It has also been covered by other artists, such as Barbra Streisand and Richard Marx, and included on several of King's live albums.

[2] Rolling Stone Magazine critic Jon Landau describes "Beautiful" as an "uptempo song.

"[3] The lyrics reflect themes present throughout the Tapestry album, such as the importance of self-esteem and positive outlook.

[4] The message is emphasized by setting the verses in a minor key and to a straightforward rhythm and singing at a relatively low pitch.

[3][4] The refrain, describes the need for optimism and self-esteem to be successful, and is reinforced by being set in a major key and to a syncopated rhythm and at a higher pitch.

[4] Rolling Stone Album Guide critic Mark Coleman states that King's performance "rescues 'Beautiful' from the sentimental deep end.