Victoria Monét’s story is one of perseverance, hidden genius, and the power of self-belief. Born in Atlanta in 1989 and raised in Sacramento, Monét grew up watching her mother struggle and dreams deferred.

From an early age, she decided she wouldn’t just be talented—she’d be undeniable. By thirteen, she was already writing songs, pouring her heart into melodies that captured emotions beyond her years.

Her journey to stardom began in Los Angeles, where she moved as a teenager with nothing but raw talent and ambition. Monét first made her mark as a songwriter and backing vocalist, penning hits for stars like Ariana Grande, Chloe x Halle, and Brandy. She co-wrote Ariana’s “7 Rings,” “Thank U, Next,” “NASA,” and “Monopoly”—songs that dominated the charts and defined an era.

Yet, while the world sang her words, Monét herself remained invisible, a common fate for songwriters whose names are buried in the credits.

Despite her success behind the scenes, Monét longed for more. She released her first EP, “Nightmares & Lullabies: Act 1,” in 2014, followed by “Act 2” in 2015. Critics praised her work, but commercial breakthrough eluded her.

She continued writing for others, building a reputation as one of music’s best-kept secrets.

Everything changed in 2021 when Monét gave birth to her daughter, Hazel, with fitness trainer John Gaines. Motherhood transformed her priorities and perspective. Monét realized she wanted her daughter to see her create magic for herself, not just for others.

This shift led to the release of “Jaguar” in 2020—a sensual, sophisticated R&B project that declared her arrival as a lead artist.

But it was “Jaguar II,” released in 2023, that truly changed the game. The album was a masterclass in modern R&B, with its lead single “On My Mama” becoming a viral sensation. Suddenly, Monét was no longer just a name in the credits—she was a star in her own right.

The album’s success led to seven Grammy nominations, including Best New Artist, Record of the Year, and Album of the Year. Monét won three Grammys, including Best New Artist, a testament to her years of hard work and resilience.

Her journey wasn’t without controversy. Some questioned her eligibility for Best New Artist, given her decade-long career. Others critiqued her openness about her bisexuality and her refusal to fit into narrow definitions of black womanhood or R&B. Monét addressed these criticisms head-on, advocating for representation, authenticity, and fair treatment for songwriters and queer artists.

As of 2025, Monét’s net worth is estimated at $3 million, reflecting her songwriting royalties, artist success, and business ventures. She’s vocal about the need for better songwriter compensation and aims to support emerging talent through her own label or production company. Monét has also begun exploring directing and producing, collaborating with fashion brands, and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights.

Her relationship with Hazel remains central to her life and artistry. Monét proves that women can be both mothers and ambitious artists, showing her daughter—and the world—that you don’t have to choose between family and dreams.

Her story is a powerful reminder that success comes to those who refuse to stay hidden, and that sometimes the longest path leads to the most meaningful destination. After years of making others shine, Victoria Monét finally claimed her own spotlight, inspiring countless others to do the same.