At Capitale in New York City, Janelle Monae posed it up with Billboard’s Woman of the Year, Pink, as both CoverGirl spokeswomen hit the red carpet together. Janelle is also a recipient of an award, the mag’s Rising Star award, and she spoke to Billboard about what it means for her movement:
My journey is continuing. We’re not stopping or sitting back and reflecting or saying, “Hey, I’ve made it, I’ve arrived.” I’ve acknowledged it, and am acknowledging now, how encouraging it is to be recognized. This year, releasing “The Electric Lady” — which is deeply rooted in community and the female protagonist story of our community—has been such a great joy to be able to tell stories about these women—these unconventional, universal stories that don’t get talked about or discussed all the time.
I made sure that “The Electric Lady” had strong themes, so many walks of life. And now going out and performing the songs and looking at young girls in the audience being inspired by the album, to tour and know that these stories are really encouraging young girls—to know that they see themselves in the album, as a part of this movement—it’s a sign of success. I feel as though we’re continuing to try to be successful and being just that.