Following the birth of his first daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, proud father Jay-Z released one statement in the form of a touching, brand-new song. Now he and wife Beyoncé have released another statement, a joint letter to the media about their new family.

"Hello Hello Baby Blue! We are happy to announce the arrival of our beautiful daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, born on Saturday, January 7, 2012. Her birth was emotional and extremely peaceful; we are in heaven," the couple said. "She was delivered naturally at a healthy 7 lbs and it was the best experience of both of our lives. We are thankful to everyone for all your prayers, well wishes, love and support."

Notably, the letter dispels a widespread rumor about the baby being delivered by Caesarean section. It may also counter the negative attention the couple has faced for renting out a full floor at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, allegedly installing bulletproof glass and preventing other patients from visiting their families in the neonatal unit.

The couple checked out of Lenox Hill this morning, according to the New York Post. They left in an SUV and a surrounding brigade of vehicles around 1:30 a.m.

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