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Janelle Monáe Comes Out as Queer: 'I Consider Myself to Be a Free-Ass Motherf**Ker'
"Know that I see you. Be proud."
Janelle Monáe is setting the record straight queer.
The eclectic R&B singer sat down with Rolling Stone and finally addressed the rumors that have been swirling around since the dawn of her career.
"Being a queer black woman in America," the 32-year-old began, "someone who has been in relationships with both men and women – I consider myself to be a free-ass motherfucker."
Monáe initially identified as bisexual, so she clarifies, "but then later I read about pansexuality and was like, ‘Oh, these are things that I identify with too.' I'm open to learning more about who I am."
While she used to dodge questions about her sexuality (well-known to answer with "I only date androids"), the "PYNK" singer points out that she's been dropping hints for years. "If you listen to my albums, it's there," citing "Mushrooms & Roses" and "Q.U.E.E.N.," two songs mention a love interest named Mary.
Monáe still doesn't want to talk about her dating life and refused to answer if she was, in fact, dating Thor: Ragnorok's Tessa Thompson, but she hopes her official coming out inspires others struggling with their sexuality.
"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."
Congratulations Janelle! Read the full Rolling Stone interview here!
Taylor Henderson is a PRIDE.com contributor. This proud Texas Bama studied Media Production/Studies and Sociology at The University of Texas at Austin, where he developed his passions for pop culture, writing, and videography. He's absolutely obsessed with Beyoncé, mangoes, and cheesy YA novels that allow him to vicariously experience the teen years he spent in the closet. He's also writing one!
Taylor Henderson is a PRIDE.com contributor. This proud Texas Bama studied Media Production/Studies and Sociology at The University of Texas at Austin, where he developed his passions for pop culture, writing, and videography. He's absolutely obsessed with Beyoncé, mangoes, and cheesy YA novels that allow him to vicariously experience the teen years he spent in the closet. He's also writing one!
