Lemonade contains “Formation” and was released as a visual album in 2016.
Beyoncé released Lemonade on April 23, 2016, after its accompanying film premiered on HBO. The album is organized as a series of musical chapters and explores themes including betrayal, grief, anger, heritage, reconciliation, and empowerment. Its visual presentation uses poetry, symbolism, and imagery connected to Black history and culture.
The album’s final track, “Formation,” had been released as a single earlier in 2016. Other notable songs include “Sorry,” “Hold Up,” “Freedom,” “All Night,” and “Daddy Lessons.” The project features contributions from artists including Jack White, Kendrick Lamar, The Weeknd, and James Blake.
Lemonade received widespread critical acclaim and won the Grammy Award for Best Urban Contemporary Album. It is distinct from Beyoncé’s self-titled 2013 visual album, which was released without advance promotion and used a different structure.