Janelle Monáe Casually Claims She’s a Time Traveler: ‘i Traveled Back Into the 1970s’

Janelle Monáe: A Time Traveler in the Music Industry?

Musician Janelle Monáe has once again shocked the entertainment world with a claim that seems straight out of a science fiction novel. During an interview published by Rolling Stone, the singer casually stated that she had traveled back in time to the 1970s, specifically to witness David Bowie perform his iconic album “Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.”

In the interview, Monáe shared her love for costumes, attributing it to this alleged past experience. She told Lucy Dacus, another musician, that she had traveled back in time to see Bowie’s legendary performance at a backstage event in 1972. “I traveled back into the 1970s and I saw him do ‘Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars,’ and it was incredible,” Monáe said with a straight face, indicating that she did not see this as anything extraordinary.

Monáe’s Previous Claims of Time Travel

This isn’t the first time Janelle Monáe has discussed her alleged time-traveling experiences. In 2014, she told The Guardian that she is “part-android” and believes there is a time traveling machine in Atlanta from which she has “been through.” In 2022, Monáe further solidified her stance by telling Rock Cellar magazine: “I am a time traveler. But I’m actively choosing to not time travel, to not go to the future, but to stay right where I am and to not allow these moments to pass me by.”

The Viral Impact of Monáe’s Claim

Monáe’s latest claim has quickly spread across social media platforms, sparking curiosity and confusion among her fans. On Instagram, one fan commented, “My girl lucy had the reaction for all of us,” while another added humorously, “Janelle was like did I stutter when she reiterated her point and you know I love that for her.” The singer’s time travel claims have also gained attention in mainstream media outlets such as Sherri Shepherd’s daytime talk show and the Today Show. Host Jenna Bush Hager suggested that Monáe might possess “powers beyond our understanding,” while Savannah Guthrie declared, “I believe her.”

Monáe’s time-traveling narrative extends beyond just interviews; it also influences how she approaches public events like the Met Gala. In a May 2023 video for Allure, Monáe discussed how she would be attending the event as her “time-traveling self,” honoring the past, present, and future through style.

Expert Perspectives on Monáe’s Claims

The entertainment industry often blurs the line between reality and fiction. While some may dismiss Monáe’s claims as mere whimsical storytelling, others see value in her unique perspective. Music journalist and critic David Fricke, who interviewed Monáe for Rolling Stone, noted that such unconventional narratives can inspire creativity and open up new possibilities within the music world.

“Monáe’s approach to time travel is more than just a fun anecdote,” said Fricke. “It challenges our perceptions of reality and allows us to imagine different ways of experiencing art and culture.” Critics argue that these claims, while seemingly absurd on the surface, can provide artists with a unique lens through which they explore themes of identity and creativity.

Conclusion

Janelle Monáe’s claim to have traveled back in time to witness David Bowie at his peak is a fascinating example of how art and science fiction intersect in contemporary culture. While some may view her statements as a playful narrative device, others see them as a powerful tool for exploration and self-expression. As Monáe continues to craft her unique identity within the music industry, her alleged time-traveling experiences remain a central part of her artistic vision.