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Janelle Monáe is having a stellar year. The singer, who has received rave reviews for her Electric Lady album, has been named the recipient of Billboard’s Rising Star Award.
According to the publication, the funky singer will receive the coveted accolade during the 2013 Billboard Women in Music event, which takes place in New York City on December 10.
“Being recognized for your hard work and passion is always humbling and encouraging. I feel honored Billboard has taken note of my journey in the music industry thus far,” Monáe says. “I hope by receiving this award I’m encouraging aspiring acts to stay true to their own artistic visions and never give up.”
Janelle joins an elite group of women who were previous Rising Star honorees, including Nicki Minaj and Lady Gaga.
The Electric Lady features guest spots from Prince, Erykah Badu, Solange Knowles, Miguel and Esperanza Spalding as well as contributions from co-executive producers Sean “Diddy” Combs and OutKast‘s Big Boi. The singer is currently touring to promote the disc, making stops in major U.S. cities including Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas and Miami, before wrapping up on November 26 in Atlanta.
Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio
