The Renaissance has begun. Beyoncé’s seventh studio album, Renaissance, arrived today (July 29) and it is unsurprisingly the top trending topic on Twitter.
The 28-time Grammy winner made Renaissance her first dance project. The 16-track LP which is the first installment of a three act project and led by her record-breaking single “Break My Soul,” has contributions from Jay-Z, Drake, Tems, The-Dream, 070 Shake, Skrillex, and more. Only two of the 16 songs on the project have guest vocalists: reggae artist Beam appears on “Energy,” while Grace Jones and Tems lend their voices to “Move.”
“Creating this album allowed me a place to dream and to find escape during a scary time for the world,” Beyoncé wrote. “It allowed me to feel free and adventurous in a time when little else was moving,” she expressed. “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.”
The official release of Renaissance comes two days after the album was leaked prematurely. Beyoncé addressed the release in a new statement: “So, the album leaked, and you all actually waited until the proper release time so you call can enjoy it together. I’ve never seen anything like it. I can’t think y’all enough for your love and protection. I appreciate you calling out anyone that was trying to sneak it in the club early. 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.”
Take a look at how fans on Twitter are reacting to Beyoncé’s Renaissance:
