More than two decades after their original hit, Brandy and Monica are once again in the spotlight. The R&B legends collaborated with Ariana Grande on a remix of “The Boy Is Mine,” which is now nominated for a Grammy. This new version, featured on Grande’s Eternal Sunshine album, has brought the artists together, rekindling their friendship and reigniting the magic of their iconic 1998 duet. Both singers reflect on the experience, sharing how it felt to reconnect and create something fresh while honoring the past. They also express their excitement about potentially earning another Grammy for a song that has stood the test of time.
The collaboration between Brandy, Monica, and Ariana Grande represents a significant moment in music history. Over 26 years after their initial hit, the R&B superstars have come together once more, this time with a pop icon, to reimagine a classic. The remix, nominated for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance at the 2025 Grammy Awards, showcases the enduring appeal of “The Boy Is Mine” across generations. For both Brandy and Monica, the experience was not just about music but also about reconnecting as friends and reflecting on their careers.
Monica describes the reunion as a blessing, noting that it allowed her and Brandy to catch up on life beyond just the song. “It gave us the opportunity to talk about everything,” she says. Brandy echoes this sentiment, adding that working with Grande transported them back to a pivotal time in their careers. The process was collaborative, with Grande actively involved in ensuring the new version felt both innovative and respectful to the original. “Ariana made sure her gratitude was felt, which meant a lot to me,” Monica explains. The result is a track that feels fresh yet nostalgic, perfectly blending the old with the new.
Both artists express immense gratitude for the recognition their work continues to receive. When the nominations were announced, Monica learned from her children, celebrating the moment with them. For Brandy, the nomination brings back memories of their first Grammy win in 1999. “To reignite the creation in a new way and still have it honored is such a blessing,” she reflects. Despite the excitement, both emphasize that being nominated is an honor in itself, especially given the lasting impact of their original song.
The success of the remix has sparked interest in potential future collaborations. Monica and Brandy are open to creating more music together, acknowledging the magic that happens when they team up. “Absolutely,” Monica declares, while Brandy adds, “Who knows what could be in store for us?” The possibility of another duet excites fans who have followed their careers since the late '90s. With a renewed sense of creativity and camaraderie, the future looks bright for these R&B icons.