"Love on Top" is a song by American recording artist Beyoncé Knowles from her fourth studio album 4 (2011). It was written by Knowles, Terius Nash and Shea Taylor; and production was handled by Knowles and Taylor. Knowles took inspiration from her state of mind while playing Etta James. A throw-back to the 1980s music, the up-tempo R&B song exhibits similar styles of Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, Anita Baker, Whitney Houston, Diana Ross and The Jackson 5. While incorporating six key changes, Knowles also adopts her high range when repeating the song's chorus towards the end of the song. She sings about a man who she can always call, even after facing grief and hard work, finally earning his love and respect.
"Love on Top"'s musical composition, as well as Knowles' vocals and versatility, surprised critics. In July 2011, the song charted at number three for three consecutive weeks in South Korea. Knowles also sang "Love on Top" at 2011 MTV Video Music Awards, announcing her pregnancy at the end of her live performance. This caused the upsurge of the song on to several charts worldwide. It appeared at number 75 in the United Kingdom and at number 14 in New Zealand. The song also debuted at number 20 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming the second highest debut of Knowles' career as a solo artist. It has so far peaked at number 20 in Australia and was certified platinum by the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA).
"Love on Top"'s musical composition, as well as Knowles' vocals and versatility, surprised critics. In July 2011, the song charted at number three for three consecutive weeks in South Korea. Knowles also sang "Love on Top" at 2011 MTV Video Music Awards, announcing her pregnancy at the end of her live performance. This caused the upsurge of the song on to several charts worldwide. It appeared at number 75 in the United Kingdom and at number 14 in New Zealand. The song also debuted at number 20 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming the second highest debut of Knowles' career as a solo artist. It has so far peaked at number 20 in Australia and was certified platinum by the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA).
