Moni Grace is the DIY solo project of a queer, biracial-black 24-year-old singer/songwriter based out of Boston, MA named Monica Whitlock. Through the genre emo/alternative pop, she is able to approach artistry in a conceptual and abstract way.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Moni Grace about the latest release, enduring these unprecedented times, and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and how do You describe your style of music?
I’m an alternative / emo pop artist, but really have been pulling from alternative country roots, specifically for this new one! My music revolves around healing.
How did you get here? As in, what inspired or motivated you to take on this journey through music and the music biz?
I’ve been doing music for pretty much my whole life. I started doing it professionally in 2019/2020 after a bad breakup from an abusive situation.
Modern Baseball is a huge influence— their music saved my life. In high school/ middle school I didn’t have friends and I was severely bullied. I literally went home everyday from school and wrote a song. I have a lot of mental health challenges, such as borderline personality disorder / ptsd and others. I think the only way I’ve been able to communicate how I’m feeling and relate to the world is through my music. I want to use my music as a way to bring light into mental health, feminism and racism.
How does your latest project compare/contrast with your previous release(s)? Were you setting out to accomplish anything specific, follow a specific theme, or explore different styles of creation?
I think this project contrasts in a positive way to my last release, Expiration Date pt1 clara. This release stems from country roots, and goes off of the concepts of taking accountability for hurting others. I think a certain level of healing is required to be able to take full accountability for the way you may have treated others in the past. Whether the reasons being mental health or generally speaking.
Name the biggest challenge you faced as a creative during these unprecedented times? How did you adapt?
Honestly I’ve taken advantage of this isolating time by focusing on writing, remote recording and healing from my own trauma. I’ve released several bodies of work and I wouldn’t have been able to do that without the pandemic due to time.
How have you kept the creative fires burning during all this?
Just creating things for myself instead of for other people, and being authentic to myself in that sense.
What was the last song you listened to?
This diy boston band “Girl Scout cookies” their discography is wonderful.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? 8-tracks? Cassettes? CDs? MP3s? Streaming platforms?
I think all are great but streaming platforms have really helped make music more accessible.
Where is the best place to connect with you and follow your journey?
I really appreciate Your time. Anything else before we sign off?
Thank you for streaming the new single!
