Only 20 years old, rising Richmond R&B singer Moneá has learned a lot since the release of her debut EP, 777, released early in 2022. With her new single, “My Eyes Are Open,” she shares her spiritual journey in hopes of inspiring others to look within themselves.
On 777, the dreamy Aquarius opened her heart with songs like “Universe,” in which she sings: “The other half of me wants to cry, but the cosmos told me this — baby girl, you’ll be just fine. The stars will align.” Lyrical affirmations like this one affirm to listeners that no matter the ups and downs, things will come together when the timing is right. Moneá knows of what she speaks: as a teenager, her mind was fogged with the same concerns many of us have. Her thoughts were occupied with wondering where life would take her. Eventually, she left school to pursue music full-time. Now, Moneá encourages everyone to listen to the universe and not be afraid of chasing their dreams. After all, you never know where you may end up.
The songs contained on 777 explore topics of self-love and self-worth, as well as relationships and the complexities that come with them. “The songs on this project were like diary entries, and captured my current healing and spiritual journey,” Moneá said. She went on to explain that the biggest takeaway she’s gotten from the journey thus far is that everyone’s path is different, and that each person you interact with is also traveling through their own unique journey. Remembering this, she says, will help you be kinder and more understanding.
Being a full-time artist and musician is an uneasy thing for Moneá at times. Sharing her own intensely personal work, knowing how many eyes and ears are paying attention to her art, has caused her some anxiety, she says. But she stays calm during anxious times by practicing breathing exercises and journaling before performances or releases. “Staying grounded in who you are is important,” she said. “Do not let the industry change you. I always pray with my dad before a performance, and step outside from the crowd to take time with myself.”
Spiritual practices like these are at the core of Moneá’s philosophy as an artist. She expands on them as part of her TikTok presence, where she enlightens her more than 38 thousand followers on ways they can start their own spiritual journey.
Her spiritual practices have a more concrete influence over her music career as well; her latest single, “My Eyes Are Open,” was released on August 11, in conjunction with the full moon. “I always try to release around full moons because of the good energy it brings,” she explained.
“My Eyes Are Open” is a hypnotic slice of R&B driven by a heavy backbeat that creates a strong contrast with Moneá’s ethereal vocals. Lyrically, she describes a sweet dream of love that becomes more complicated and introduces uncomfortable questions once reality intrudes. For Moneá, the question is this: should she chase the dream and pursue her love, or hold back and play it safe?
Will Moneá let the dream become a distant memory, or turn it into real-world inspiration? Find out by following along with her journey as it continues. You can keep up with Moneá on TikTok @moneaofthemoon or on Instagram @moneaofthemoon.
Next up for Moneá — an international tour pairing her up with other Virginia artists in a showcase taking place in London. Of course, we don’t expect any of our Richmond readers to make it over, but if you know anyone who’s in London next week, pass them the word! Here’s the poster for the event:
