Monica

Monica Denise Arnold, known professionally as Monica, is an American R&B singer, songwriter, and occasional actress. Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, her musical journey began at a young age. As a child, she was part of Charles Thompson and the Majestics, a gospel choir, before launching her solo career.

Discovered at age eleven by producer Dallas Austin while performing Whitney Houston's "Greatest Love of All," Monica was quickly signed to Rowdy Records, an Arista Records-distributed label. Under the guidance of Austin and manager Queen Latifah, she recorded her debut album, Miss Thang, released in July 1995. The album achieved significant success, reaching number thirty-six on the U.S. Billboard 200 and number seven on the Top R&B Albums chart. It was certified triple platinum and spawned three top-ten singles, including "Don't Take It Personal (Just One of Dem Days)" and "Before You Walk out of My Life." These hits made Monica the youngest artist to have two consecutive number-one singles on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart. Miss Thang earned her a Billboard Music Award and an American Music Award nomination.