Victoria Monét’s “Thriller” Ambition Signals a Seismic Shift in the Music Release Cycle
The pressure to constantly feed the algorithm is crushing creativity. That’s the quiet rebellion brewing in the music industry, and Victoria Monét is leading the charge. Fresh off the monumental success of Jaguar II, the Grammy-winning artist isn’t rushing to capitalize on the momentum. Instead, she’s taking a page from Michael Jackson’s playbook, specifically the deliberate, meticulous approach he took between Off the Wall and Thriller – a move that could redefine how artists approach album creation and release in the streaming era.
Beyond “On My Mama”: A New Era of Intentionality
Monét’s breakout year, propelled by the hit single “On My Mama,” has undeniably elevated her status. Having already proven her songwriting prowess with credits for artists like Ariana Grande and Chris Brown, she’s now firmly established as a force in her own right. But the accolades haven’t fueled a desire for rapid-fire releases. As she revealed on Ciara’s “Level Up Radio,” the speed of her success was almost *too* fast. She needed time to “live life” and cultivate a project worthy of following up such a critically acclaimed album.
The “Thriller” Blueprint: Vocal Excellence and Artistic Risk
This isn’t simply about taking a break; it’s about a fundamental shift in creative process. Monét explicitly stated her ambition: “If I made Off the Wall, I’m trying to make a Thriller next.” This isn’t hyperbole. She’s prioritizing vocal perfection and a level of artistic depth that demands time and dedication. The visual cues in her “Alright” video – nods to both Michael and Janet Jackson’s iconic choreography and style – aren’t accidental. They’re a declaration of intent, signaling a willingness to embrace a bolder, more visually and sonically ambitious direction.
Why the Jackson Inspiration Matters
The leap from Off the Wall to Thriller wasn’t just a change in sound; it was a cultural phenomenon. Jackson meticulously crafted an album that transcended genre, pushing boundaries in music video production and storytelling. Monét’s aspiration to replicate this isn’t about imitation, but about embracing a similar level of artistic risk and ambition. She’s recognizing that true impact requires more than just a catchy single; it demands a cohesive, immersive experience.
Defying the Algorithm: A Restaurant Analogy for the Modern Music Industry
Monét’s resistance to the pressure of constant content creation is particularly insightful. She eloquently described the current music industry as a “restaurant” where artists are expected to immediately deliver another hit after a successful release. This relentless demand, driven by streaming algorithms, often sacrifices quality for quantity. Her refusal to play this game is a powerful statement about artistic integrity and the importance of allowing creative processes to unfold naturally. This approach directly challenges the prevailing streaming-driven music economy, where consistent output is often prioritized over artistic depth.
The Future of Album Releases: A Return to the “Event”
Monét’s strategy could herald a return to the “album as event” model. For decades, album releases were carefully orchestrated moments, built up with anticipation and accompanied by significant marketing campaigns. The streaming era has largely dismantled this model, favoring a constant stream of singles and EPs. However, artists like Monét, by prioritizing quality and intentionality, are demonstrating that there’s still an appetite for the immersive, carefully crafted album experience. This could inspire other artists to resist the pressure of the algorithm and focus on creating truly impactful bodies of work. The focus on vocal excellence and a cohesive artistic vision, as Monét emphasizes, will likely become increasingly valued in a saturated market.
Victoria Monét isn’t just making an album; she’s making a statement. Her commitment to artistic integrity and her bold ambition to create a “Thriller-level” experience are a refreshing counterpoint to the demands of the modern music industry. This isn’t just about one artist’s creative journey; it’s about a potential shift in the entire landscape of music creation and release. What are your predictions for the future of album releases? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
