On the heels of Lady Gaga releasing a snippet for her next single, "Venus", Britney Spears wrote a letter to her fans, along with the album cover for her eight studio album, Britney Jean. The album comes out December 3rd, the day after her birthday, with the second single,"Perfume," dropping November 5th.

And yes, children, that's the same day ARTPOP drops. Shady!

In the lengthy note, Britney reveals she's she's putting the finishing touches on Britney Jean and that she's really put her heart and soul into it:

Dear Fans,

I haven't sat down to write you guys in SUCH a long time. Long overdue! We're all so used to getting our thoughts out in 140 characters, but sometimes its nice to take time to sit down and write something a little longer and more personal. I am putting the finishing touches on my new album, "Britney Jean" over the next few days and I am so excited for you to hear it. I poured my heart and soul into this album and it's been an incredible journey. I've learned a lot about myself, and as I am finishing, I am reminded of the incredible foundation that has supported me for the last 15 years. Thank you all for continuing to follow me on this journey and for allowing me to do what I love to do. I can’t believe this is my eighth studio album and I know I keep telling you that it is my most personal record yet, but its true and I’m really proud of that.

I have been through a lot in the past few years and it has really inspired me to dig deeper and write songs that I think everyone can relate to. Working with people like Sia, William Orbit, and of course Will.i.am has been an amazing experience. They have listened to all of my ideas and helped me bring them to life. There are a lot of really fun, upbeat dance songs, but it was important to me that I show my strength, and my attitude, and my vulnerability. Of course, I also have some surprises for you guys ;)

I want to show you the different sides of Britney Spears. I am a performer. I am a Mom. I am funny. I am your friend! I am Britney Jean.

Hope you love my labor of love!

Love Always,

Britney

To prove she really wrote the note and didn't just get an assistant to do it, Bri Bri also posted a photo of the handwritten version: