Beyoncé for Renaissance, shot by Mason Poole

It was the moment we’ve all been waiting for. Beyoncé’s seventh studio album “Renaissance” was officially released last night, after it was leaked two days earlier. The pop star released “Act 1” of Renaissance with 16 tracks, with several artists featured on tracks, in writing credits and production, including none other than her husband Jay-Z as well as Certified Lover Boy Drake.  With the release of “Act 1,” fans are assuming that there will be a second part to the album release.

Beyoncé for Renaissance, shot by Mason Poole

“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,” Beyoncé posted on her website just hours before the release. “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.”

Queen B also took to Instagram to share the album cover artwork as well as an entire shoot dedicated to the release of Renaissance. In a post, she shared her appreciation to the fans that were patient enough to wait for the official release rather than listen when the album leaked, “So the album leaked, and you all actually waited until the actual release time so you can all enjoy it together. 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 do my all and do my best to bring you joy. I Love You Deep.”

We were happy to wait for the official release, especially considering that – to our surprise – the album cover art was created by a talented Syrian and Lebanese artist, Kelly Shami. “Thankful to design something a part of history,” she expressed.

To accompany the album, the pop sensation released an entire fashion editorial, shot by Mason Poole and styled by Marni Senofonte and KJ Moody. Who else would release a high-fashion shoot for the announcement of their official album release? Only Queen B. To see more of the shoot, check out our gallery below.