Janelle Monae

Janelle Monae can only be labeled one of a kind. Always wearing her uniform of black tuxedo and gravity-defying hair, Monae is easily recognizable and just as unforgettable. As Vogue Magazine described her, Monae embodies, “A different kind of diva.” She focuses on and remains committed to the true art behind her every move and influencing everyone around her.

Let’s start from the beginning: Monae was born in Kansas City, Kansas, but later moved to New York to study Theatre at The American Musical And Dramatic Academy. From there, she went on to be a singer, songwriter, dancer and performer who has already began to leave her creative fingerprints all over the music world. She is signed to the Wondaland Arts Society (which she helped create) and Bad Boy/Atlantic Records. Diddy, who Monae works with on Bad Boy Records praises her as, “A true visionary…one of the most important signings of my career.” Monae asserts her creativity through the short films, songs, music videos and performances she produces. Monae has already been nominated for a Grammy and just recently received the Vanguard Award from the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP).

Monae released two full length albums Metropolis and The ArchAndroid and collaborates with many other artists to create inspiring, artistic music and videos. Monae has learned to”embrace the things that make me unique and to continue being and even bigger agent of change, especially as an artist.” Unique she definitely is, and hopefully the music industry will grow and change from the antics of Janelle Monae.

The video for a remix of her single “Tightrope” feat. B.o.B and Lupe Fiasco

“Many Moons” Short Film

Coca Cola commercial with Monae singing a cover of “Are You Getting Enough Of What Makes You Happy” by Hot Chocolate

Performing “Tightrope” on David Letterman