an end, it’s time to revisit the ten most Virgo Beyoncé music videos. A hint: it’s all in the details.

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Partition

‘Partition’, the sexiest song off Beyoncé’s self-titled album, is the pinnacle of sensual femininity. The devil is in the details. In the accompanying video, Beyoncé plays a version of a femme fatale, seducing her man in an archive Thierry Mugler corset. Directed by Jake Nava, the video is full of visually arresting and suggestive scenes. Beyoncé paid homage to the Crazy Horse cabaret aesthetics and their striptease choreography. During the intense climax of the video, a silhouetted Bey writhes on a chair, and a French spoken-word segment pulled from a conversation in the dubbed version of the film The Big Lebowski speaks to how it feels to desire and be desired.

Run The World (Girls)

This anthem may be dedicated to women all over the world, but the video is a portrait of Beyoncé’s true Virgo prowess. Directed by Francis Lawrence, the visual for ‘Run The World (Girls)’, from underrated creative breakaway ‘4’, is Bey’s most pointed portrayal of female empowerment and leadership. As one of the leading figures in the music industry, Queen B knew exactly how to showcase resilience and power; the video’s dystopian, war-torn landscape set the militant tone as did the intricate dance sequences, and avant-garde looks.

XO

As resolute as a Virgo may be, beneath the tough exterior lies a reservoir of love and loyalty that needs to be given away. One of Beyoncé’s softest torch songs, ‘XO’, integrates yarns of dreamy declarations. The music video matches these sentiments, showcasing the singer in a more casual, carefree light, celebrating a brief moment away from the madness at the Coney Island amusement park in New York. The warm lighting and grainy filter reflect the track’s theme of living in the moment and embracing what life gives you with open arms. At one point, a relaxed Beyoncé invites a TMZ cameraman into the frame. A rare sight, indeed.

Diva

Returning to her natural state, a true Virgo never shies away from embracing her diva status. The Melina Matsoukas-directed video for ‘Diva’, from Bey’s 2009 dual-disc ‘I Am… Sasha Fierce’, visualises “the female hustler’s” need to be audacious. The monochromatic video is ripe with striking, futuristic aesthetics and costumed couture courtesy of Gareth Pugh and Thierry Mugler. It’s a high-camp visual feast that proves Beyoncé is the diva she’s singing about.

Me, Myself and I

Let’s go back to 2003 and revisit the emotionally-charged, post-breakup hit ‘Me, Myself and I’. Lifted from Beyoncé’s debut solo album ‘Dangerously In Love’, the accompanying visual directed by Rob Hoffman, showcases a bruised Bey dwelling in a reverie in a rain-soaked cityscape. Cleverly charting the heartbreak and ensuing transformation in reverse, we see her adorned in a lime green and white colorblock gown with a plunging neckline, reminding her ex-lover what he missed out on – the most Virgo thing to do. At the end of the day, ‘Me Myself And I’ is the only company this sign needs to keep.

Upgrade U

Another masterpiece directed by Melina Matsoukas, the 2006 visual for ‘Upgrade U’, a highlight off the ‘B’Day’ video anthology (Bey’s actual first visual album), is a flashy display of opulence and wealth. Beyoncé leaned into her alter-ego to show that despite the fast cars, big watches and nice clothes, the best upgrade a man could have is… her. Her boo, Jay-Z, raps and appears in a video sheathed in gold, further enhancing their power couple status. Nearly twenty years later, the message still stands strong.

Blow

‘Blow’ is a personal favourite. Everything about the video directed by Hype Williams, is a perfect representation of how a Virgo’s mind works. Set in an 80s-inspired arcade, the video celebrates nostalgic glamour under striking lights. An array of retro-inspired outfits, including leotards and neon makeup, creates a sense of whimsy echoed by the song’s funky production. As the visual progresses, Beyoncé pays homage to the softcore appeal of 70s disco, sending an innuendo-filled message to her chosen paramour. Bey’s ability to blend these two distinct styles is what makes this video a feast for the eyes to this day.

Dance For You

‘Dance For You’, directed by Diane Martel and released in 2011 as part of Beyoncé’s ‘4’ album, is a noir-inspired piece of cinema. Beyoncé once again plays the femme fatale, but this time she’s working her seductive magic on a detective in a dimly-lit, erotic setting. Wearing a satin dress over a black lingerie set, the vintage visual embodies the veiled Hollywood glamour of the 50s. The choreography is slower and more sensual than Bey’s sharp, staccato-like routines. It aids the titillating nature of a marathon song that rewards the one who can play the long game.

Kitty Kat

Although the video for ‘Kitty Kat’ is barely a minute long, the beehive never misses an opportunity to revisit this deep cut staple and its skittish aesthetic. Captured in 2007 by frequent collaborator Jake Nava, Beyoncé as a feline toying with her superimposed pussycat, is the pinnacle of camp glory in a career littered with them. The video serves as a prelude to the other fan favourite cut, ‘Green Light’, but the coquettish “I’m not feeling it” vibe proves ‘Kitty Kat’ stands on its own.

Work It Out

Playful, sexy, and irresistibly groovy, the Joseph Khan-directed video for ‘Work It Out’, from the Austin Powers in Goldmember soundtrack, highlights Beyoncé’s deep appreciation for all things retro. In the video, her character Foxxy Cleopatra wears a pair of bejewelled jeans with ‘Virgo’ emblazoned on the back – a personal emblem on her most prized asset. The dazzling backdrop channels the magnetic pull of the disco era, with its bold patterns, flashing lights, and Tina Turner meets Donna Summer bodily expression.  

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Words: Velvet Coke (@velvetcoke)