Janelle Monáe

Image via Clutch

This girl has it all - the voice, the moves, the style and at only 25, she's been living the American Dream.  Growing up in Kansas City and later living and performing in Atlanta, she caught the attention of Big Boi, who signed her to Bad Boy Records.  She worked with Outkast and released a single back in '07, but only recently has she risen to fame.  Her music and style is reminiscent of '60s Soul blended with modern R&B, hip-hop, and pop.  If you haven't listened to her music before, check her out - Janelle Monáe is going to be big.

Her song "Tightrope" was nominated for a Grammy as Best Urban/Alternative Performance and she will be performing live at the show tonight.  She stated in an interview about the video that "dancing is the cure to get rid of all evil," and that the song is about finding balance in your life.  It showcases her eccentricity and her talent as a performing artist and singer.  Paired with some awesome dance moves and cool retro style, it's definitely worth checking out.


Watch the Tightrope video...

and also check out her video for Cold War.