Victoria Monét is a name that has become synonymous with talent, resilience, and smart career moves. Long before her Grammy wins, Monét made a decision that would change her career. Instead of splurging on luxury cars or expensive apartments like many new artists do, Monét took a bold step: she invested her $150K publishing advance into her tour. This decision would set her on the path to becoming one of the most celebrated figures in the music industry.
A Game-Changing Investment: Choosing Touring Over Lavish Purchases
In an industry driven by flashy cars and lavish lifestyles, Monét decided to take a different approach. When she received her first major publishing deal advance, she could have easily bought a fancy car or rented a luxurious apartment. Instead, she chose to invest it all into touring. As she told Visa’s CMO Frank Cooper, “I didn’t go buy a fancy car or house… I took that money and I spent it on a tour.”
This move was not just about the money. Monét saw the tour as an opportunity to build her fan base, create her own support system, and establish herself as an artist in her own right. Without a management team or a stylist, she was doing everything herself, from styling her own hair to handling her own makeup. She even brought her cousin along to take photos and make sure her journey was documented.
Building a Career from Scratch: Monét’s DIY Approach to Touring
What sets Monét apart from many of her peers is her resourcefulness. She didn’t have the traditional industry support when she first started. With help from her mother, she took on the logistics of the tour, including routing and securing spots opening for major artists like Fifth Harmony and Ariana Grande.
Her DIY approach went beyond just the tour. She worked hard to create her brand from the ground up. Monét recalls the skepticism she faced at the time, as people questioned her decision to not spend the money on luxury items. “Maybe to some people they’re like, ‘You just got this deal. Why aren’t you in a good apartment? Why is your car like that?’” she remembers. “But then you’re on tour with the biggest pop star.”
Perseverance Pays Off: How Monét’s Career Took Off
Monét’s decision to prioritize the long game over immediate gratification began to pay off. Her ability to connect with fans and build a solid base paid dividends, and she eventually found herself on bigger stages, performing in front of larger audiences. By staying focused on her career, rather than material gains, Monét created a strong, sustainable platform that would propel her into stardom.
As she reflects on her journey, Monét is clear about the importance of investing in yourself. She believes that if artists don’t make that initial sacrifice, they can’t expect others to invest in them. “If you don’t invest in yourself, how could you expect anybody else to want to?” she says, emphasizing the importance of commitment and self-reliance in the music industry.
From Struggling Artist to Grammy-Winner: Monét’s Strategic Career Moves
Before her breakout success, Monét was a struggling artist and songwriter. But rather than waiting for opportunities, she learned how to vocal produce and engineer to make ends meet. This versatility allowed her to sustain herself financially while she pursued her larger dreams.
Now, with multiple Grammy wins under her belt, including Best New Artist and Best R&B Album in 2024, Monét’s journey is a testament to the power of sacrifice, strategic decision-making, and resilience. As she continues to rise in the music industry, she serves as an inspiration to young artists looking to navigate the tough path to success.
The Long-Term Vision: A Masterclass in Playing the Long Game
Victoria Monét’s story is more than just about choosing between a luxury car and a tour van. It’s about making calculated decisions, prioritizing long-term success over short-term rewards, and being resourceful in the face of challenges. By putting in the work, Monét has proven that hard decisions can lead to great rewards.
Her advice to up-and-coming artists is simple: sometimes, the road to success isn’t glamorous. It’s filled with sacrifices, hard work, and moments of doubt. But, as Monét assures, “The sunlight is coming.” Her career trajectory stands as a masterclass in perseverance, strategy, and playing the long game—successfully.
