Victoria Monét's Empowering Phase

For years, Victoria Monét was a behind-the-scenes force in the music industry, penning hits for artists like Ariana Grande, Fifth Harmony, and Chloe x Halle. Her work on Grande's "7 Rings" and "Thank U, Next" earned her Grammy nominations as a songwriter. Her debut studio album, *Jaguar II*, released in August 2023, marked her commercial breakthrough as a solo artist. The album, a blend of '70s funk and modern R&B, received critical acclaim for its lush instrumentation and confident lyricism. At the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, Monét took home three awards: Best New Artist, Best R&B Album, and Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical for *Jaguar II*. In her acceptance speech for Best New Artist, she described her journey as a "15-year pursuit." The album's hit single, "On My Mama," became an anthem of self-assurance and peaked in the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100. Monét revealed that she wrote the song after experiencing postpartum depression, wanting to create something that spoke light into herself and her listeners. Motherhood has played a significant role in Monét's artistic evolution, giving her a new sense of purpose and determination. She has spoken about initially fearing that having a child would hinder her career, but found it to be a source of empowerment. Her daughter, Hazel, is even featured on the track "Hollywood" alongside Earth, Wind & Fire. Her latest single, "Let Me," signals a new creative era for Monét, moving from the "fierce, clawed-out energy" of the *Jaguar* era to one that embraces softness and femininity. The song is the lead single for her upcoming sophomore album and is described as a "lush, gliding R&B slow jam." Monét co-wrote "Let Me" with Tiyon "TC" Mack, and it was produced by Camper, Jeff "Gitty" Gitelman, Branden "B Mack" Rowell, and Cashmere Brown. This new music encourages vulnerability and provides a "sonic sanctuary" for listeners.