Meet CJ Monét | Visual and Music Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with CJ Monét and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi CJ, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I think that the most important factor behind my success has been my work ethic/consistency. Even though that is technically two things, they very much go hand-in-hand as far as the success of my business and brand. A lot of people have great ideas but the willingness to act on them and work on creative ventures with the same time, attention, and care as a 9-5 (and probably more hours than that if I am honest) has made all the difference for me in building my brand.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am different than other artists because I try to actively blur the lines between art and music. I want my music to feel like art and my art is greatly influenced by music as well. I am excited by this because I want to create and do something that feels fresh and new and that hasn’t been seen before.

I got to where I am at now by working hard and adjusting when things I did were not working. I think a huge part of having a successful brand or business is being able to pivot when feedback is telling you that certain things are working and others are not. It has not been easy by any means but I continue to trust my gut and make decisions that feel authentic to me and my brand.

I have definitely learned that there is no one right way to do things. Be open to new ideas and new ways of doing things because we never know how it will work until we try it.

The only thing I want the world to take away from my brand and my story is that they can do anything they want to do. If you love something (or even multiple things for that matter) and you want to make it work, pretend like there is no option but for it to work. Keep going, live authentically and let your brand reflect that and authentic things will come to you in return.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my friend was coming in town I would definitely take them to Golden Belt to see my studio and all the other amazing artists at Golden Belt, including the DAG Gallery as well. I would take them to eat at Thai at Main Street, The Press, Pure Soul, Mezcalito, and/or Indian Monsoon! There are so many good places to eat in Durham. I would also take them to the 21c to see the artwork there as well and to walk around downtown.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost I want to shoutout my mom! She has been my biggest supporter since day one and none of this would be possible without her. My friends are also a constant support and encouragement for me as well! They inspire me every day to create and be true to myself. Also a huge shout out to my team with Not a Show! We are shaking up the music culture in the triangle and I couldn’t be happier about that.

Website: https://www.cjmonetart.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cj.monet/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@cjmonet8120

Image Credits
Pic of me in the garden is by @mad_creates_ Pic of me in black and white is by @michaelgarciapics All other art is by me!