Muni Long: The Rise of a Controversial Voice in R&B.

What if I told you that one of the biggest voices in R&B, the woman behind hits for artists like Rihanna, Ariana Grande, and Fifth Harmony, once exposed the music industry for its hypocrisy?

This is the story of Muni Long, a talented songwriter who has navigated the complexities of fame and creativity while challenging the industry’s treatment of Black women.

Known for her bold statements, including the controversial remark, “Only Black women don’t like my personality,” Muni Long has sparked intense discussions on social media, leading to both backlash and support.

From Priscilla Renea to Muni Long

Before she became Muni Long, the Grammy-winning artist known for her viral hit “Hours and Hours,” she was Priscilla Renea Hamilton, a girl from Florida with dreams of making it in the music industry.

Growing up in a modest household—her father served in the Navy, and her mother was a stay-at-home parent—Priscilla turned to music as an escape.

She began writing songs in her bedroom and uploading them to YouTube, gaining a small but loyal following before most of her peers even had social media accounts.

By the age of 18, she had already developed a unique sound, recording original songs in her bathroom, using the acoustics of the shower to compensate for the lack of studio access.

Her dedication caught the attention of Capitol Records, and at 21, she landed her first record deal. However, her debut album, *Jukebox*, failed to gain traction, leaving her feeling lost in an industry that struggled to define her.

The Struggles of a Ghostwriter

After her initial setback, rather than giving up, Priscilla adapted to the industry’s demands. She transitioned from being an artist to a ghostwriter, penning hits for some of the biggest names in music.

Over the next decade, she wrote for stars like Rihanna, Ariana Grande, Fifth Harmony, Madonna, and Mary J. Blige, crafting anthems that topped the charts while remaining largely invisible.

This invisibility shaped her future. When she decided to re-enter the spotlight, she did so as Muni Long—a new persona that embodied her resilience and desire for creative control. She wasn’t just returning to music; she was reclaiming her narrative.

The Rebranding and Breakthrough

Muni Long’s rebranding was strategic. She established her own label, Super Giant Records, ensuring that no major label could shelve her again.

This independence allowed her to maintain full creative control over her music and image. In 2021, she released “Hours and Hours,” a love song that unexpectedly went viral on TikTok, capturing the hearts of listeners everywhere.

The track became a cultural phenomenon, leading to widespread acclaim and earning her a Grammy for Best R&B Performance.

The same industry that once dismissed her for being “too soulful” now had to reckon with her success.

Her album *Public Displays of Affection* showcased her smooth, seductive style, proving she was more than just a one-hit wonder; she was a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.

Exposing Industry Hypocrisy

With her newfound visibility, Muni Long began to speak out against the injustices she witnessed in the music industry.

During a 2024 interview, she revealed a shocking truth: a label executive had once asked her to write “soulful songs for white artists,” essentially requesting that she dilute her sound to cater to a mainstream audience.

This revelation ignited a firestorm on social media, with fans praising her for her honesty while others accused her of exaggerating.

In May 2025, during an Instagram Live session, she made another controversial statement: “Only Black women don’t like my personality.”

This comment sent shockwaves through her fan base, particularly among Black women who had supported her throughout her career.

The backlash was swift, with many feeling blindsided by her words. Critics labeled her arrogant, while supporters argued she was simply tired of the superficiality of the industry.

Personal Struggles and Triumphs

Behind the scenes, Muni Long faced personal challenges that added depth to her story. She was married to producer Racine Haristen for nearly a decade, and together they formed a creative powerhouse.

However, in August 2024, she announced their separation, a decision that shocked fans. She explained that she no longer had time for “nonsense” in her life, a testament to her determination to prioritize her well-being.

In addition to her marital struggles, Muni Long revealed her battle with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that causes severe pain and fatigue.

She described the debilitating symptoms she experiences, including joint pain and exhaustion, which sometimes forced her to cancel performances.

Despite these challenges, she continued to create music and engage with her fans, using her experiences as fuel for her artistry.

The Evolution of Muni Long

Muni Long’s journey is not just about personal struggles; it’s also about redefining what it means to be a successful artist in the R&B genre.

Her ability to navigate the complexities of the music industry while maintaining her authenticity sets her apart from many of her peers.

She has become a role model for aspiring artists, particularly Black women, showing that it is possible to take control of one’s career and narrative.

Her third studio album, *Revenge*, released in 2024, further solidified her status as a formidable force in music.

With a blend of R&B, pop, and cinematic soul, the album served as a declaration of her independence and a response to those who doubted her.

The title was intentional, representing her desire to reclaim her power and prove her worth in an industry that often overlooks women.

Building a Legacy

As of 2025, Muni Long’s estimated net worth stands between three to four million dollars. While this may not compare to the fortunes of industry giants like Drake or Beyoncé, the key difference is that Muni owns her music and her brand.

Unlike many artists who find themselves trapped in unfavorable contracts, Muni Long has built a sustainable career on her terms.

Her success is not merely measured in dollars but in the disruption she has caused within the industry.

Muni Long is changing the narrative around Black women in music, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for ownership and creative control. She is a living testament to the idea that success does not require permission.

Conclusion: A New Era in R&B

Muni Long’s story is one of resilience, empowerment, and transformation. From her early days as Priscilla Renea to her emergence as a Grammy-winning artist, she has navigated the complexities of the music industry with grace and determination.

Her willingness to speak out against injustices and her commitment to owning her narrative have made her a trailblazer in R&B.

As she continues to release new music, mentor upcoming artists, and expand her brand, Muni Long is proving that the future of R&B is not just about hits but about authenticity and empowerment.

Her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of artists to take control of their careers and redefine what it means to be successful in the music industry.

In a world where artists are often silenced, Muni Long is a voice that will not be ignored. She is rewriting the playbook, proving that true artistry lies in being unapologetically oneself.

As we look to the future, one thing is clear: Muni Long is here to stay, and she’s ready to change the game.