Janelle Monáe, a genre-defying artist and actress celebrated for her innovative music, discusses her Grammy-nominated album, The Age of Pleasure. She reflects on her rebellious youth and overcoming fears of icons like Prince and Grace Jones. The conversation delves into the complexities of identity, the importance of vulnerability in artistry, and the transformative power of forgiveness within family dynamics. Monáe also passionately shares her journey of embracing her queer identity while advocating for visibility and representation in the arts.

Janelle Monáe, a multi-talented artist known for her unique style and advocacy for social justice, opens up about her personal journey and the concept of 'the age of pleasure.' She discusses the importance of thanking exes for the lessons learned from past relationships. Monáe shares insights on navigating love, particularly in polyamorous settings, and delves into her experience with social media boundaries in romantic connections. She also reflects on how her past traumas have shaped her creative process for her new album, emphasizing self-acceptance and empowerment.

Award-winning musician and actress Janelle Monáe breaks down her song 'So Afraid' step by step, from a voice memo recorded at the dentist to its powerful anthem status. She discusses dealing with anxiety, the struggle of self-forgiveness, and the power of vulnerability. The episode also explores the creation process, minimal instrumentation, and focus on vocal delivery, as well as the importance of innocence and the longing for carefree days in the lyrics.

NPR Music's picks for the best albums out this week include new ones from Amaarae, Janelle Monáe, King Krule, Keaton Henson and more.Featured Albums:1. Amaarae — Fountain BabyFeatured Songs: "Counterfeit," "Angels in Tibet," "Sex, Violence, Suicide Pt. 2," "Come Home to God"2. King Krule — Space HeavyFeatured Songs: "Hamburgerphobia," "That Is My Life, That Is Yours," "Pink Shell"3. Jenny Lewis — Joy'AllFeatured Songs: "Joy'All," "Chain of Tears," "Puppy and a Truck"4. Janelle Monáe — The Age of PleasureFeatured Songs: "Champagne Shit," "Black Sugar Beach," "Phenomenal (feat. Doechii)," "Lipstick Lover"5. Keaton Henson — House PartyFeatured Songs: "I'm Not There," "Holiday," "Envy," "Hooray"Lightning Round:Emile Mosseri — Heaven Hunters Feeble Little Horse — Girl With FishSquid — O Monolith Youth Lagoon — Heaven is a JunkyardOther notable releases for June 9:Andy Stack & Jay Hammond — Inter PersonalChristine and the Queens — Paranoia, Angels, True LoveThe Dead Milkmen — Quaker City Quiet PillsDream Wife — Social LubricationGabriel Ólafs — Lullabies For Piano And CelloJason Isbell and the 400 Unit — WeathervanesJayda G — GuyJess Williamson — Time Ain't AccidentalJonny Greenwood and Dudu Tassa — Jarak QaribakThis Is The Kit — Careful Of Your KeepersLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Janelle Monáe discusses her shift towards black joy and acceptance in her latest album, as well as her decision to leave musical theater. She also talks about the creative bond with her music partner, Nate Wonder, and shares a story of Grace Jones topless in their pool.