Janelle Monáe: I'm a 'Queer Black Woman in America'

Photo of Janelle Monáe, courtesy artist

Ahead of the release of her new album, Janelle Monáe has addressed speculation about her sexuality.

In a newly published interview with Rolling Stone, the singer-actress noted she identifies as pansexual, having had relationships with both women and men.

"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 motherfucker,” Monáe said, explaining she had previously believed she was bisexual but has since learned more about her sexual identity.

Her comments come as her new album Dirty Computer arrives on Friday.