Victoria Monét Embraces Love and Life's Frequencies on New Album

Victoria Monét is set to release her new 22-track album, "Frequency of Love," on Friday, marking her return to the music scene after a three-year break. The Grammy winner views this period not as a hiatus but as a necessary time for creation, embracing the idea that taking time to develop new work is a normal part of an artist's process.

"Frequency of Love" follows her Grammy-winning album "Jaguar II." The new project is supported by singles such as the house-influenced "Reach Out," the yacht R&B-inspired "Juicy," and the slow jam "Let Me," which has already topped Billboard's adult R&B airplay chart. The album also features collaborations with notable artists like Bruno Mars, SZA, Bryson Tiller, Leon Thomas, and Chlöe Bailey.

Monét described the album's theme as a deep exploration of love in its many forms, including romantic love, love for her daughter, and a broader love for the world and its potential. "I’m really, really, really passionate about love," she told The Associated Press. "A lot of it was just reflective of what I was going through or feeling while dating."

The album, executive produced by Camper, delves into sonic territory inspired by classic '90s R&B. Tracks like "Almost," which samples Brandy's "Almost Doesn’t Count," offer a sensual perspective on dissatisfaction, while "For You" reimagines Kenny Lattimore's romantic ballad. "Care for Somebody (Interlude)" is Monét's interpretation of a song she first heard as a child.

Monét cited Michael Jackson's musical evolution between "Off the Wall" and "Thriller" as an inspiration for her creative process. While she is careful to avoid direct comparisons to Jackson's immense success, she aimed to channel a similar spirit of risk-taking artistry in her own work. "I did not make ‘Thriller,’" Monét stated. "I just made my version of what I would make with that mindset."

The artist acknowledged the heightened expectations following her three Grammy wins in 2024 for best new artist, best R&B album, and best engineered album, non-classical. She noted a shift in public perception from underdog support to a more critical reception, which she feels is reflected in the themes of her new album. "If I get millions of supporters, I can also have millions of haters. But who am I paying attention to? And that’s what the album for me is about."

Having recently toured with Bruno Mars in Europe, Monét is preparing for her own "Frequency of Love" tour across 27 North American cities, starting in late October. Beyond her performing career, Monét, who began by writing songs for artists like Ariana Grande and Blackpink, remains interested in collaborative writing and even dreams of creating scripted TV and film projects.

In a surprising turn, Monét recently graduated at the top of her class from the Institute of Culinary Education. She found that cooking and experiencing different international cuisines influenced the sonic textures of her music. This pursuit, she explained, was a form of rebellion and a way to engage in activities she doesn't do for financial gain, allowing for unexpected creative avenues.

As "Frequency of Love" prepares to shape the next chapter of her career, Monét emphasizes the importance of intention and gratitude. She described a past phase of intense self-criticism and dissatisfaction, contrasting it with her current journey toward acceptance and embracing what is, as well as what is to come.