Beyoncé’s album that includes “Formation,” released in 2016, is Lemonade.
Lemonade was released on April 23, 2016, after Beyoncé premiered its accompanying visual album on HBO. It combines songs with a film-like sequence of poetry, imagery, and narration. The project explores themes including betrayal, healing, family, Black womanhood, and cultural memory.
“Formation” was first released as a standalone single in February 2016 and later appeared as the closing musical track on Lemonade. Its video and lyrics made references to Black Southern identity, Hurricane Katrina, police violence, and Beyoncé’s family heritage.
Lemonade is sometimes confused with Beyoncé, the self-titled 2013 visual album, because both projects were presented through striking visual releases. They are separate albums. Lemonade also includes guest contributions from Jack White, James Blake, Kendrick Lamar, and The Weeknd.