7 Moments When Artists Transcended Into Musical Greatness

Music is one of the most beautiful expressions of true artistry. There are plenty of singers, songwriters and musicians in the world, but there are way fewer artists out here who truly live through their work and offer music from their soul.

Beyoncé has given an incredible amount of herself to her music and to all of us, but we recently experienced her most vulnerable and giving moment in her career to date.

She shocked the world in typical Beyoncé fashion when Lemonade hit HBO on Saturday and then Tidal. We all watched together as the former pop princess spread her queenly wings and ripped page after page out of her diary for us to witness. It was uncomfortable, it was beautiful, it was raw—everything you could request from Beyoncé, but you'd be content knowing that you'd only get one of those. Beyoncé gave us all three.

Her artistry is clearly so elevated that it has taken her superstar status to a place that doesn’t even have a name yet. Other artists have had that moment in their career when their star shone as brightly as it possibly could. Between Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston and Kendrick Lamar's breathtaking performances, many of us have been able to witness a few of these life-changing occasions.

Here are the moments where some of our favorites transcended beyond mere superstardom:

1. Michael Jackson’s Moonwalk.

2. Whitney Houston’s national anthem at the Super Bowl.

3. Diana Ross’ Central Park performance in the rain.

4. Kendrick Lamar’s Grammy performance.

5. Marvin Gaye’s sexy rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

6. Prince’s “Purple Rain.”

7. Ricky Martin’s “Cup of Life” Grammy performance.

When did your favorite artist transcend into musical greatness? Share in the comments below!

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