For Janelle Monáe's inaugural EBONY cover shoot, EBONY's creative team collaborated with the singer-songwriter-actress' Wondaland Arts Society for a visionary partnership that embodies the trailblazing spirit of the envelope-pushing multihyphenate.

The breathtaking visuals position Janelle in a variety of settings that are symbolic of the freeassmuthafucka spirit that Janelle lives by. EBONY Photo Director Keith Major captured provocative portraits in-studio that portray the star in varying modes of expression. Colorful clothing and retro elements appear throughout.

Take a behind-the-scenes look in this exclusive video.