*Victoria Monét delivered a powerful message about industry gatekeeping while hosting the fourth annual Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis Black Music Action Coalition Music Maker Dinner.
The January 28 event, held at The Sun Rose in West Hollywood in partnership with ASCAP, featured the Grammy-winner challenging attendees to rethink how they wield influence within the music business, according to THR.
Monét opened her remarks by distinguishing between raw talent and actual career success. “As a musician, I’ve learned that talent alone is not what carries you through the music industry,” Monét began. “Talent is everywhere. What truly makes the difference is access, and more specifically, mentorship. Having someone who sees you, who believes in you, who’s willing to share not just their wisdom, but their pathways to success. But I also want to talk about two other layers of this industry; those two things are gatekeeping and nepotism.”
The singer proposed a shift in perspective regarding controversial industry practices. “The truth is the music industry exercises both extensively, but I feel like instead of asking, ‘how do we eliminate gatekeeping and nepotism’ — because realistically power structures will always exist — I would want to ask, ‘how do we use them responsibly?’ Gatekeeping is not necessarily negative. Nepotism is not inherently negative either. It depends on who and how they’re used. They become harmful when they’re exercised selfishly or to preserve comfort.”
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Monét urged industry executives to leverage their positions strategically. “Instead of cultivating excellence, put yourself in positions of influence — creative, financial, cultural — not just to advance your own career, but to become a bridge for others,” she added. “Be discerning, yes. Have standards, absolutely, but when you see someone who is talented, aligned, hardworking, and deserving, open the door.”
The artist wrapped her speech by emphasizing that professional accomplishments matter less than the assistance provided to emerging talent, noting that legacy involves “who we helped rise alongside us.”
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