Janelle Monáe

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.

Janelle Monáe, a multifaceted artist known for their work in music and film, joins the conversation to explore their unique creative process and the allure of sci-fi in storytelling. They discuss themes of duality and how family gatherings inspire their work. Sarah Edwards, the costume designer behind 'Severance,' shares insights into the show's distinctive dress code and the challenges of costume design, especially during the pandemic. Their engaging banter reveals the intricate ways they navigate creativity and mentorship in the industry.

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.