It's time for a "Renaissance."
Beyoncé's long-awaited seventh studio album, "Renaissance," was released at midnight Friday, following a leak just two days prior. Though the project got out a bit early, the singer's dedicated fans stood by her, waiting until the official drop to immerse themselves in the music, for which Beyoncé expressed gratitude on social media.
MORE: Beyoncé posts 1st TikTok featuring celebs and fans dancing to 'Break My Soul'"So, the album leaked, and you all actually waited until the proper release time so you all can enjoy it together," she wrote in a post shortly before "Renaissance" was made available. "I've never seen anything like it. I can't thank y'all enough for your love and protection."
"I appreciate you for calling out anyone that was trying to sneak into the club early. It means the world to me," the "Break My Soul" singer continued. "Thank you for your unwavering support. Thank you for being patient. We are going to take our time and enjoy the music. I will continue to give my all and do my best to bring you joy. I love you deep."
"Renaissance" is Beyoncé's first conventional solo album since 2016's "Lemonade." The album, which is only the first part of a three-act project, features a total of 16 tracks and includes collaborations from artists like Drake, Nigerian singer Tems and producer Pharrell Williams.
MORE: Beyonce reveals cover art and talks creating new album: 'I hope it inspires you to release the wiggle'As described by Apple Music, the album "is a celebration of freedom and a complete immersion into house and dance that serves as the perfect sound bed for themes of liberation, release, self-assuredness, and unfiltered confidence."
The day before "Renaissance" officially dropped, the singer released another note on her official website, detailing how special the project is to her.
"This three act project was recorded over three years during the pandemic. A time to be still, but also a time I found to be the most creative," she wrote in Thursday’s post.
"Creating this album allowed me a place to dream and to find escape during a scary time for the world,” she added. “It allowed me to feel free and adventurous in a time when little else was moving. My intention was to create a safe place, a place without judgment. A place to be free of perfectionism and overthinking. A place to scream, release, feel freedom. It was a beautiful journey of exploration."
Beyoncé went on to thank her children Rumi, Sir and Blue, and her husband Jay Z, as well as other family members, friends and collaborators.
"To all of my fans: I hope you find joy in this music,” she concluded. “I hope it inspires you to release the wiggle. Ha! And to feel as unique, strong, and sexy as you are. Love y'all deep, B."
"Renaissance" is available to stream now.
