In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, singer/rapper Janelle Monae revealed that her sexuality is fluid, telling the magazine, “Being a Black queer woman in America-someone who has been in relationships with both men and women–I consider myself to be a free ass motherfucker.” Monae continued, “Later I read about pansexuality and was like ‘Oh these are things that I identify with too.’ I’m open to learning more about myself.”

Monae, who was raised in a Baptist family in Kansas, previously had a penchant for dodging interview questions regarding her sexuality, but did confirm that she had always been dropping hints about her sexuality in her discography. “If you listen to my albums, it’s there.”

Monae quips, a running theme in her albums is the reference of a female character named Mary as an object of her affection. Additionally, the original title for Monae’s “Q.U.E.E.N.” was “Q.U.E.E.R.” and that word can still be heard on the track’s background harmonies.

Monae has had her sexuality constantly speculated on by fans and the media alike, and her recent public appearances with Tessa Thompson have only added fuel to the fire. The two can be seen together in the sensual videos for “Make Me Feel” and “PYNK”, as well as various Hollywood events.

Monae did not reveal the status of her relationship with Tessa Thompson to Rolling Stone, however, and chose to make the moment an opportunity to speak to those who may need to be coaxed into feeling free to be themselves.

“I want young girls, young boys, nonbinary, gay, straight, queer people who are having a hard time dealing with their sexuality, dealing with feeling ostracized or bullied for just being their unique selves to know that I see you. This album is for you. Be proud.”

Dirty Computer is available on Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music and other streaming services, as well as traditional stores where music is sold physically. Monae has also released a spectacular video to accompany the project, which Rolling Stone hails as a “masterpiece.”