Eight moments that seem to suggest she is Mark Humphrey/AP Images Film's Most Awkward Couples How to Survive a Zombie Movie Unlikely Celebrity Feuds Beyoncé has become an icon, and in no small part this is due to her willingness to use her gender as a creative tool. The argument over whether the singer is a bona fide feminist or just a pop star cashing in on "girl power" has raged for years, but whatever side of the debate you land on, her message of empowerment, commitment to her craft, and control over her image and performance are undeniable.