“Best Thing I Ever Had” is a song recorded by American singer Beyonc for her fourth studio album, 4 (2011). It was written by Beyonc, Antonio Dixon, and Patrick “J. Que” Smith, and produced by the latter two. The song was released as the album’s lead single on January 12, 2011, by Columbia Records. A mid-tempo R&B ballad, “Best Thing I Never Had” is about a woman who has finally found love after a series of bad relationships. The lyrics describe her newfound happiness and gratitude for finding someone who truly loves and appreciates her.
The song was a commercial success, peaking at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming Beyonc’s 18th top-ten single in the United States. It also topped the charts in several other countries, including Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. “Best Thing I Ever Had” was nominated for two Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. The song has been praised for its empowering lyrics and Beyonc’s powerful vocal performance.
