Monica Believes She’s the Overlooked Star of R&B

Monica, the Legendary R&B artist who made her mark in the ’90s with chart-toppers like “For You I Will” and “Angel of Mine,” recently shared her sentiments about feeling somewhat overlooked among her peers in the R&B industry. The singer expressed these thoughts during a candid discussion at the final stop of The Shop’s UNINTERRUPTED Live Tour in Atlanta, which took place on Wednesday, October 11.

Alongside Monica, the event featured Quavo and Lou Williams as special guests, where they delved into Monica’s career journey and her perspective on being the underdog.

Monica began by reflecting on her unique approach to her career, emphasizing that she didn’t place heavy emphasis on statistical achievements or awards throughout her journey. She revealed, “I was able to really enjoy my career because I didn’t have any expectations,” she began. “I was not looking at stats, I was not worried about awards. I’m actually a person that, for all the records I’ve broken, I really have never won any awards. I’m really the most forgotten if you think about it.”

Continuing her introspective commentary, Monica acknowledged her status as an underdog in the industry but embraced it with grace. She pointed out, “I’m pretty much the underdog, but I sit very comfortably in it because I can still go where I want, do what I want, live how I want. But when I say that I am often forgotten, I was hosting the Soul Train Awards, was nominated for five, three of my songs in one category and still lost.”

Monica’s story highlights her unwavering commitment to her craft and her ability to remain unfazed by the pressures and expectations often associated with the music industry. She concluded with a resolute statement, “But I went out to eat and kicked my regular shit after,” she concluded. “I was not bothered because that’s not what I do it for…That is really my point when I say that oftentimes I’m forgotten in those spaces.”

Monica’s candid discussion sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of her career, reminding us that true success isn’t always measured by awards and accolades but by the ability to create music and live life on one’s terms. Her story serves as an inspiration to those who believe that staying true to one’s artistry is the ultimate achievement in the ever-evolving world of R&B music.