If there’s one thing Janelle Monáe knows how to do, it’s command a stage. And at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards, she didn’t just perform—she made history. In a star-studded night that saw the music industry come together to honor Quincy Jones, one of the greatest producers of all time, Monáe delivered a jaw-dropping tribute that left everyone in awe.
A Star-Studded Tribute to Quincy Jones
Before Janelle Monáe even stepped onto the stage, the night had already been filled with emotional and heartfelt tributes to Quincy Jones. Will Smith, Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, and Lainey Wilson each took turns sharing stories and celebrating Jones’ massive contributions to the music industry. Smith, in particular, called the segment a “thriller,” setting the stage for something truly unexpected.
Then, out of nowhere, Janelle Monáe took the stage—and everything changed.
Monáe’s Electrifying Tribute: A Michael Jackson Classic Reborn
When the opening notes of “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” filled the air, the audience knew they were in for something special. But no one could have predicted just how dedicated Monáe was to recreating the iconic 1979 Michael Jackson video that made music history.
Dressed in a sharp tuxedo, complete with MJ’s signature silver socks and black shoes, Monáe wasn’t just paying tribute—she was stepping into the role. Every movement, from the crisp footwork to the legendary moonwalk, was an homage to both Jackson and, more importantly, Quincy Jones, the mastermind producer behind the track.
And she didn’t just stop at the dance moves. Monáe owned the vocals, capturing the infectious energy that made the original song a worldwide hit. Her falsetto soared through the Grammy auditorium, proving once again why she is one of the most dynamic performers of her generation.
Committing to the Bit: The Monáe Magic
Anyone who has ever attempted a Michael Jackson impression knows that it’s all about the details—the sharp turns, the leg kicks, the energy, the attitude. And Monáe nailed every bit of it.
- She grabbed the mic stand, just like Jackson did in the video.
- She hit every spin flawlessly, making the performance feel authentic.
- And yes—she grabbed her crotch, because what MJ tribute would be complete without it?
But the best part? She didn’t just stay on stage. At one point, in an electrifying moment, she jumped on a table, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
Then came the grand finale: Monáe dramatically pulled off her tuxedo, revealing a shirt with the words “I Love QJ.”
Talk about commitment.
The Message Behind the Performance
Monáe’s tribute wasn’t just about showcasing her vocal and dance skills. It was a love letter to Quincy Jones.
While Michael Jackson will always be remembered as one of the greatest performers of all time, the genius behind many of his biggest hits was Quincy Jones. Without Jones’ production and creative vision, albums like Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad wouldn’t have been the masterpieces they became.
And that was the message Monáe wanted to send:
“We wouldn’t have groundbreaking hits like ‘Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough’ without Quincy Jones. Michael had the moves, but Quincy had the vision.”
By recreating an MJ moment in its full glory, Monáe wasn’t just honoring Jackson—she was shining a light on the true architect of those hits.
The Industry Reacts: Standing Ovations and Viral Moments
As the final beats of the song played out, the Grammy audience rose to their feet for a standing ovation. Cameras caught Stevie Wonder clapping enthusiastically, Will Smith cheering, and Lainey Wilson wiping away tears.
The performance immediately went viral, flooding social media with reactions. Some of the best responses included:
- “Janelle Monáe just made history at the Grammys. That was a MASTERPIECE.”
- “This is why she’s one of the best performers of our time. She did that!”
- “The attention to detail was insane. Quincy Jones is smiling somewhere right now.”
Even Quincy Jones himself, watching from the front row, was seen nodding along, clearly moved by the tribute.
What’s Next for Janelle Monáe?
With another legendary performance under her belt, 2025 is shaping up to be yet another milestone year for Janelle Monáe. She has already hinted at new music in the works, and after this Grammy moment, there’s no doubt that fans will be eagerly anticipating her next big move.
Whether she’s releasing genre-defying albums, starring in blockbuster films, or delivering unforgettable live performances, one thing is clear: Janelle Monáe isn’t just an artist—she’s a force of nature.
And after that performance, one thing is certain: Quincy Jones’ legacy is in very, very good hands.
