In an unprecedented surprise launch, Beyoncé released her 5th studio album, Beyoncé to the world, unannounced in the early mornings of Friday.  The album is said to be exclusively available on the iTunes Store and is infused with 14 new tracks and 17 visually stunning, provocative videos shot in cities around the world including Houston, New York and Paris. 

“I see music,” says Beyoncé when asked about her decision to create a visual album. “It’s more than just what I hear.  When I’m connected to something, I immediately see a visual or a series of images that are tied to a feeling or an emotion, a memory from my childhood, thoughts about life, my dreams or my fantasies.  And they’re all connected to the music.”

That the album is available on the day the world is learning about its release is an unprecedented strategic move by the artist. Beyonce aims to deliver music and visual content directly to her fans when she wants to and how she wants to, with no filter

“I didn’t want to release my music the way I’ve done it,” she states.  “I am bored with that.  I feel like I am able to speak directly to my fans.   There’s so much that gets between the music, the artist and the fans.  I felt like I didn’t want anybody to give the message when my record is coming out. I just want this to come out when it’s ready and from me to my fans.”

This unique approach allows music fans to be the first to listen, view, engage and form their own opinions void of any middleman.  In the age of the social network where the fan has an insatiable appetite for direct communication, the fan has finally received the answer to the question that has plagued the internet for the last few months. "When is Beyonce's next album coming?"

You can purchase the album on iTunes by clicking the following link: BEYONCÉ - Beyoncé