I was reading this months Vogue when, amidst the ubiquitous Prada adds and Ralph Lauren spreads, I came upon the "People are Talking About..." section. This month features a short article about a new artist who has recently carved out a niche in my heart: Janelle Monae
Anyone who knows me is aware that I love music. LOVE! And my taste in it has been described as classic, strange, exotic, funny, eclectic and unique. So it's no surprise that all these words can, and have been used to describe Monae. Her music is an intriguing blend of sounds from all over the audio-verse. There is funk, rock, rap, electronica and exceptional vocal talent on display in her work, and sometimes its all in one song!
Discovered by Big Boy of OutKast at Justin's, the restaurant owned by P. Diddy, Monae has caught the ear of many in the music industry. Called everything from "enchanting" by Andre 3000, to simply "fire" by Missy Elliot. Monae is leaving a lasting impression on her peers.
With a style all her own -hair pulled up the sides, coiffed on top, Plaid blazers, silk trimmed jackets, tuxedo shirts, high wasted trousers and various bow ties!- this young lady is a walking fashion statement, with an ear toward the future and a voice from the past (check out her heartfelt rendition of the classic, Smile).In a time like this, when so many songs come equipped with instructions on how to dance to them (Bend your knees, rock your hips, shake that booty meat?) it's rewarding to see Monae let loose on the stage in a completely non-choreographed ecstasy.
I'm captivated by her energy and her voice, but I love a live performance. And to see her in motion is to witness a force of nature. She moves away from the mic, kicking, clapping, and spinning around like a whirling Dervish. Then, swinging one arm in front of her and one arm behind she marches to the beat of her own drummer. Im not sure where she's going...but Im right behind her.
