Madonna releases 6 songs after leak

NEW YORK -- In a surprise preview of her new album, Madonna released six songs Saturday on iTunes and various streaming services.

The songs were released because several in-progress demos were leaked earlier this week, publicist Liz Rosenberg said.

Madonna said in a statement that she had wanted to wait until a different holiday season.

"I was hoping to release my new single 'Living For Love' on Valentine's Day with the rest of the album coming in the spring," she said. "I would prefer my fans to hear completed versions of some of the songs instead of the incomplete tracks that are circulating. Please consider these six songs as an early Christmas gift."

Songs available Saturday also include the plaintive, anti-drug "Devil Pray"; the secretive, name-checking dance track "Illuminati"; and a duet with Nicki Minaj, "B---h I'm Madonna." Additional music will be released on Feb. 9, Rosenberg said.

The full album, "Rebel Heart," is Madonna's 13th and is set for release in March. Producers include Madonna, Diplo and Kanye West.