Beyoncé’s ‘Formation’: Red Lobster Responds, Celebs Freak Out Over Hot Sauce
Beyoncé’s “Formation” nearly broke the internet on Saturday with the surprise release of the song and music video. The politically-charged track presents some serious social commentary and seems personal for Beyoncé.
Bustle reported that meaning behind the lyrics to Beyoncé’s “Formation” is all about slaying the haters. Carefully chosen words apply to her heritage, family, and what her fame means to her. Lyrics getting the most attention on social media include the following.
“Ya’ll haters corny with that Illuminati mess / Paparazzi catch my fly, and my cocky fresh
“I like my baby hair, with baby hair and afros. I like my negro nose with Jackson Five nostrils.
“I got hot sauce in my bag, swag.
“When he f**k me good I take his ass to Red Lobster, cause I slay.”
In the video, even her daughter Blue Ivy appears, adding a powerful, multi-generational touch.
It’s not just Beyoncé fans going crazy over hot sauce and cheddar biscuits. Celebrities are freaking out, too.
John Legend, Kendall Jenner, and Laverne Cox were just a few of the celebrities to take to Twitter and share their reactions to Beyoncé’s “Formation.” The raunchy lyrics about chain restaurant Red Lobster and carrying hot sauce received the most love.
?? take his ass to Red Lobster
— Kendall (@KendallJenner) February 6, 2016
When you realize your dad took your mom to red lobster every week pic.twitter.com/Re7PPLmbvI
— John Legend (@johnlegend) February 6, 2016
I got hot sauce in my bag swag! @Beyonce #formation #hot
— leann rimes cibrian (@leannrimes) February 7, 2016
Luckily the smelling sauce is next to the #hotsauce in my bag swag as I am on the way to #redlobster in Bey's chopper. #Formation
— Laverne Cox (@Lavernecox) February 6, 2016
Of course, Beyoncé’s sister, Solange, was also quick to show some love after the video dropped.
A medley of other celebrities also chimed in on social media.
GOT HOT SAUCE IN MY BAG. SWAG!!!
— JoJo. (@iamjojo) February 6, 2016
Beyonce! Beyonce! Beyonce! #redlobster #hotsauce #blackbillgates #Formation EVERYTHING!
— Gabrielle Union (@itsgabrielleu) February 6, 2016
When you find out she went to Red Lobster with her "friend" from work… pic.twitter.com/IIYBZxrq5R
— David Oliver (@doliversub13) February 7, 2016
Meanwhile, the Red Lobster social media team took over eight hours to jump on trending #RedLobster and capitalize on the hype.
"Cheddar Bey Biscuits" has a nice ring to it, don't you think? #Formation @Beyonce pic.twitter.com/QzgVtYAKNo
— Red Lobster (@redlobster) February 7, 2016
It was quite the lackluster effort from Red Lobster, and did nothing but disappoint. Not to mention it was way too late. Needless to say, Twitter users let them have it.
red lobster social media team deciding on the next tweet. pic.twitter.com/dy2l9mu1Qv
— sean. (@Seantaneous) February 6, 2016
You took all day to think and this is all you got? @redlobster
— Brandon Borders (@Brandon_Borders) February 7, 2016
Too late Red Lobster, ya'll had your chance https://t.co/63Kp4RwdJf
— Gifdsports (@gifdsports) February 7, 2016
Red Lobster waited 8 hours for a C+
— Trill Withers (@TylerIAm) February 7, 2016
Thankfully, Southwest Airlines seized the opportunity and brought their “A game” to Twitter.
Got hot sauce in your bag?
Checked: #SWAg
Carryon: 3.4 ounces or less.#Formation https://t.co/BMp35uLp0F— Southwest Airlines (@SouthwestAir) February 7, 2016
Beyoncé dropped the “Formation” single on Tidal as a free download on her artist page. She co-owns the streaming service with husband Jay Z and Rihanna.
It is rumored that “Formation” will be performed by Beyoncé during Super Bowl 50’s halftime show.
In case you missed it, check out Beyoncé’s “Formation” video (dirty lyrics).
[Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Global Citizen]