Beyoncé has released her seventh studio album titled Renaissance but there’s a twist.

The 40-year-old has released Act 1 with two other parts expected to also be released in the future.

This is the first offering from Beyoncé since 2016 when fans gained access to Lemonade.

Renaissance and the rest of the trilogy which fans are yet to hear was recorded during the coronavirus pandemic.

The sprawling 16-track album features a spread of genres including driving disco, Afrobeats and house influences.

The singer posted a lengthy statement on her website, echoing one made previously on her Instagram page and thanking her family for their support and inspiration.

“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,” the statement read.

“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.”

Harrow Times: The singer posted a lengthy statement on her website following the release, echoing one made previously on her Instagram page (Yui Mok/PA)The singer posted a lengthy statement on her website following the release, echoing one made previously on her Instagram page (Yui Mok/PA)

She continued: “I want to give a special thank you to Rumi, Sir, and Blue for allowing me this space, creativity, and inspiration.

And a special thanks to my beautiful husband and muse who held me down during those late nights in the studio

“Thank you to all of the pioneers who originate culture, all of the fallen angels whose contributions have gone unrecognised for far too long.

“This is a celebration for you.

“Mama, I luhhhh you. To my father…my first teacher you inspire me in every move that I make. I love you.”

She added: “To all my fans: I hope it inspires you to release the wiggle. Ha! And to feel as unique, strong, and sexy as you are.”

When is Beyoncé’s other music being released?

While we aren’t sure when the next two instalments of the trilogy will be released, fans can look forward to more of Beyoncé’s music while also enjoying Renaissance.

The official release of Renaissance comes less than 36 hours after the album was reportedly leaked online, prompting outraged responses from fans.

Members of the singer’s fan club – known colloquially as the Beyhive – urged people not to share links or listen to the record before Friday.

Minutes before the album’s release Beyoncé, posted to social media thanking fans for their “love and protection” and 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,” she wrote.

“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.”

Beyoncé, who has scored three number one albums and five number one singles in the UK, had only released one single ahead of release day – the house-music-influenced single Break My Soul.

Other tracks on the album include I’m That Girl, Cozy, Alien Superstar, Cuff It, Energy, Church Girl, Plastic Off The Sofa, Virgo’s Groove, Move, Heated, Thique, All Up In Your Mind, America Has A Problem, Pure/Honey, and Summer Renaissance.

The new music comes after the artist wiped all her social media accounts in June, prompting speculation that new music was on the way.

Harrow Times: The album reportedly features collaborations with artists including Beyonce’s husband Jay-Z, though he is not credited on the track list (Ian West/PA)The album reportedly features collaborations with artists including Beyonce’s husband Jay-Z, though he is not credited on the track list (Ian West/PA)

After confirming that Renaissance would arrive on July 29, Beyoncé was revealed to be the cover star of British Vogue’s July issue.

She later shared a striking piece of artwork showing her astride a luminescent horse, wearing only silver jewellery wrapped around her.

So-called Club Renaissance listening parties will take place on Thursday across the world, organised by the record label, Sony Music Entertainment.

Beyoncé fans react to new album Renaissance

Fans took to Twitter to share their thoughts on the new music.

One wrote: “This @Beyonce album is perfect. I’m so grateful for her.”

Another said: “Beyonce album giving me life”

A third tweeted: “YOU GUYS DONT UNDERSTAND ITS SO NICE TO HAVE A NEW BEYONCÉ ALBUM AFTER SO LONG”