Victoria Monét’s rise to Grammy-winning success wasn’t built on luxury splurges but on a bold $150,000 investment. While most artists would use their first major publishing advance for lavish purchases, Monét took the road less traveled and poured that money into touring. This decision proved to be a career-changing move, showcasing her dedication and practical approach to her craft.
A Game-Changing $150K Decision
In an interview, Monét revealed that her first major advance from a publishing deal was $150,000. Instead of following the industry’s trend of buying expensive cars or houses, she decided to spend every penny on touring. “I didn’t go buy a fancy car or house,” Monét explained. “I took that money and I spent it on a tour.”
The move was both strategic and practical. Without a management team, hairstylist, or makeup artist, Monét took matters into her own hands. She did her own hair, makeup, and even hired her cousin to handle photos and footage from the tour. With help from her mother, she planned her tour routes and worked hard to secure opening spots for major acts like Fifth Harmony and Ariana Grande.
The Impact of Touring on Her Career
Investing in touring allowed Monét to grow her fan base in an authentic way. “I think it became a place where a lot of people discovered who I am,” she said. By connecting directly with fans and opening for major artists, she slowly but steadily built her following. The fan base she cultivated on tour later became the foundation for her success in the music industry.
Though some questioned her choices at the time, Monét remained confident. “Some people were like, ‘You just got this deal. Why aren’t you in a good apartment? Why is your car like that?’” she remembered. But the artist knew her long-term vision: focusing on her career rather than short-term luxuries.
A Practical Approach to the Industry
Monét’s savvy decisions didn’t stop with touring. Before her rise as a Grammy-winning artist, she worked as a songwriter and learned how to vocal produce and engineer music to make ends meet. “Songwriters aren’t paid their rates in the studio, but the engineers are,” she explained. By acquiring multiple skills, she was able to sustain herself financially while keeping her eyes on bigger dreams.
Her dedication paid off. Monét has now won multiple Grammys, including Best New Artist and Best R&B Album in 2024. Her success story is a testament to the importance of making wise investments and trusting in the process.
A Message to New Artists
For rising artists, Monét’s journey offers a powerful lesson in self-investment. “If you don’t invest in yourself, how could you expect anybody else to want to?” she emphasized. “You have to put your money where your mouth is and do it yourself.”
Her message is one of perseverance and sacrifice. “Sometimes it takes a lot of sacrifice. Sometimes it may be dark and lonely and embarrassing, but you’ll get the payoff. The sunlight is coming,” she encouraged.
