Beyoncé

"XO" is a song by American recording artist Beyoncé Knowles from her fifth studio album, Beyoncé (2013). The song was released worldwide on December 16, 2013 as the lead contemporary hit radio single from the album. The American songwriter Terius "The-Dream" Nash wrote the song in collaboration with Ryan Tedder and Knowles, while the production was handled by Nash, Tedder, Knowles, with additional production from Hit-Boy and HazeBanga. Backed by a "jittery keyboards" and synthesizers, it is a mid-tempo pop track that incorporates elements of electronic music.

A music video was filmed for the song in Coney Island and was directed by Terry Richardson. Knowles also performed the song during the last stops of the North American leg on The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour in December, 2013.

"XO" contains an audio sample from Space Shuttle Challenger disaster, the use of which was heavily criticized by the families of the lost crew, NASA, and the media. Knowles released a statement saying that the song "was recorded with the sincerest intention to help heal those who have lost loved ones," and that the sample was included as a tribute to the Challenger crew.

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