At the 2025 Grammys, Muni Long took the stage in a striking Elizabeth Taylor-inspired look, accepting her second Best R&B Performance award with words of wisdom: “Every new version of yourself requires the death of the previous you.” Her heartfelt speech resonated with fans and fellow artists alike, urging them to embrace change and begin their own journeys of transformation.
Muni Long, born Priscilla Renea Hamilton in Florida, made waves early on through YouTube, where her captivating covers and original songs attracted attention. Her debut album Jukebox (2009) didn’t gain much commercial success, but it set the stage for a blossoming songwriting career. By 2010, Rihanna‘s hit “California King Bed,” penned by Long, became a turning point, propelling her to write for superstars like Mariah Carey, Kelly Clarkson, and Ariana Grande.
Despite widespread success as a songwriter, Long felt stifled. The 36-year-old artist candidly shared with People that she longed to express herself on her own terms, beyond the confines of others’ visions. She knew it was time for a transformation – and in 2020, Priscilla Renea was no more. A clean break: new name, new sound, new look.
Long’s artistic shift wasn’t without its challenges. To fully embrace her new identity, she had to do so in silence. After shedding her old persona, she released “Midnight Snack” and eventually her breakthrough single, “Hrs & Hrs,” which soared thanks to TikTok. It wasn’t long before industry insiders connected Muni Long to her former life as Priscilla Renea – and the doubters emerged.
Despite proving her doubters wrong, Long faced the scrutiny of those who once dismissed her. “People still doubted me,” she said, “but that’s something I’ve learned to walk away from.” She reflected on the difficult but necessary step of rising above past grievances. As she continued to thrive, industry professionals who once mistreated her sought her collaboration – a temptation she resisted, focusing instead on her artistic integrity.
Now, in 2025, Muni Long is living the dream: viral hits, a Grammy, and a Coachella performance on the horizon. Her message remains the same: reinvention is possible. “Please stop calling me Priscilla – it’s Muni Long now,” she asserted during her acceptance speech. And with that, she officially embraced her new identity – a powerful, unapologetic force in the R&B world.
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