On September 22, 2023, music enthusiasts welcomed the return of MONA, the brainchild of US vocalist, songwriter, and producer Nick Brown. With their latest single, “Told Ya,” released via ZionnoiZ Recordings/Ingrooves/Virgin Music Group, MONA offers more than just a song; it’s an introspective journey through life’s unpredictable seasons.
“Told Ya” transcends the surface of music, plunging deep into the intricacies of existence. While its lyrics may appear straightforward at first glance, they unfurl layers of depth and significance upon personal reflection. This song isn’t about grandiosity, hype, or status; it’s a blank canvas for listeners to paint their narratives. MONA eloquently reminds us that life unfolds in a continuous cycle of seasons, urging us to savor the ongoing ride.
Originally hailing from Dayton, Ohio, Nick Brown, the creative force behind MONA, now calls Nashville, Tennessee, home. The band’s name pays tribute to Nick’s grandmother, Mona Brown. MONA burst into the limelight after appearing in the BBC Sound of 2011 poll, ultimately winning the Brand-New Act award at the MTV awards that same year.
Guided by legendary Nude Records owner Saul Galpern, MONA signed with Island Records, releasing their self-titled, self-produced debut album. This inaugural offering skyrocketed into the UK Top 40 and the US Top 20 charts. The album featured hit singles like “Listen to Your Love,” “Trouble on the Way,” “Teenager,” and “Shooting the Moon.” Their electric performances graced prestigious stages, including BBC’s Later with Jools Holland, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and Conan. The band’s excellence earned them the title of one of NME’s Best New Bands.
Post-album release, MONA embarked on a globe-trotting tour, enchanting audiences at some of the world’s largest and most prestigious festivals. From Glastonbury to Coachella, Reading/Leeds to Lollapalooza, their music resonated worldwide. They shared stages with musical icons such as Kings of Leon, Noel Gallagher, The Walkmen, Morrissey, Johnny Marr, Queen, Billy Idol, The Zombies, The Wombats, and July Talk. MONA’s prior single, released in July, garnered critical acclaim. Described as an indie-rock track that transcends music, becoming a reflection on the multifaceted nature of existence, “Nothing Is Dead” earned accolades from publications like GSGM and Flex.
As Nick Brown explores various creative avenues, including co-writing and featuring on Candlebox’s farewell album, the spirit of MONA continues to captivate audiences. Promising worldwide touring in 2023/2024, including a special appearance on Candlebox’s USA summer farewell tour, MONA remains an enduring force in the music world.
In “Told Ya,” MONA invites us to embrace the ebbs and flows of life’s melodies. Their music encourages us to become the authors of our unique narratives, serving as a constant reminder that life’s journey is an everlasting adventure, with much yet to be discovered.
Connect with on
English