Janelle Monáe confirms she's queer

Singer Janelle Monáe confirmed long-swirling rumors about her sexuality in a Rolling Stone interview published Thursday. Fans of the singer and actress have long suspected that she might not be straight, based on her presentation as an androgynous "cybergirl" in many of her performances, public appearances, and creative work. But the singer herself was "loath to say" anything definitive about her sexuality, Rolling Stone reported — until now.

In the interview, Monáe acknowledged "being a queer black woman in America, someone who has been in relationships with both men and women." She confirmed that she identifies with parts of the bisexual and pansexual identities, saying, "I'm open to learning more about who I am." Ultimately, she said, she feels like "a free-ass motherf---er."

Monáe stopped short of addressing rumors revolving around her relationship with fellow actress Tessa Thompson, but expressed broader support for the queer community. "Through my experiences, I hope people are seen and heard," she said.

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Monáe's third album, Dirty Computer, will be released Friday. Read more of her interview at Rolling Stone.