The queen of controversy has struck again, as Madonna has come under fire for posting altered images of Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela and Bob Marley, among others, to promote her upcoming album, Rebel Heart.

MadonnaMadonna has caused controversy again on her Instagram account

The 56 year old posted the pictures, which feature the icon’s faces covered in black ribbon, on her Instagram account. Alongside the image of Martin Luther King Madonna put the caption, “This #rebelheart had a dream!”

However critics have been quick to slam the singer, with some accusing her of comparing herself to the late civil rights leaders. But the singer has now spoken out amidst the controversy, saying its all a simple case of misinterpretation.

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"I'm sorry. I’m not comparing my self to anyone/ I’m admiring and acknowledging there Rebel Hearts. This is neither a crime or an insult or racist!. I also did it with Michael Jackson and Frida Khalo and Marilyn Monroe,” Madonna wrote on her official Facebook page.

This ❤️#rebelheart had a dream!

Een foto die is geplaatst door Madonna (@madonna) op


“Am I saying I am them? NO. I’m saying they are Rebel Hearts too. And I didn't do it. My fans did And I just re posted those photos. My fans aren't racist either. If they put me in the same category as these other people, Thank you. I'm very flattered and I hope one day to live up to 1 100th of what those people accomplished,” she continued.

The Material Girl then went on to thank her fans on Instagram writing, “I would like to thank all my fans for recreating my album cover with the Rebel Heart ribbon on the faces of so many Great Hero's. It shows that you are also celebrating and in admiration of these great freedom fighters! When I repost these images i am saying YES! These people are all Rebel Hearts in one way or another.”

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Although not scheduled for release until March 10th, Rebel Heart has already caused many headaches for Madonna, starting when unfinished songs leaked online last month. After the leak, the singer was force to release six new songs on iTunes, nearly three months ahead of the album's official release date.

X-mas is coming early! Pre order my album and download 6 tracks! Happy Holidays! ❤️#rebelheart

A photo posted by Madonna (@madonna) on