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A hit record, an alleged punch and years of beef have all led up to this moment. Brandy and Monica are reuniting to participate in a Verzuz battle. These battles have taken quarantine by storm and, over the weekend, Brandy and Monica announced that they will be participating in the trend. This news can be summed up in one word: Iconic.
Brandy and Monica Have Never Liked Each Other
Now, if you know anything about these R&B queens, then you know their relationship has been quite tumultuous to say the least. It all began in 1998 when they released their hit single, “The Boy Is Mine.” Soon after the song’s release, rumors of their alleged feud began circulating. In fact, the two didn’t meet IRL until the filming of the song’s video, and even then, barely talked to one another.
Apparently, the drama surrounding them and their song climaxed when Monica allegedly decked Brandy in the face just before they went on stage at the 1998 VMA’s to perform their Grammy-award-winning song together for the first (and only) time. Why? Some say it’s because Monica felt the first Black Cinderella was too much of a “goody two shoes.” Others say it’s because she didn’t appreciate that Brandy was promoting the song without her. Either way, that punch was enough to keep their beef alive for literal decades.
Brandy and Monica Tried to Make Up
Years after this incident, the two tried to reconcile and record another much less notable song, “It All Belongs To Me.” The fact they even came together again should be a good sign that the two have reconciled, right? Think again.
Perhaps she thrives from the attention their feud provides. Maybe she just lives for messiness in general. Nevertheless, Ms. Moesha being the petty legend she is, has done her best to keep the beef going. Recently, she changed the song’s lyrics to, “The song is mine,” while performing at Essence Fest in 2018. She also spent way too much time trying to discredit Monica’s relationship with Whitney Houston. But all the while, Monica has been crickets — radio silent — until now.
I can’t help but wonder if she’s just been saving her words (and fists) for this moment. I don’t know about you, but I cannot wait to see how this battle goes down, especially given the singers’ troubled past. Will they keep it classy? Will they turn the Tyler Perry Studios lot where it’s being filmed into a scene from Bad Girls Club? Only time will tell. Tune in to the Verzuz IG account on Monday, Aug. 31st at 5pm PT to see what happens.