Victoria Monét Unleashes “Freak”: An Empowering Deep Dive into “Life After Love Pt. 1” and Her Artistic Evolution

For years, the name Victoria Monét has resonated powerfully within the music industry. Known for her exceptional songwriting prowess and as a longtime collaborator with global superstar Ariana Grande, including opening for her monumental Dangerous Woman Tour, Monét has established herself as a formidable talent. However, her artistic journey extends far beyond her work for others. Her solo material consistently showcases a unique blend of vulnerability, strength, and undeniable musicality. With the release of her inspiring new single “Freak” and the impending arrival of her project Life After Love Pt. 1, Victoria Monét is stepping into her own spotlight, inviting listeners to join her on an intimate and empowering ride. We had the exclusive opportunity to connect with Victoria, where she broke down the inspiration behind her latest single, offered insights into her upcoming project, and shared updates on her artistic endeavors.

Unpacking “Freak”: A Single About Reclamation and Confidence

Is “Freak” inspired by anyone in particular?

“Freak” emerged from a deeply personal space following a significant breakup I experienced. It was a period where I found myself grappling with intense insecurities, common feelings many women encounter after a relationship ends – the self-doubt, the questions of whether I wasn’t enough, or if something was inherently wrong with me. These feelings often revolve around perceived shortcomings like being cheated on, not receiving enough attention, or any myriad of issues that might lead to a separation. It’s a very raw and relatable experience, and I wanted to channel that emotion into something transformative, turning a moment of vulnerability into a declaration of strength and self-worth.

What’s the meaning behind it?

The core message of “Freak” is a powerful declaration of self-worth and a challenge to the narrative of loss. It’s about taking back control and asking, in essence, “What exactly was missing in our relationship or our intimate life that led you to seek it elsewhere? Because if there was something you needed, something you desired, I am fully capable and willing to provide that.” This song marks a significant shift for me – it’s about embracing and becoming more confident, overtly sexy, and unapologetically fierce. It’s a journey towards shedding old habits that didn’t serve me and cultivating new ones that affirm my strength and desirability. I wanted to embody the idea of being 100% a ‘baddie’ – a woman who is confident, powerful, and in tune with her desires. The song provocatively asks, “Do you want a freak?” and then confidently asserts, “Because I can be that, too.” It’s a reminder that authenticity and embracing all facets of your personality, including your sexuality, are empowering. Just like other iconic figures who embody fierce femininity, like Beyoncé’s Sasha Fierce alter ego, women shouldn’t feel limited in expressing their full, powerful selves. It’s about owning every aspect of who you are, without compromise or fear of judgment.

What do you want fans to take away from “Freak?”

My deepest desire for anyone listening to “Freak” is for them to feel an overwhelming sense of empowerment, sensuality, and unwavering confidence – as if the entire world is truly theirs for the taking. I particularly want women to internalize the message that it is absolutely okay to be sexy, to express their desires, and to own their sexuality without reservation or apology. There’s often a noticeable double standard in the music industry, where men frequently enjoy more freedom and leeway when discussing sex and intimate relationships in their lyrics. I firmly believe that this should be an equal playing field. Women deserve the same freedom and platform to articulate their experiences, their desires, and their perspectives on sex and sensuality in their music. “Freak” is my contribution to leveling that field, offering a sonic space where women can feel liberated and celebrated for their authentic selves. It’s a call to embrace one’s inner “freak” and recognize that true power comes from self-acceptance and self-expression, regardless of societal expectations.

The Visuals and the Challenge: Engaging with “Freak”

Can you tease the upcoming video at all?

Absolutely! I’m thrilled to share that fans can get an exclusive sneak peek into the visual world of “Freak” through an app called Cheez. We’ll be releasing special clips there that showcase some of the incredible choreography from the official “Freak” music video. But that’s not all – we’re also launching an exciting social media initiative: the #FreakChallenge! This is a fantastic opportunity for fans to get involved, show off their moves, and potentially win big. The grand prize includes a substantial $5,000 and, even more exciting, a date with me in Los Angeles! So, if you’re eager to participate and get all the specific details on how to enter, make sure you download the Cheez app. It’s going to be a lot of fun, and I can’t wait to see what everyone comes up with! This challenge isn’t just about showing off; it’s about celebrating confidence, creativity, and the joy of movement inspired by the song’s empowering message.

Love, Connection, and Valentine’s Day

Is Valentine’s Day a thing for you? How are you celebrating this year — or not?

I genuinely believe that any moment presenting an opportunity to express and share love should be embraced wholeheartedly. Valentine’s Day, whether you’re in a relationship or not, is one of those special occasions where a collective mood of love and affection seems to permeate everything. It’s a beautiful sentiment, and I always try to lean into it. This year, my celebration is uniquely dedicated to my incredible fans. I’m hosting a free, intimate show right here in Los Angeles on Valentine’s Day itself. This is my heartfelt way of giving back and showing my immense gratitude for their unwavering support. It doesn’t matter if you have a date, if you’re flying solo, or if you’re coming with friends – everyone is welcome. My goal is to create a warm, inviting atmosphere where I can serenade you, and we can all simply vibe out and share in the joy of music and connection. It’s about celebrating love in all its forms, especially the love shared between an artist and their audience. This show is a personal thank you, a way to connect directly with the people who make my music possible, and to spread a little extra love on a day dedicated to it.

Journey Through Emotion: “Life After Love Pt. 1”

Any other new tracks coming soon?

Yes, absolutely! I am so excited for everyone to hear my upcoming project, Life After Love Pt. 1, which is slated for release on February 23rd. “Freak” is a pivotal track and one of seven songs that will be featured on Part 1. This project is just the beginning; of course, there will be a Part 2 that will follow a little later, building upon the themes and musical journey initiated in the first installment. I encourage everyone to keep an eye out for more information and updates on Part 2 in the near future. It’s a comprehensive body of work that I’m incredibly proud of, and I believe it truly showcases a significant phase of my artistic and personal evolution. This two-part project is designed to take listeners on a complete emotional arc, from the depths of heartbreak to the heights of self-rediscovery and healing. [Ed. note: You can stream Life After Love Pt. 1 below!]

What can you tell us about Life After Love Pt. 1?

Life After Love Pt. 1 is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a meticulously crafted narrative that chronicles the emotional rollercoaster I experienced after a profoundly difficult and lengthy breakup. I was in a significant relationship for many years, and this project delves deep into the often-dark, complex aftermath of such a separation. The songs are intentionally ordered to reflect the progression of feelings I went through – from initial shock and insecurity to eventual self-discovery and healing. It gets into intricate details, exposing a raw and honest portrayal of heartbreak, introspection, and resilience. For instance, there’s a track titled “Ten New Friends” that boldly explores the theme of self-pleasure and rediscovering intimacy with oneself after a relationship ends, highlighting the importance of self-love and independence. Another deeply emotional song, “Waterfall Out of Love,” truly gets to the heart of the pain and eventual release associated with a breakup, capturing the overwhelming current of emotions. Musically, the project is heavily influenced by the rich, soulful vibes of ’90s R&B. I drew inspiration from iconic artists like Aaliyah and Missy Elliott, and the distinct, often darker and more introspective R&B songs of that era. It’s a really emotional body of work, filled with genuine sentiment and raw honesty, and I am genuinely thrilled and a little nervous to share such a personal piece of my life with the world. Through this project, I hope listeners can find solace, understanding, and ultimately, strength in their own experiences of love and loss.

Reflections on Tour: The Power of Music and One Love Manchester

What was a particularly amazing time during your tour with Ariana Grande?

While my entire experience touring with Ariana Grande was phenomenal and filled with unforgettable moments, there is absolutely no way to top the profound impact and significance of the One Love Manchester concert. Although it wasn’t strictly part of the Dangerous Woman Tour’s original itinerary, it transcended any typical concert experience. It stood as a powerful testament to immense dedication, incredible fearlessness, unwavering love, and an extraordinary sense of community that formed in the face of tragedy. This event showcased, in the most moving way possible, the unparalleled power of music to unite people. It proved that music can bring individuals together regardless of danger, external negativity, or any differences that might otherwise divide us – especially when healing is needed after something as tragic as the Manchester attack. Every hug shared, every tear shed, every moment of collective healing that music was able to facilitate during that concert made it, without a doubt, my most impactful and cherished day on tour. There truly is no better or more profound way to begin healing from such an immense tragedy than to share love, hope, and unity with the world through the universal language of music. It was a moment of pure, collective human spirit, demonstrating how art can transform grief into communal strength and resilience.

Dream Collaborations and Future Aspirations

Who do you want to collaborate with?

Oh, the list of dream collaborators is long and distinguished! At the very top, I would absolutely love to get into the studio with Sade. I consider her an absolute legend; her voice isn’t just a vocal instrument, it’s a unique, ethereal sound that stands unparalleled. To create something with her would be an honor beyond words, delving into her smooth, sophisticated sonic landscape. And, of course, Beyoncé – she is undeniably the queen of all queens, a true icon whose artistry and stage presence are simply unmatched. A collaboration with her would be a monumental career highlight, pushing boundaries and reaching new heights. Then there’s Janet Jackson, always. I’ve always admired her artistry, her longevity, and her impact. More than just a collaboration, I would truly love for her to take me under her wing. To have someone as experienced, as seasoned, and as influential as Janet to truly show me the ropes, to impart her wisdom and guide me through the nuances of this industry, would be an absolute dream come true. That kind of mentorship is something I deeply aspire to and would cherish immensely, learning from a true pioneer and visionary.

What’s something you’ve been passionate lately outside of your work?

Lately, I’ve rediscovered and become incredibly passionate about traveling! The year 2017 was by far the most extensive period of travel I’ve ever experienced. While I was incredibly fortunate to visit numerous countries across the globe, the tight schedule that comes with touring meant I didn’t get to fully immerse myself in each location. Often, it was flying in, performing, and then immediately moving on. This left me with a burning desire to redo it all, but this time with the intention to truly explore each city, soak in the local culture, and connect with the unique energy of every place. It was profoundly inspiring to witness the diversity of people around the world and observe how vastly different cultures can be from one another. When you’re constantly in Los Angeles, working tirelessly in the studio, it’s easy to keep your head down and focus solely on the immediate tasks. However, going on tour offers a remarkable opportunity – you finally get to look up, breathe, and truly explore the world that exists beyond your immediate creative bubble. It’s a perspective-altering experience that fuels my creativity in new ways, offering fresh insights and inspiration. There’s also something else I’ve become really passionate about, a surprise element that you’ll definitely catch a glimpse of in the “Freak” video! You’ll just have to watch to find out.

Anything else in the pipeline?

Definitely! My creative journey is continuous. I’m currently making plans to head back into the studio, not only to begin writing for my next solo project but also to craft songs for other artists. For a little while, I consciously dedicated my time to focusing solely on myself as an artist, concentrating on the specific songs I wanted to produce and release under my own name. Now that I’ve laid that foundation, I’m excited to re-enter the collaborative writing mode and share my creative output with other talented individuals. It’s a dynamic process, and I’m genuinely eager to see the diverse and exciting musical outcomes that will emerge from this next phase of my work. The possibilities are endless, and I’m looking forward to embracing them all, continually evolving as both a solo artist and a songwriter for others. This balance allows me to explore different facets of my creativity and contribute to the broader musical landscape.

Keep up with Victoria Monét and her exciting journey here.