Alicia was shytting on Beyonce in the early mid 00's, like seriously.
Beyonce has only rejuvanated herself in her last two albums, but talent wise even though she can dance and has a better voice, she just doesn't have the ability to create songs like Alicia does.
Alicia wouldn't look out of place in any generation of black music, i still haven't heard a song from Beyonce as good as 'Diary', i think when it comes down to it, Alicia just has a better penchant for soulful black music, Beyonce still gives off a manafactured feel at times.