The internet has been reacting to the new Jay Z record

The rapper will headline Virgin V Festival in August.

On Friday, Jay-Z (once again with hyphen) released his 13^th(ish) studio album, 4:44. The remarkably stripped back hip-hop record was produced entirely by mentor No ID, welcoming only three guests into the fold. One of which is Jay-Z’s mother, Gloria Carter, who offers a mantra for liberation. “Love who you love,” she implores. Her son has already discussed her sexuality.

It forms part of a theme of redemption and empowerment. Jay, real name Shawn Carter, focuses on his culture. On The Story of OJ he celebrates his success with notable humility. On Family Fued he takes on Becky, the one with the good hair. He admits to his infidelity.

4:44 is in part a response to wife Beyonce’s iconic Lemonade. Yet despite what certain corners of the internet would let you believe, it’s so much more. It’s about black liberation, a celebration of culture, and a man coming to terms with the reality of his decisions.

Understandably, the internet has gone wild.

For many, it’s all about respect.

https://twitter.com/peter_mistretta/status/881641827799101440

so happy bout this new Jay Z. alas some guidance.

— felly (@fellythekid) July 2, 2017

https://twitter.com/SirMichaelRocks/status/881275573208842240

another masterpiece by JAY Z. these lyrics…powerful!!

— tiller (@brysontiller) July 1, 2017

#444album in a nutshell : When grown folks is talking, shut up and take notes. #JayZ

— Larry Johnson (@2LarryJohnson7) June 30, 2017

For some, it’s inspiration.

https://twitter.com/OGPRE/status/881515119490076672

Hopefully JayZ Album will get y'all to be smart, invest your money and think long term wealth, instead of flexing all the time.

— Alvin⚜️ (@TheVinoWay) June 30, 2017

For all, it’s about empowerment.

https://twitter.com/PonceDeLeioun/status/881292790772137985

Also let's not forget Jay Z released 4:44 under his own record label,streamed on his own App…greatness not only in words..taking notes!

— baba tunde (@Illuminhearty) July 1, 2017

https://twitter.com/ESVYBE/status/880824322851577858

Some are calling it already.

24 hours later… 4:44 is album of the year. No contest. Hov has delivered yet another classic album. Masterpiece. 👑🙌🏻🐐#444 #jayz pic.twitter.com/rkaRF1upEg

— Ewan Hamilton (@oldmanhammy) July 1, 2017

We agree.

Catch Jay-Z at Virgin V Festival, with tickets available now through Ticketmaster.co.uk.