Victoria Monét, gearing up for the Grammy Awards, reflects on her creative process and embracing her sexuality in her music.
The talented artist boasts seven Grammy nominations, including nods for Best New Artist, Album of the Year, and Record of the Year for her hit single “On My Mama.”
In an intimate interview with Variety, Victoria shares her journey, admitting her initial hesitance in addressing her bisexuality in her music, fearing potential backlash.
“At first, I thought conforming would propel me forward,” she reveals. “Trying to fit into a conventional, straight image felt like an additional burden on top of being a woman and being Black.”
Victoria publicly came out as bisexual in 2018, a moment that liberated her to express herself authentically in her music. Collaborating with Ariana Grande on “Monopoly,” she sings boldly about her bisexuality, setting the stage for further exploration in her work.
Her song “Touch Me” from the album Jaguar, where she references her ex Kehlani, showcases her unapologetic approach to sensuality and intimacy. Victoria explains the significance of the lyrics, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and honesty in her music.
Reflecting on Whitney Houston’s hidden bisexuality, Victoria expresses sadness at the limitations imposed on artists by societal expectations. She sees her own openness as a privilege, determined to use her platform to advocate for acceptance and authenticity.
In Victoria’s view, music serves as a platform for exploring sexuality, allowing her to express thoughts and emotions that transcend words. She embraces this freedom, recognizing the power of honesty and vulnerability in her creative journey.