Hot Music: Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe has been called “a different kind of diva” by Vogue Magazine. She takes pride in individuality, as she should! Always sporting a tuxedo and perfectly placed hair, Monáe has developed a uniquely confident style that sets her apart. She’s come a long way, growing up in a family struggling with drug addiction. After high school she moved to New York where she discovered that the structure of art school wasn’t right for her.  She left school and moved to Atlanta where the determination to play her music anywhere and everywhere eventually got her ‘discovered.’ Her image and style caught the attention of music moguls Big Boi (from OutKast) and Sean ‘P.Diddy’ Combs who signed Monáe to his record company, Bad Boy Records in 2006.  COVERGIRL was also drawn to her, making her a spokeswoman in 2012. Her music reflects her style, energy and honesty with its unique, soul stirring lyrics and contagious beats. We’re not the only ones that feel that way; The ArchAndroid was nominated for Best Contemporary R&B Album during the 2011 Grammy Awards. “Q.U.E.E.N.” is the first single from her second album The Electric Lady which will be released this Fall.  The single features one of her personal heroes and good friends, Erykah Badu. The upcoming album will be a more mature expedition than the last, with more emotion and personal elements.  Her boundless creativity, passion for music and never-ending drive and determination, Monáe is a great American success story! What musicians inspire you?