Photography by Lindsey Ruth
Monét X Change is an R&B superstar on the verge of a breakthrough. The classically trained vocalist, opera singer, actor, and RuPaul’s Drag Race winner is shattering what’s expected of a drag queen’s musical pursuits by pouring heartbreak, authentic storytelling, and soul into her triumphant sophomore record, Grey Rainbow Vol. 1 out May 17 via PEG Records across all platforms.
Inspired by a painful breakup, Grey Rainbow Vol. 1 is co-written by Monét and GRAMMY-nominated songwriter Eritza Laues (Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Charlie Wilson) with production by Cannon Mapp (Melanie Fiona, Jaheim). Grey Rainbow Vol. 1 is a highly personal, melodic, sexy, and genre-bending R&B album. Citing Brandy as her first musical icon, Monét has carefully spent the last year crafting her own R&B sound reminiscent of the one they first fell in love with as a child growing up in Brooklyn.
Why call this record Grey Rainbow first of all?
A lot of people see situations as being either black or white. Some might call these people reasonable. I am not always that…especially when it deals with matters of the heart. I often fantasize and exist in the grey space; in between any and all of it.
Why Vol I? Is this supposed to be a concept album with a follow up already in the works?
So all 15 records were done and I was getting ready to put the project out. Then last minute we had the realization that I was telling two stories that needed to be experienced and given their own moments. Vol. 2 is even more celebratory after the immense heartbreak I wrote about on Vol. 1 There will also definitely be a deluxe with special guest features.
What’s the most important track in the record and why?
One of my personal favorites is “Streetlight”. Whew! My ode to DL men and the heartbreak that follows after falling for them. For so much of my life, this was my experience. The heartache, sadness, depression, and lack of self-worth had me really fucked me up for a long time; and I know it’s not just me. To finally be on the other side and able to sing about it unapologetically is very liberating. I feel free. I feel lighter.
What’s a lesson you learned being in show biz for so many years that helps you to this day?
Authenticity. No one…literally no one can be Monét X Change/Kevin Bertin. So why try to want to be or pretend to be someone else? Who I am is so dope and fly. I love it here.
Who’s your favorite opera singer?
It’s a tie between Jessye Norman and Diana Damrau. Two of the best to ever do it.
How did you fall in love with R&B after being classically trained?
R&B was actually my first love. It’s the music I grew up on. Whether it was listening to Brandy, or watching Midnight Love on BET. R&B also got me through many Sundays cleaning my bedroom and the bathroom.
What can we expect from you after this record?
I think it’s safe to say more music. I’ve fallen in love with the recording process. Like going to the studio and making music is so dope. I want to do it all the time.
