R&B Singer Victoria Monét Overcomes Career Setbacks to Win Three Grammy Awards

Earlier this week, Victoria Monét triumphed over years of frustrating setbacks, as she emerged triumphant on Grammy night, grabbing three prestigious awards. The 34-year-old R&B singer, known for her resilience and talent, secured the titles of Best New Artist, Best R&B Album, and Best Non-Classical Engineered Album for her sensational debut record, “Jaguar II.”

Monét’s groundbreaking achievements may come as a surprise to some, as behind the scenes, her career was no overnight sensation. For over a decade, Victoria Monét worked diligently, writing chart-topping hits for other artists, while record labels and executives remained reluctant to put her in the spotlight. The singer shared her heartfelt acceptance speech, reminiscing about a critical meeting at a prominent label where her hopes clashed with disappointment. Despite her undeniable talent, the label failed to recognize her potential, leaving her dedicated work in a binder to collect dust in their office.

Monét’s experience of rejection persisted even when her music began to gather a dedicated following. In June 2023, her single, “On My Mama,” soared to the top of the Billboard Songs Chart. Listeners connected with the song, sparking a social media campaign urging Monét’s performance at the highly-anticipated MTV Video Music Awards. Unfortunately, organizers considered her relatively unknown, denying her coveted stage presence. Monét acknowledged the support her fans demonstrated and revealed her determination to persist in her musical journey.

Monét’s story resonates with a profound truth applicable to any ambitious individual: achieving personal and professional success often requires a considerable amount of time. Many so-called overnight sensations, whether in the music industry or otherwise, have invested years of dedication and perseverance to reach such prestigious heights. In the digital age, where people tend to showcase success more prominently than their struggles, it becomes crucial to recognize the unseen efforts that contribute to a shining moment in the limelight.

Monét humbly emphasized the 15-year journey that her Grammy award represented. Instead of comparing oneself to others, Monét encouraged individuals to embrace their unique path, acknowledging that progress is not limited by anyone else’s accomplishments. In her empowering words, Monét conveyed that pursuing personal goals, regardless of the pace, is the key to seizing opportunities and achieving unprecedented success.

MTV has not yet responded to CNBC Make It’s request for comment on the denial of Monét’s performance at the MTV Video Music Awards.

Monét’s extraordinary professional journey is a stark reminder of the hurdles encountered not only in the music industry but also in more traditional career fields. According to a 2022 report by diversity, equity, and inclusion consulting firm Every Level Leadership, 63% of Black women express doubts about advancement within their current organizations. This statistic emphasizes the significance of acknowledging the immense talent and effort that may be overlooked due to systematic hurdles.

Every Level Leadership’s Ericka Hines suggested that when traditional avenues for advancement reach their limits, individuals should invest in building relationships within their workplace. Establishing connections with colleagues can provide allies or sponsors who may advocate for the advancement of underrepresented individuals. These sponsors can transcend workplace boundaries and advocate for their peers, combating systemic barriers and creating a more inclusive professional environment.

Hines emphasized the responsibility of allies to utilize their social capital to support their Black female colleagues actively. By confronting issues and standing up for necessary changes, allies can be instrumental in maximizing the potential of talented individuals facing obstacles.

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