19 Best Janelle Monáe Songs

Janelle Monáe is a musical chameleon. Her sound blends funk, R&B, and sci-fi pop into a unique sonic cocktail. This genre-defying artist has captivated audiences with her bold vision and electric performances.

Monáe’s collaborations read like a who’s who of music royalty. She’s shared the stage with Prince, Outkast, and Grimes. Her songs showcase her versatility, from soulful ballads to high-energy anthems. Let’s dive into the best tracks from this boundary-pushing artist.

1. We Are Young (feat. Janelle Monáe) – fun., Janelle Monáe

We Are Young (feat. Janelle Monáe) by fun. is a powerful anthem from 2012 that blends indie pop with anthemic rock. The song’s vigorous piano chords and soaring choruses captivate listeners, creating an uplifting yet nostalgic vibe. Lyrically, it reflects on youthful escapades, resilience, and the desire for connection amid life’s chaos.

Janelle Monáe’s collaboration adds an extra layer of dynamism. Her vocals intertwine seamlessly with the band’s, providing a compelling contrast. The song’s reception was impressive, earning critical acclaim and securing a Grammy Award for Song of the Year, highlighting its resonance with fans and critics alike.

2. Make Me Feel – Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe’s 2018 song Make Me Feel bursts with vibrant energy and funk. Channeling Prince’s influence, it boasts a lively rhythm, punctuated by percussive handclaps and an irresistible bassline. With its catchy hooks and Monáe’s dynamic vocals, the track invites listeners to dance and revel in the joyous celebration of love and self-expression.

Genre and style elements shine through in Make Me Feel, where a blend of funk, pop, and R&B creates a fresh yet nostalgic sound. The song’s production is pristine, skillfully highlighting each instrument’s unique role while merging them into a seamless groove. Critics and fans alike praised this modern classic for its infectious beat and Monáe’s electrifying performance.

3. I Like That – Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe’s I Like That from 2018 is a stunning portrayal of self-love and personal strength. The R&B and funk fusion she crafts is seamless, blending smooth vocals with vibrant beats. Her lyrics emphasize confidence and embracing your uniqueness.

Monáe received significant acclaim for this track. It resonated with both fans and critics, praising her for its empowering message. The song’s success helped cement her place as a pioneering artist in contemporary music.

4. Float (feat. Seun Kuti & Egypt 80) – Janelle Monáe, Seun Kuti, Egypt 80

Float (feat. Seun Kuti & Egypt 80) by Janelle Monáe is a vibrant Afrobeat track from 2023. The song blends energetic rhythms with powerful brass sections, creating an electric atmosphere. Monáe’s vocals ride the beat with an effortless cool, making it a standout in her eclectic discography.

Seun Kuti and Egypt 80’s collaboration infuses the song with an authentic, lively energy. Their contribution adds layers of rich, traditional African sounds. This fusion of talent results in a track that’s both timeless and forward-thinking.

5. Champagne Shit – Janelle Monáe

Champagne Shit by Janelle Monáe, from her 2023 album The Age of Pleasure, is an intoxicating fusion of funk, R&B, and pop. The song’s gleaming production and lush instrumentation create a buoyant atmosphere that’s as effervescent as its title suggests. With thumping basslines and smooth brass sections, it captures the spirit of a lavish celebration, making you want to dance and lose yourself in the moment.

The song revolves around themes of luxury, empowerment, and living unapologetically. Lyrics like I’m living life like it’s a party encapsulate its carefree essence. The reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans praising Monáe’s charismatic delivery and the song’s infectious energy, making it a standout track of the year.

6. Venus Fly – Grimes, Janelle Monáe

Venus Fly by Grimes and Janelle Monáe is a high-energy track that merges elements of experimental pop and electronic. The song bursts with intense beats, fiery synths, and layered vocals, creating a futuristic soundscape. It captures a raw, unrestrained vibe that’s both aggressive and electrifying.

Musical composition for this track heavily relies on sharp electronic instrumentation and dynamic production. The pulsing rhythms and intricate synth patterns make the song feel alive and pulsating. This meticulous arrangement showcases both artists’ flair for blending innovative sounds with mainstream appeal.

7. Tightrope (feat. Big Boi) – Janelle Monáe, Big Boi

Tightrope (feat. Big Boi) by Janelle Monáe, from her 2010 album The ArchAndroid, mashes up funky grooves with a modern twist. The track fuses R&B, soul, and hip-hop elements, creating a vibrant and infectious rhythm. Big Boi’s guest verse adds an extra layer of swagger, making for an unforgettable listening experience.

The lyrics revolve around staying balanced and resilient in the face of life’s ups and downs. Monáe sings about perseverance and maintaining grace under pressure, delivering an empowering message. The production quality is top-notch, featuring crisp beats, bouncy bass lines, and polished vocals that stand out brilliantly.

8. Haute – Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe’s Haute from 2023 is a vibrant fusion of genres. The song seamlessly blends elements of pop, funk, and R&B, delivering an energetic beat that invites listeners to dance. Monáe’s commanding vocals ride atop a sophisticated arrangement of synths, bass, and dynamic percussion, creating an infectious groove that stands out.

Picking number five for more detail, the song’s influences shine through, reflecting Monáe’s eclectic tastes. Drawing inspiration from Prince’s funk legacy and the futuristic sounds of her earlier work, Haute feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking. These influences create a unique auditory tapestry that resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners.

9. Pynk (feat. Grimes) – Janelle Monáe, Grimes

Pynk (feat. Grimes) by Janelle Monáe and Grimes, released in 2018, is a striking song that melds elements of pop, R&B, and futuristic funk. It stands out with its lush synths, rhythmic beats, and Monáe’s captivating vocals intertwined with Grimes’ ethereal harmonies. The track is an ode to femininity and empowerment, celebrating diversity and inclusivity with vivid, lyrical imagery.

The music video is as bold as the song itself, filled with vibrant, surreal visuals that accentuate the track’s themes. It features Janelle Monáe and her dancers in stunning, visually arresting outfits, including the much-talked-about vulva pants, which have become iconic. This video adds layers of meaning and underscores the song’s celebration of the feminine form and freedom of expression.

10. Yoga – Janelle Monáe, Jidenna

Yoga by Janelle Monáe and Jidenna, released in 2015, is a vibrant mix of hip-hop and R&B. Its upbeat tempo and bold lyrics create a strong sense of empowerment and self-expression. The song’s groove is infectious, urging listeners to embrace their individuality.

A standout element is the production quality. The crisp beats and layered vocals exemplify top-tier production techniques. Every sound is polished, ensuring the song is both sonically impressive and dance-floor ready.

11. The Rush (feat. Nia Long & Amaarae) – Janelle Monáe, Amaarae, Nia Long

The song The Rush by Janelle Monáe, featuring Nia Long and Amaarae, from 2023, blends elements of R&B, funk, and Afrobeat. It offers a seductive and rhythmic melody accompanied by smooth, soulful vocals. The lyrics explore themes of passion, desire, and the intoxicating feeling of being in love.

The musical arrangement stands out with its rich instrumentation, including deep bass lines, rhythmic percussion, and lush, layered harmonies. The production quality is top-notch, employing advanced techniques that highlight the warmth and depth of the sound. Critics and fans alike have praised the song for its vibrant energy and smooth fusion of genres.

12. Phenomenal (feat. Doechii) – Janelle Monáe, Doechii

Phenomenal featuring Doechii by Janelle Monáe, released in 2023, radiates with an infectious blend of R&B and hip-hop. The song pulsates with vibrant beats and a fierce rhythm, drawing listeners into its energetic core. Monáe and Doechii’s voices intertwine seamlessly, creating a powerful harmony that’s hard to resist.

The theme revolves around empowerment and self-expression, as both artists celebrate individuality and strength. Lines like I know I’m phenomenal are striking, emphasizing confidence and independence. Bold production techniques enhance the track, with sharp bass lines and dynamic transitions that keep the energy flowing high.

13. Primetime (feat. Miguel) – Janelle Monáe, Miguel

Primetime (feat. Miguel) by Janelle Monáe and Miguel is a timeless R&B track from 2013. The song merges smooth, soulful melodies with a touch of funk, creating an intoxicating atmosphere. Monáe’s ethereal vocals blend seamlessly with Miguel’s rich tone, resulting in a beautiful duet that’s both alluring and emotive.

The theme of Primetime revolves around the longing for a perfect romantic moment. It captures that electric feeling when two people are in perfect sync, ready to seize the night. Lyrics like Tick-tock, I’m watching the clock, heighten the sense of anticipation and passion, making it a memorable love anthem.

14. Water Slide – Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe’s 2023 track Water Slide flows with an eclectic mix of funk and R&B, showcasing her bold artistry. The song teems with smooth, sultry vocals layered over groovy basslines and catchy melodies. It flaunts an irresistible summer vibe, making it a standout piece in her discography.

Musical composition anchors the song with its rich instrumentation that includes prominent brass sections and rhythmic guitar riffs. The production shines, too, employing intricate sound layering and crisp acoustics. Each element syncs perfectly, creating a polished sonic experience that entrances listeners.

15. Only Have Eyes 42 – Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe’s song Only Have Eyes 42, released in 2023, is a stunning blend of contemporary R&B and neo-soul. It’s filled with soulful melodies and smooth beats that perfectly frame her rich, evocative voice. The lyrics center around an all-consuming love, painting a picture of devotion and emotional intensity.

The musical composition is a standout. It features lush orchestration, including strings and mellow brass, which adds warmth and depth. The production quality is top-notch, with crisp, clear sound that highlights every nuance of Monáe’s vocal performance. It’s a testament to her dedication to high-quality artistry.

16. What Is Love – Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe’s What Is Love from 2014 is a vibrant track rich with Afrobeat influences. The song, featured on the Rio 2 soundtrack, effortlessly blends upbeat rhythms with Monáe’s soulful voice, creating an infectious energy. Listeners are drawn in by the lively percussion and the catchy, feel-good vibes that define the track.

In terms of theme and lyrics, the song explores the idea of love in its purest form. Monáe’s lyrics celebrate joy, togetherness, and the fun that comes with love. It’s an anthem to those wonderful, warm feelings, making you want to dance and bask in its positivity.

17. Q.U.E.E.N. (feat. Erykah Badu) – Janelle Monáe, Erykah Badu

Janelle Monáe’s q.u.e.e.n. (feat. Erykah Badu) is an electrifying fusion of funk, soul, and hip-hop. The track’s bold and rebellious energy is apparent from the very first beat, driven by a thumping bass line, groovy guitar riffs, and Monáe’s commanding vocals. Erykah Badu’s distinctive voice adds a mesmerizing layer, creating a captivating blend that’s both retro and futuristic.

The music video is equally unforgettable, featuring a high-concept, afrofuturistic aesthetic. Monáe and Badu portray statues brought to life in a museum, symbolizing liberation and defiance against societal norms. This visual feast not only complements the song’s themes but also amplifies its message of self-expression and empowerment.

18. Lipstick Lover – Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe’s 2023 track Lipstick Lover oozes sensual energy and sophistication. The song falls into the neo-soul genre with a blend of funk, offering smooth beats and lush instrumentals. Monáe’s sultry vocals champion self-expression and serve as an ode to the playful, confident spirit of love.

The music video displays a vibrant tapestry of colors and glamorous visuals, fitting the song’s seductive vibe. Monáe and her entourage revel in liberated joy, celebrating both queer love and self-empowerment. It’s both empowering and visually captivating, making it a standout in her discography.

19. Unbreakable – Janelle Monáe, Kelly Clarkson

Unbreakable by Janelle Monáe and Kelly Clarkson, released in 2019, dazzles with its fierce and uplifted spirit. Blending pop and R&B, the track’s infectious rhythm hooks you from the start. The powerful vocals from both artists create a layered harmony that shoots straight into your soul.

The production quality stands out, combining crisp beats with lush orchestration. Each instrument pops, from the thumping bass to the sparkling synths. Critics and fans alike praised the track for its anthemic feel and impeccable sound engineering, cementing its place as a memorable hit.