On #BeyDay last week, two of our writers got into an argument over the awesomeness (or not) of Beyonce Knowles. So of course we told them to have it out it writing.

Who do you agree with? 

NON-STAN

Before all y’all in the Beyhive come and get me, hear me out please?

1. Bey is unreal: And I don’t mean that in the awe-struck, heart eye emoji kind of way. Nicki Minaj’s loud and crazy  wigs and outfits showcased her bold personality and the fact that she’s got a lot to say, Katy Perry’s whimsical stage props and even Miley’s got her foam finger and her tongue out. Of course Yoncé doesn’t have to emulate any of these women or anyone else for that matter. But where’s her heart, her certain je ne sais quoi?

Beyoncé, in my opinion, has no personality to speak of. A quick glance at her Instagram or her site reveals little more than any look book would and her Twitter is in disuse. So seriously, who even is Beyoncé Knowles-Carter anyway?

2. She’s mostly hype: So yeah, yeah, yeah she dropped her self-titled album in 2013 with no prior warning or promotion and managed to top the Billboard 200 album chart. But what of the fact that the single that is believed to have had the most success topped at second place on the Hot 100? And sure the album did well, particularly for one with no prior promotion but how much of that was because it was a genuinely stunning album, and not just Beyoncé’s album?

3. Beyoncé’s content quality has dropped off of form. Need I explain? Just what is 7/11? Even beyond that, one ought never speak of classics and chart legends like Halo, If I Were a Boy or Best Thing I Never Had in the same breath as some of her newer material.

4. Her songs might push body confidence but I’m not sure the lifestyle choices she promotes do the same: this ‘vegan’ diet? Weh dat a go?

There’s nothing wrong with losing some weight (or even gaining some) but when your body is idolised and envied all around the world one should take care in how they promote or discuss any ‘need for weight loss’. As if a lot of us didn’t feel fat already….

Not to mention the fact that her workout secrets or tips and her diet has been criticised as ridiculous.

5. All the conspiracy theories surrounding B herself, the Beyhive and the buzz with the church of Beyoncé (I think it’s a legitimate thing, I kid you not) – intimidating and way too intense for lil ol’ me.

– Charlene Buchanan

STAN

All hail Queen Bey! It’s quite simple. Beyoncé Knowles Carter can do no wrong. At 34 years old, she is undeniably killing the music game; and with no competition whatsoever (sorry Riri fans). So what if she won’t change her blonde weave? Say something mean and her Beyhive will sting you to death. Learn from Keri Hilson’s mistake and the death of her dismal career.

Why am I such a stan?

Firstly, who runs the world? Girls! Bey is a feminist and I might be one too, she’s out there representing us females who lack the vocal prowess. With songs like ‘Flawless’ and ‘Who Run The World?’, you can’t help but feel powerful.

Secondly, with vocal range like that I can’t help but be a stan. From the days of Destiny’s Child and movies such as Dream Girls and The Fighting Temptations, it was obvious that Yoncé was uber talented. She has yet to disappoint; like fine wine she gets better with age.

Thirdly, she is drama free, Bey’s name is free from all altercations. She just sits on her throne overseeing all things while us stans demolish all acts of treason.

Fourthly, she and Jay are relationship goals. It is imperative that they host a seminar, “power couple 101”. Along with little Blue Ivy, they are the cutest family ever. You know it too so stop hating.

Finally, I’m a stan simply because Bey is Bae, she is just gorgeous, ethereal even! She has a voice that causes angels to huff with envy. All hail Queen Bey.

-Rashida Byfield