I'm a storyteller who wants to tell untold, meaningful, universal stories in unforgettable ways. I want to do it all, study it all, and find my place in it.
Janelle MonaeRead
It's unfortunate that a lot of people think African-American female artists are monolithically R&B this-or-that, don't have to do anything by default.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Janelle Monae highlights the stereotype that African-American female artists are limited to R&B, emphasizing the need for recognition of their diverse artistic contributions.
In this quote, Janelle Monae expresses her disappointment in the common perception that African-American female artists are predominantly seen as one-dimensional figures within the R&B genre. She advocates for a broader understanding and appreciation of their varied talents and narratives, challenging the notion that their artistic identity is predefined or limited to a specific genre.
Themes
African-AmericanFemale ArtistsStereotypesDiversityMusic
In practice
Example use cases
In a panel discussion about diversity in music, this quote can be used to highlight the need for broader representation.
More from Janelle Monae
All quotes βI have a great body, I really do. But I want to be taken seriously as an artist, and wearing anything that shows it off will be a distraction from the music. That's how my signature uniform, my tuxedo, came about. It's classic and timeless. You'll see me in black, white, and a pop of color on my lips. That pop adds a little magic.
Janelle MonaeRead
Redefine what it means to be sexy and what it means to be a woman. Showing my skin is not what makes me sexy. I like skirts and dresses just like everyone else, but I had a message I needed to put out there. It was up to me to show people and young girls there was another way.
Janelle MonaeRead
Even if it makes others comfortable, I will LOVE who I am
Janelle MonaeRead
I have not lost any of my crazy, fearless, raw, soulful, eclectic side and I plan on continuing to tell universal stories in an unforgettable way.
Janelle MonaeRead
Perfection is often the enemy of greatness.
Janelle MonaeRead
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