However, on Thursday, the singer posted to her website a special message giving thanks to her family, which will be featured in the hardcopy of the album. The photo of her snuggling with her kids and a picture of her mother Tina Knowles and her uncle Johnny caught the eye of many fans.

Johnny is Tina’s nephew, but, growing up, Beyoncé and her sister Solange, referred to him as "uncle." In the message, she expressed her love and gratitude for him, writing, “A big thank you to my uncle Jonny. He was my godmother and the first person to expose me to a lot of the music and culture that serve as inspiration for this album. Thank you to all of the pioneers who originate culture, to all of the fallen angels whose contributions have gone unrecognized for far too long. This is a celebration for you."

This was not the first time the singer has spoken about their bond. In 2019, the 40-year-old music icon detailed how he has inspired her while accepting the Vanguard Award at the 30th Annual GLAAD Media Awards.

“I want to dedicate this award to my uncle Johnny, the most fabulous gay man I ever knew, who helped raise me and my sister,” she said. Johnny died from AIDS complications.

She and Jay-Z were given the award for their work as allies to the LGBTQ community. She continued her acceptance speech by saying, “He lived his truth. He was brave and unapologetic during a time when this country wasn’t as accepting. And witnessing his battle with HIV was one of the most painful experiences I’ve ever lived. I’m hopeful that his struggle helped to open pathways for other young people to live more freely. LGBTQIA rights are human rights.”

Beyonce’s mother also thought the new album was reminiscent of her nephew. On July 25th, Tina posted to her Instagram a video of her and artist Mark Bradford dancing to Break My Soul. In the caption, she referenced Johnny, writing, “Mr. Mark Bradford. Mark and I bonded over our loved ones that we lost way too young! So when Beyonce and I met Mark we looked at each other and both said ‘Johnny’ my very best friend and nephew who helped to raise my kids.”

At the end of the note, Beyoncé wrote to her fans about how she hopes her music can inspire them, just as much as her family inspired her; "To all of my fans: I hope you find joy in this music. I hope it inspires you to release the wiggle. Ha! And to feel as unique, strong, and sexy as you are."