Beyoncé has thanked her fans for their “love and protection”, after her new album was leaked.
Renaissance was released on 29 July but two days before its official release it was leaked.
Beyoncé has thanked her fans in a post on Twitter.
“So, the album leaked, and you all actually waited until the proper release time so you all can enjoy it together,” she wrote.
“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. 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.”
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The 16-track Renaissance is Beyonce’s first album in six years and a follow-up to Lemonade.
It is her seventh studio album and features contributions from Jay-Z, Drake, Skrillex, Grace Jones, 070 Shake, and others.
The largely featureless record does include two songs with guest vocalists – reggae artist Beam on Energy while Grace Jones and Tems lend their vocals to Move.
Renaissance is part of a three-act project that was recorded over three years during the pandemic.
Writing on her website, Beyoncé said: “Creating this album allowed me a place to dream and to find escape during a scary time for the world.
“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.”
Although this is her first album release since 2016, the chart-topping singer has collaborated with other artists and curated the soundtrack album for the 2019 remake of The Lion King.
She was also the cover star of British Vogue’s July issue.