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Wow, Janelle Monáe rocks

I’m a little bit dismayed that I only just found out about the wonder that is Janelle Monáe. This is her track ‘Tightrope’ which features Big Boi of Outkast fame. This song, first of all, is incredible. Janelle has an amazing voice and at times, channels the greatness of Michael Jackson and James Brown. There is so much soul in this music it’s ridiculous. The song takes cues from old school jazz with some slick jazz lines, R&B, hip-hop, dance, pop, and this chick is quietly singing ‘Happy Birthday’ at the end of the song. Random, but sweet. Definitely hearing a background line reminiscent of the background lines in Dizzy Gillespie’s ‘A Night in Tunisia.’

Now, the music video for the track, is perhaps the best music video I’ve seen in a long, long time. Janelle is just so fucking cool. What a badass! The shoes, the dancing, the vibe – I haven’t been in awe like this about a music video since the late 90’s. There is also a video of her and the band performing the track live on Letterman and that is also pretty brilliant.

Do yourself a favor and pick up Janelle’s album, The ArchAndroid – the album’s songs are of a pretty eclectic variety and yet, it’s super cohesive and a seriously awesome listen.

http://www.jmonae.com/