In the words of Funky Dineva: Yes, GAWD.
We didn’t really need to hear “Q.U.E.E.N.”, Janelle Monáe‘s first single since 2010—a collaboration with Erykah Badu, to know that it was going to be several shades of fierce freshness. And we didn’t need to see the video for “Q.U.E.E.N.” to know that Janelle was going to put in WORK.
And yet, she still managed to defy expectations.
Sure, everyone loves a comeback. But everyone loves a good ol’ emancipation just as much—especially when there’s a former Disney pop princess involved.
Miley Cyrus already began stretching her wings and flying far, far away from the castle when Can’t Be Tamed dropped 3 years ago. Since then, Mileybird’s truly discovered her freedom. And now, she’s so in her element in the studio—happily crafting cuts with Pharrell and Snoop Dogg (the murky, reggae-infused “Ashtrays & Heartbreaks” is one of 2013′s better offerings already)—that she barely even remembers what the Magic Kingdom looks like.
The singer’s been pretty tight-lipped about her new project for over a year, which a nearly impressive feat in a world where every tweet and every Instagram is a news story. But the time has come, and Miley is finally starting to speak out.
V‘s fantastic interview captures the pop princess-turned-self-realized songstress at her most assured and outspoken yet: She sounds like a fearless young woman who’s found her voice, much like Britney during In The Zone or Madonna during…well, her entire career. She’s incredibly insightful too, in the way that only a former pop star burned one too many times could be. And, most importantly, she’s in control—Janet style.
The whole article’s a must, along with the bold, sexy Mario Testino-shot editorial spread, of course. (It’s sort of Hard Candy Madonna-meets-Sharon Stone.)
Here are some especially amazing moments.
Our worst fears have finally been realized, and everything is a nightmare: will.i.cant really is executive producing Britney‘s 8th studio album.
Time for a sweet surprise.
Goth-pop Tumblrwave princess Charli XCX, who put out one of our favorite albums of 2013 so far, is heading out on a North American tour in May with Queen Marina + The Diamonds, who put out one of our favorite albums of 2012. Evidently, they’ve been spending some time with each other in the recording studio—and the kitchen, it seems.
Today, the twosome whipped up a collaboration: “Just Desserts” — a previously leaked Marina demo called “The Other Foot,” now reworked with Charli as a vengeful slice of blood, guts and chocolate cake.
Earlier today, I got on the hotline and spoke with the Thrower of Body Parties, Giver of Fantasy Rides and all-around Crunk-R&B Queen herself, Ciara. You know, as one does.
Why? Well, I wanted to talk about her upcoming record Ciara, obviously—but mostly because I had to get to the bottom of this whole “He Reads” business from the “Body Party” video. I also wanted to know why she’s apparently featured on her own song (“Super Turnt Up”). Oh, and to demand that “Overdose” be released as a single.
I managed to accomplish all three. Let’s get it started.
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