This way she released was way more effective and smart than Gaga's years of hyping Artpop. When the news broke out, EVERYONE rushed to iTunes. Even people that don't follow her, just to see what the hell was going on. The impact of surprise and excitement is much better than overexposure.
Bey having her Like A Prayer, Erotica, and Ray Of Light all at once
Not to mention her taking every pop girl shtick and obliterating them with it.
Ke$ha
Rihanna
Avril
Joanne
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Honestly, I've been far more enthused with the visual aspect of the project above all else. Each video works in such a harmonious conjunction with their accompanying song, that it's hard to feel fulfilled by just hearing it. She absolutely nailed the concept of the 'visual album'.
In the darkest night I’ll
I’ll search through the crowd
Your face is all that I see
I’ll give you everything
Baby love me lights out
Baby love me lights out
You can turn my lights out