Singer and actress Janelle Monáe has opened up about her sexuality, telling that she identifies as queer.
“Being a queer black woman in America, someone who has been in relationships with both men and women – I consider myself to be a free-ass motherf**ker,” she said.
Having initially identified as bisexual, Monáe said: “but then later I read about pansexuality and was like: ‘Oh, these are things that I identify with too.’”
She added: “I’m open to learning more about who I am.”
While she previously dodged questions about her sexuality, offering answers such as “I only date androids”, Monáe told Rolling Stone that the original title of her 2013 single “Q.U.E.E.N.” was “Q.U.E.E.R.” – and that you can still hear “queer” being sung in the background.
As fans took to social media to send Monáe messages of support, the singer dedicated her forthcoming album to members of the LGBTIQ+ community.
“I want young girls, young boys, non-binary, gay, straight, queer people who are having a hard time dealing with their sexuality, dealing with feeling ostracised or bullied for just being their unique selves, to know that I see you,” she said.
“This album is for you. Be proud.”
Janelle Monáe's new album Dirty Computer comes out on April 27.
