Janelle Monáe

Lyrics

[Intro: Janelle Monáe]
Girl, this is crazy, let me tell you

[Verse 1: Janelle Monáe]
I can't believe all of the things they say about me ('Bout me)
Walk in the room they throwing shade left to right
They be like, "Ooh, she serving face"
And I just tell 'em cut me up and get down
They call us dirty 'cause we break all yo' rules down (Yeah)
And we just came to act a fool, is that all right? (Girl, that's alright)
They be like, "Ooh, let them eat cake"
But we eat wings and throw them bones on the ground

[Chorus: Janelle Monáe]
Am I a freak for dancing 'round? (Am I a freak?)
Am I a freak for getting down?
I'm cutting up, don't cut me down (Don't cut me, no)
Yeah, I wanna be, wanna be Queen (I just wanna be)

[Verse 2: Janelle Monáe]
Is it peculiar that she twerk in the mirror?
And am I weird to dance alone late at night? (Nah)
And is it true we're all insane? (Yeah)
And I just tell 'em, "No we ain't," and get down
I heard this life is just a play with no rehearsal
I wonder will this be my final act tonight
And tell me what's the price of fame?
Am I a sinner wit' my skirt on the ground?
[Chorus: Janelle Monáe]
Am I a freak for dancing 'round? (But am I a freak, hey)
Am I a freak for getting down? (Don't judge me)
I'm cutting up, don't cut me down (Judge me now)
Yeah, I wanna be, wanna be Queen

[Verse 3: Janelle Monáe]
Hey brother, can you save my soul from the devil?
Say is it weird to like the way she wear her tights? (But I like it)
And is it rude to wear my shades?
Am I a freak because I love watchin' Mary? (Maybe)
Hey sister, am I good enough for your heaven?
Say will your God accept me in my black and white?
Will he approve the way I'm made?
Or should I reprogram, deprogram and get down?

[Chorus: Janelle Monáe]
Am I a freak for dancing 'round?
Am I a freak for getting down? (Hey)
I'm cutting up, don't cut me down (Even when he cut you down you got to carry on)
Yeah, I wanna be, wanna be Queen

[Post-Chorus: Janelle Monáe]
Even if it makes others uncomfortable
I will love who I am
Even if it makes others uncomfortable
I will love who I am
[Verse 4: Erykah Badu]
Ooh, shake 'til the break of dawn
Don't mean to sing so tough, I can't take it no more
Baby, me and tuxedo groove
Pharaohs and E. Badu
Crazy in the black and white
We got the drums so tight
Baby, here comes your freedom song
Too strong, we movin' on
Baby, this melody will show you another way
Been 'droids for far too long
Come home and sing yo' song
But you gotta testify, because the booty don't lie
No, no, the booty don't lie, oh no, the booty don't lie
[Bridge: Janelle Monáe]
Yeah, yeah, let's flip it
I don't think they understand what I'm trying to say
Haha, yeah, uh, I asked a question like this

[Outro: Janelle Monáe]
Are we a lost generation of our people?
Add us to equations but they'll never make us equal
She who writes the movie owns the script and the sequel
So why ain't the stealing of my rights made illegal?
They keep us underground workin' hard for the greedy
But when it's time pay they turn around and call us needy
My crown too heavy like the Queen Nefertiti
Gimme back my pyramid, I'm trying to free Kansas City
Mixing masterminds like your name Bernie Grundman
Well I'ma keep leadin' like a young Harriet Tubman
You can take my wings but I'm still gonna fly
And even when you edit me the booty don't lie
Yeah, I'ma keep sangin', I'ma keep writin' songs
I'm tired of Marvin askin' me "What's Going On?"
March through the streets 'cause I'm willin' and I'm able
Categorize me, I defy every label
And while you're sellin' dope, we're gonna keep sellin' hope
We rising up now, you gotta deal you gotta cope
Will you be electric sheep? Electric ladies, will you sleep?
Or will you preach?

Are you ready to feel empowered and inspired? Look no further than "Q.U.E.E.N." by Janelle Monáe featuring Erykah Badu. This powerful anthem celebrates the strength and resilience of marginalized groups, shedding light on their struggles and triumphs. With its catchy beats, soulful vocals, and thought-provoking lyrics, this song is sure to leave a lasting impact on your heart and mind.

About Q.U.E.E.N.

"Q.U.E.E.N." is a song that holds a deeper meaning, as revealed by Janelle Monáe in an interview. The acronym stands for five marginalized groups - the Queer community, Untouchables, Emigrants, Excommunicated individuals, and Negroid people. This thoughtful representation showcases Janelle's commitment to raising awareness about societal issues and giving a voice to those who often go unheard.

The song's music video is a treat for the eyes as well. It transports you to a futuristic world where Janelle Monáe and Erykah Badu rebel against a rigid and oppressive system. With its vivid visuals and captivating storytelling, the video enhances the message of the song, making it even more impactful.

The beats of "Q.U.E.E.N." are infectious, blending elements of funk and soul with a modern twist. Janelle's smooth and dynamic vocals, combined with Erykah Badu's soulful contribution, create a harmonious blend that draws you in from the very beginning. The energy in this song is palpable, making it impossible not to groove along.

Lyrically, "Q.U.E.E.N." is a testament to Janelle Monáe's artistry and ability to tackle complex subjects with finesse. The lyrics are thought-provoking and poetic, giving listeners something to ponder on long after the song ends. Lines like "Categorize me, I defy every label" challenge societal norms and encourage individuality.

Janelle's smooth delivery and powerful presence take center stage in "Q.U.E.E.N." She exudes confidence and authenticity, inspiring listeners to embrace their true selves and stand up against injustice. The collaboration with Erykah Badu adds an extra layer of magic to the song, with their voices blending seamlessly.

One of the highlights of "Q.U.E.E.N." is its ability to create a sense of unity among listeners. The song embodies inclusivity and celebrates diversity, offering a space where people from different backgrounds can come together and find strength in each other. It serves as a reminder that everyone deserves to be heard and respected.

With its thought-provoking lyrics, catchy beats, and powerful vocals, "Q.U.E.E.N." by Janelle Monáe featuring Erykah Badu is more than just a song – it's a movement. It challenges societal norms, raises awareness about marginalized communities, and inspires listeners to be unapologetically themselves. So turn up the volume, let the music guide you, and join the empowering journey that "Q.U.E.E.N." offers.

• Release Date: September 6, 2013
• Artist: Janelle Monáe