Victoria Monét Embraces the Journey with “Frequency of Love”
NEW YORK (AP) — Victoria Monét is gearing up for her much-anticipated album, which some might call a comeback, despite it being just a three-year hiatus. The three-time Grammy winner acknowledges the rush for quick content in today’s music industry, but values the time taken for artistic creation.
“I’m OK with people asking for more music or feeling like, ‘Dang, I missed her,’” Monét said in a recent interview. Her new project, Frequency of Love, set to release this Friday, is a 22-track studio album that follows her Grammy-winning Jaguar II from 2023.
The album features a variety of sounds, from the house-influenced “Reach Out” to the yacht R&B-inspired “Juicy.” “Let Me,” a slow jam, has already hit No. 1 on Billboard’s adult R&B airplay chart. It also includes collaborations with major artists like Bruno Mars, SZA, Bryson Tiller, Leon Thomas, and Chlöe Bailey.
Reflecting on her influences, Monét shared her passion for love and life experiences that shaped the album. She aims to explore multiple facets of love, including that for her daughter and aspirations for the world.
A Musical Journey Inspired by Michael Jackson
Executive produced by Camper, Frequency of Love promises a diverse sonic experience, paying homage to classic ’90s R&B. Tracks like “Almost” reference Brandy’s hit, while “For You” reimagines Kenny Lattimore’s romantic ballad. Monét also draws on memories of her childhood, with “Care for Somebody (Interlude)” inspired by watching Halle Berry in Introducing Dorothy Dandridge.
Monét finds inspiration in Michael Jackson’s artistic evolution. While she doesn’t seek direct comparisons, she strives to embody the same risk-taking spirit. “I just made my version of what I would make with that mindset,” she said.
At 37, Monét is aware of the heightened expectations following her Grammy wins, but is also navigating the new challenge of facing criticism. “If I get millions of supporters, I can also have millions of haters,” she noted, emphasizing her focus on positivity and self-acceptance.
Balancing Music and Culinary Arts
Having recently supported Bruno Mars on tour, Monét is preparing for her own Frequency of Love concert dates across North America. A veteran songwriter for stars like Ariana Grande and Blackpink, she continues to explore new collaborations, aiming to create scripted projects in film and television.
Additionally, Monét graduated top of her class from the Institute of Culinary Education, blending her love for music and cooking. She believes that the creativity in the kitchen influences her work in the studio: “The vibes of the international music, and the camaraderie that food and fellowship can bring, would influence some of the sonic tones of my songs.”
When asked why a successful artist would pursue culinary arts, Monét said, “Maybe rebellion. … I want to do something that I don’t get paid for, that I’m not defined by.”
As Frequency of Love sets the tone for her evolving career, Monét is committed to moving forward with gratitude and intention. “I went through a moment where I was critical of everything,” she reflected. “And so, it’s really been a journey to come to a place where I can operate in that shift — that paradigm shift — that makes me OK with everything that is, and also OK with everything that is going to come.”
