Muni Long: The Evolution of a Songwriter to R&B Superstar

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. The Early Days: From Priscilla Renea to Muni Long
4. The Breakthrough: Viral Success and its Aftermath
5. Embracing Personal Stories in Music
6. The Role of Social Media in Modern Music
7. The Future: What Lies Ahead for Muni Long?
8. Conclusion: A Journey Yet to Be Fully Explored
9. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Muni Long, formerly known as Priscilla Renea, has successfully transitioned from a background songwriter to a celebrated solo artist.
• Her breakout track "Hrs and Hrs" became a viral sensation, subsequently leading her to win two Grammy Awards for Best R&B Performance.
• In March 2025, she was honored as the Rising Star at Billboard's Women in Music event, underscoring her prominent presence in the industry.

Introduction

How often can an artist break free from the shadows of obscurity and establish themselves as a household name? For Muni Long, formerly Priscilla Renea, this journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and reinvention. Raised in Gifford, Florida, Long's journey through the music industry has been anything but conventional. With her transformation from a struggling songwriter to an R&B star celebrated by industry crowds, she embodies the spirit of perseverance and artistic authenticity. In this article, we explore her creative evolution, her rise in the music world, the impact of social media, and her ongoing determination to carve out a unique space in the ever-changing landscape of modern music.

The Early Days: From Priscilla Renea to Muni Long

Muni Long’s initial foray into the music industry began with her Rapunzel-length creative arc. Born Priscilla Renea Hamilton, she penned her first song at the tender age of eight. By 21, she had secured a recording contract with Capitol Records. However, her debut album, Jukebox, released in 2009, failed to chart, which set the stage for what would be a significant pivot in her career.

The Transition to Songwriting

After realizing that her talents as a performer were not enough to sustain her, Long turned to songwriting, eventually garnering acclaim for her impactful contributions to songs for significant artists. Notable credits include Rihanna’s “California King Bed”, Kelly Clarkson’s “Love So Soft”, and Ariana Grande’s “Imagine”. This period of songwriting was critical for Long, allowing her to secure a steady income while deeply analyzing the music industry’s intricacies.

The Reevaluation: Rebranding as Muni Long

By 2019, after disillusionment with the music industry's machinations and the non-success of her second album, Coloured, Long felt the need for rebranding. Inspired by a mix of her aspirations and cultural references, she adopted the name Muni Long, a moniker that reflects a fresh identity. “When I heard the 2 Chainz lyric ‘hair long, money long’, that’s when it clicked,” she recalls.

The Breakthrough: Viral Success and its Aftermath

Long’s first significant breakthrough came in 2021 with the release of her EP Public Displays of Affection. The track “Hrs and Hrs” went viral on TikTok, capturing the zeitgeist and paving the way for her first No. 1 on Billboard's Hot R&B Songs chart. Social media platforms have become essential tools for artists today, and Long leveraged this fact to propel her to new heights.

Securing a Record Deal

The success of “Hrs and Hrs” attracted the attention of major record labels, ultimately leading her to sign with Def Jam Recordings through her own imprint, Muni Long Inc., a culmination of her previous experiences in the industry. This relationship represents a milestone, providing her with the creative freedom she craved.

Grammy Recognition

Long’s journey culminated in recognition at the Grammy Awards, where she received her first Grammy for Best R&B Performance in 2023. The heartfelt essence of her music reached a peak with her second Grammy win for “Made for Me (Live at BET)” in 2025, following which she made a notable statement during her acceptance speech: “Please stop calling me Priscilla… It’s Muni Long now!”

Embracing Personal Stories in Music

Muni Long has continuously emphasized the importance of authenticity in her music. As articulated by Def Jam CEO Tunji Balogun, “She’s real — there’s no facade with her.” This genuine connection with her audience resonates deeply and adds a layer of universality to her music.

Recent Works and Future Directions

Following her Grammy wins, Long released “Slow Grind,” a track she describes as “for an upcoming project—themed around songs to make love to.” This project reflects her evolving identity as an artist, showcasing her artistic maturity and willingness to dive deeper into her personal narrative.

The Role of Social Media in Modern Music

In today's music industry, social media serves as both a promotional tool and a barometer for public opinion. Long's rise can largely be attributed to her savvy usage of TikTok, where “Hrs and Hrs” solidified its status. Stories abound of songs growing through viral challenges and dance trends on platforms like TikTok, showcasing how the traditional music marketing model has shifted.

The Future: What Lies Ahead for Muni Long?

Long’s achievements place her at a pivotal juncture in her career. With two Grammy Awards under her belt and a growing fan base, one must wonder: What’s next for this rising star?

Continuous Evolution as an Artist

Long’s commitment to her craft suggests that her journey is far from over. She strives to continue evolving artistically while maintaining her roots and personal storytelling. Her upcoming album promises to reflect her growth, both professionally and personally, offering listeners a deeper understanding of who she is beyond the music.

A Voice for Future Generations

Muni Long stands as an inspiring example for aspiring artists, particularly among women and people of color in the music industry. Her story illustrates the power of reinvention and the importance of self-advocacy. She has voiced the challenges of navigating a predominantly white industry: “I’ve been the only Black person in the room writing all these pop songs for years.”

Conclusion: A Journey Yet to Be Fully Explored

Muni Long’s journey from a hopeful songwriter to an award-winning artist is a narrative that demonstrates incredible resilience. Each chapter of her story sheds light on the trials and triumphs faced by artists navigating the complexities of the music industry. As she continues to break barriers and redefine her sound, it’s evident that this rising star will be a powerful force for years to come.

FAQ

Who is Muni Long?

Muni Long is a singer, songwriter, and musician who gained fame for her viral hit "Hrs and Hrs." She was formerly known as Priscilla Renea.

What accolades has Muni Long received?

Muni Long won Grammy Awards for Best R&B Performance in 2023 and 2025, for her songs "Hrs and Hrs" and "Made for Me (Live at BET)," respectively.

What is her latest music focus?

Muni Long's latest single, "Slow Grind," is inspired by themes of romance and love, indicating a continued exploration of personal connections in her work.

How has social media impacted Muni Long's career?

Social media, particularly TikTok, played a crucial role in propelling Muni Long's career, facilitating the viral success of her breakout track "Hrs and Hrs."

What can fans expect from Muni Long in the future?

Fans can anticipate an upcoming project that continues to explore her identity as an artist, along with more intimate storytelling through her music.