VICTORA Monet is an American singer-songwriter whose career has gone from strength to strength since the release of her her breakthrough hit Jaguar in 2020.
She was pictured kissing UK rapper Stormzy at London’s Heathrow Airport in October 2024 — here’s everything you need to know about her.
Who is Victoria Monet?
Victoria Monet was born on May 1, 1989, in Georgia, US.
She was raised in Sacramento, California, where she discovered her passion for performing arts at a young age.
Victoria started out singing in her church’s youth choir and participating in a city dance team, laying the foundations for her future career.
Her professional journey began in 2008 when she moved to Los Angeles to pursue her dreams.
Victoria’s big break came when she met producer Rodney Jerkins, who included her in a girl group called Purple Reign.
Although the group’s deal with Motown fell through, this setback didn’t deter her.
Instead she pivoted to songwriting, which became her primary source of income while she developed her solo career.
Songwriting success
Victoria’s songwriting prowess quickly gained recognition in the music industry.
She collaborated with a number of high-profile artists including T.I., B.o.B., Kendrick Lamar, Nas, Chloe x Halle, Chris Brown, and Brandy.
However, her most significant songwriting partnership has been with Ariana Grande.
Monopoly – Ariana Grande and Victoria Monét slam Donald Trump in the cheeky music video
Their collaboration began with Ariana’s 2013 debut album Yours Truly and continued through subsequent albums, culminating in the massive hit Thank U, Next in 2018.
After the 2016 Orlando nightclub shooting and Dallas Police shooting, Victoria also worked with Ariana to release Better Days.
Emotions ran high as pair performed the song at the One Love Manchester concert, which was watched by millions.
The song is a hopeful plea for a better world, and contains the lyrics: “I’m praying for the people right outside our window.
“Hoping they find peace at night, just like you and me.”
Solo career and breakthrough
While building her reputation as a songwriter, Victoria simultaneously worked on her solo career.
She released several EPs including Nightmares & Lullabies: Act 1 in 2014 and Life After Love, Pt. 1 & 2 in 2018.
However, it was her 2020 EP Jaguar that marked a turning point, receiving critical acclaim for its innovative production and cohesive storytelling.
Victoria’s career reached new heights with the release of her debut studio album Jaguar II in 2023.
The album became her commercial breakthrough, supported by the hit single On My Mama, which peaked in the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100.
Her success led to seven nominations at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards in 2024.
She took home three Grammys: Best New Artist, Best R&B Album and Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical.
Personal life and motherhood
In 2020, Victoria welcomed her daughter, Hazel.
Hazel has already made history as the youngest Grammy nominee ever at just two, thanks to her laughter featured on her mum’s track Hollywood (2023).
Motherhood has played a significant role in Victoria’s artistic rebirth, giving her new purpose and determination to elevate her career.
Stormzy connection
Victoria was photographed with British rapper Stormzy at London’s Heathrow Airport.
The two were seen embracing and sharing a kiss, sparking speculation about a potential romantic connection.
The Sun’s exclusive pictures show Stormzy, 31, and Victoria, 35, on the evening of Thursday, October 10, 2024.
The 6ft 5in star grinned as he gave Victoria a hug before kissing her on the lips.
An onlooker said: “Both Stormzy and Victoria looked absolutely smitten with each other.
“They kissed and when he hugged her he picked her up in the air.
“It seems like he is in a great place after his split from Maya.
This encounter came just months after Stormzy’s highly publicised split from TV presenter Maya Jama.
In September 2024, Victoria also announced that she had split from her fitness instructor boyfriend John Gaines in late 2023, who whom she shares three-year-old daughter.
