Even female singers in possession of the best talent and access to production understand the importance of sex appeal. It’s great marketing because we fall for it every time.
That rare group of women who own their sexuality and remain confident while turning viewers into thirst buckets hold a dear place in our…hearts. And from videos to seductive Instagram shoots, these 13 female musicians in bikini shoots harnessed the power of a great visual.
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Photo: Interscope/Imani Entertainment
Beyonce for Sports Illustrated and her “Yonce” Video
In 2007, the suits at SI realized what anyone with basic cable knew since the “No, No, No” video: Beyonce was banging. Seven years and one childbirth later, the “Yonce” video was confirmation Queen B still had the killer curves to match her musical talent.
Christina Milian on Instagram
Let’s not pretend that Christina didn’t come on the scene rocking a bikini in Ja Rule’s “Between Me And You.” The thickness has only progressed since “Dip It Low” and that King magazine cover. Thirst reached maximum levels when Christina went on a trip with Karrueche and flossed the goods on a beach. Lil Wayne’s a lucky man.
Rihanna for Esquire and on Instagram
Rihanna’s post-Breezy bad girl phase has provided hours of entertainment to men and women everywhere. Ri-Ri’s dropped down to her skivvies for GQ and Esquire, but the 2014 shoot for Esquire UK was particularly steamy. Of course, her 2014 shoot for Lui magazine offered both clothed and “au natural” versions.
Ciara on Instagram and DUB magazine
We’ll save that glorious Vibe photo shoot of Ciara in her birthday suit for another time. Ci-Ci kept it classy for Maxim, but that doesn’t mean young Future won’t be getting into fights years from now after one of his classmates says, “Man, your moms could get it.”
Nicki Minaj for GQ and on Instagram
If you follow Nicki on Instagram, you’re pretty much getting a daily display of the goods. But for those who prefer their thickness in print form, Nicki donned a few different bikini looks for the good people of GQ.
K. Michelle for Bobby V’s “Put It In” Video
BRUH. Some people catch feelings because K. Michelle’s cakes are paid for. That’s their problem, because in most cases, the end result is her still getting smashed to smithereens.
Tinashe for Kode and Instagram
Every time Tinashe goes on vacation, an angel gets its wings…or a pubescent teen locks himself in the bathroom for about 30 minutes.
Cassie on Instagram and for Complex.
Few interviews produced a more hilarious exchange than when Cassie attempted to tell Toshitaka Kondo she wasn’t pierced in certain places, when it was pretty obvious to anyone with at least one functional eye. Not that we’re complaining.
Ashanti on Instagram
Ashanti’s flossed the thunder from down under in the pages of King magazine, but we got plenty of impromptu photos when she vacationed in the Carribean and promptly started thirst-trapping. Who needs a subscription when it’s free on the IG?
photo: WENN
Mya at G5IVE Longue
Mya performed at an adult entertainment spot, but she didn’t exactly “perform.” Even if she didn’t hit the pole, the goods are still “like whoa” after all these years.
Kelly Rowland for King and Shape
The October 2013 issue of Shape magazine grace us with Miss Kelendria sharing her mammary upgrades and fitness tips with thirsty viewers.
Keyshia Cole for her “Believer” video
In 2014 Keyshia Cole used the best marketing tool possible. Her Point Of No Return album was supplemented by photo shoots showing she had not only lost all her baby weight but also toned up the original thickness in the process.
Trina for VIBE and Instagram
All you need to know about Trina’s King cover is that it was titled “Thicka than a Snicka.” We would imagine Trina is a bit more satisfying though.
Kat Graham for Terry Richardson and Instagram
Singer and Vampire Diaries beauty Kat Graham is seriously slept on. But a swimsuit deal with Ocean Pacific not only showcased her goodness, it was triple the fun. She posed alongside Brenda Song and Aly Michalka for the win.
