Janelle Monae at Red Rocks Amphitheatre

When we say Janelle Monae is revolutionary, she’s basically a musical freedom fighter who breaks barriers. The 37-year-old singer-songwriter, rapper, and actress can do it all. She writes and produces her music and has an exemplary voice. Her compelling lyrics and knack for blending genres have made her one of the most respected music artists in the scene. Although she’s not like other artists dominating the Internet and airwaves with their mainstream hits, Monae has built her loyal following and received countless praise from fans, critics, and peers.

In 2003, the young artist was selling demo tapes out of the trunk of her old Mitsubishi. At the time, she was self-produced, and she self-released her mixtape, The Audition. While performing at local clubs and events prolific artist maintained her day job at Office Depot. She was then fired after answering an email using the company computer. This event inspired the aspiring music star to write the groundbreaking debut single, “Lettin’ Go.” The song caught the attention of Outkast member Big Boi. He then brought Monae to sing two tracks in their 2006 album, Idlewild. Big Boi introduced Monae to Sean “P Diddy” Combs, owner and founder of Bad Boy Records. That same year, she was signed to the label; the rest was history.

Monae has three critically-acclaimed records. Her debut album, The ArchAndroid, peaked at number 17 on the Billboard 200 and number 4 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums. The album featured the hit single “Tightrope,” featuring Big Boi. The single was later certified gold in the U.S. Monae received the Black Women in Music Award from Essence Magazine the following year. In 2012, she was given the Young, Gifted & Black Awards at the Black Girls Rock! Awards.

Monae’s music often advocates for black women, women in general, and those from the marginalized sector. Her tracks often contain striking lyrics, often praised for their honesty. Two of her most compelling tracks include “Django Jane” and “Pynk,” both spawned from her third album, Dirty Computer.

This 2023, Monae is set to drop her latest album, The Age of Pleasure. Set for release in the summer, the album will be her fourth studio effort under Bad Boy Records. If you’re keen on experiencing her new music live, you should quickly secure tickets now to her show at the Red Rocks Amphitheater!