"I see music," Beyonce proclaimed in a video announcing the album's release via her Facebook page. She goes on to say in the video, called Self-Titled, Part 1, "It’s more than just what I hear. When I’m connected to something, I immediately see a visual or a series of images that are tied to a feeling or an emotion, a memory from my childhood, thoughts about life, my dreams or my fantasies. And they’re all connected to the music.”

Beyonce had kept quiet about any potential new album until the midnight release, however her recently announced string of UK tour dates had begun to raise a number of eyebrows. An interview with Columbia chief Rob Stringer had also raised speculation when he confirmed Bey was working on her new album, but he too failed to give any specifics.

Beginning in February 2014, Queen Bey will kick off her UK and Ireland tour on 20 February, performing at the SSE Hydro Arena in Glasgow, before heading to Birmingham, Manchester and then London for a four night stay at the O2 in London. She will then make the trip over to the Irish capital for a three night stint at the O2 in Dublin. The tickets for Beyonce's upcoming shows will go on sale on Monday, 16 December at 10am. Check out the full dates below.

Beyonce
Beyonce will bring her live show to the UK next year

Mrs Carter World Tour - 2014 UK dates

February 20 - SSE Hydro Arena, Glasgow

Feb. 23 - LG Arena, Birmingham

Feb. 25 - Manchester Arena, Manchester

Feb. 28 - The O2, London

March 1 - The O2, London

March 2 - The O2, London

March 4 - The O2, London

March 8 - The O2, Dublin

March 9 - The O2, Dublin

March 11 - The O2, Dublin