Monica The Great (Monica Gonzalez) is a first-generation Mexican-American rapper and songwriter who grew up in Rialto, California and now calls Denver home. Known for her powerful live performances – fans shout “La Reina! La Jefa!” (Queen! The boss!) when she takes the stage – Monica blends Latin rhythms, hip-hop, and bilingual lyrics. She first gained major attention with the breakup anthem “Delusional” in 2025 (written after a late-night heartbreak), which went viral on TikTok. Her story is one of perseverance: she turned personal struggles (including growing up around gang violence in the Inland Empire) into music, and has since signed to the UnitedMasters label and prepared an EP for early 2026. In short, Monica The Great’s inspiring journey—from church choir kid to music innovator—combines faith, cultural pride, and hustle.
Early Life and Background
Monica was born and raised in Rialto, California (part of the Inland Empire) to Mexican-American parents. She spent her youth in a tough neighborhood (“shootings every night”), but found solace in church choir and theater, where her love of music took root. Music was literally “born in church” for her – early on she recorded songs with friends even before rapping seriously. Seeking a fresh start, Monica moved to Denver around 2018. In Colorado she continued to develop as an artist and joined the LA Academy of Artists & Music Production (LAAMP) in 2023. There she worked under famed producer duo Stargate, and officially changed her stage name from “MTG” to Monica The Great, a title meant to honor a friend who had always seen her potential.
Breakthrough Hits and Career Highlights
Monica The Great’s career has accelerated rapidly in recent years. After releasing an independent album The Innerview under her early moniker, she started dropping single tracks that showcased her bilingual style. Her breakout single “Mala Vida” (2023) – a bilingual Latin-hip-hop song – became a regional sensation. Monica premiered “Mala Vida” to a sold-out crowd at the House of Blues in Anaheim, and the song’s fusion of Latin rhythms and rap led to radio play in California and Colorado. This track “changed [her] life,” she says, opening doors to bigger shows and attention.
- Champagne (2023) – Early single blending hip-hop with catchy hooks.
- Mala Vida (2023) – Bilingual Latin-rap hit; premiered live to sold-out crowds.
- Who Are You (2024) and Dulce Mentira (2024) – Emotive singles exploring identity and heartache.
- Delusional (2025) – Viral breakup anthem written after a tough day at work. An Instagram/TikTok clip of Monica singing it while in tears garnered hundreds of thousands of views, and the finished song ultimately got her signed.
By late 2025, “Delusional” had pushed Monica’s profile skyward. Her TikTok following exploded from about 3,000 to 33,000 in a matter of weeks. The buzz caught the attention of UnitedMasters, who slid into her DMs: “Hey Monica, big fan of your music. Can we talk?”. That message led to a meeting in Brooklyn and a record deal. The late summer of 2025 saw Monica head to New York, where she played her new tracks for the label and earned a contract. Soon after, she opened for hip-hop artist Amir Obe in New York City – a surprise double-win as UnitedMasters sent a contract offer the same night.
Musical Style and Influences
Monica The Great’s sound is as multifaceted as her background. She freely raps and sings in both English and Spanish, blending old-school West Coast hip-hop with Latin beats and even rock influences (she grew up in punk and metal scenes as well). She describes music as a sensory experience – she even sees colors when she hears music due to synesthesia, mixing sounds “like cooking” by layering rhythms and textures. Monica cites Frida Kahlo and other Latina creatives as inspirations, and her stage attire often pays homage to cultural motifs. Critics note her confident flow and storytelling: she grew from writing simple raps about personal drama into more profound, melodic tracks once she embraced her heritage at LAAMP.
Community Impact and Activism
Beyond music, Monica has built a reputation as an activist and mentor. She founded Spread Love 5ever, a volunteer initiative that delivers food and supplies to underserved communities in every city she tours. Monica frequently works with local programs (like Denver’s City Cares) to uplift others, especially women and younger Latinas looking for role models. In interviews she emphasizes giving back: “success should always be tied to giving back”. Colorado media likewise highlight her leadership: a CPR public radio profile calls her a “performance coach and community leader,” and notes how she brings “Latin flair” and pride to her music. Monica also mentors emerging artists in Denver’s scene and speaks openly about faith and resilience – she often performs wearing a rosary or sharing gospel-tinged messages, honoring the role of church in her upbringing.
Discography & Achievements
- The Innerview (Independent Album, as “MTG”) – Debut LP capturing Monica’s early style.
- Singles & EPs: Her latest releases include “Tamagotchi”, “Who Are You”, “Dulce Mentira”, and the universal breakup single “Delusional”. Apple Music lists “Delusional” (Sep 2025), “Tamagotchi” (2025), “Who Are You” (2024) and others as her catalog.
- Live Performances: Monica has headlined local festivals (e.g. Para Mi Gente in Denver) and shared stages with hip-hop stars. In 2025 she supported Amir Obe on tour and even performed overseas. (She’s traveled extensively in the U.S. and Europe, as noted by KUVO Jazz radio.)
- Media Recognition: Named one of Denver’s “Artists to Watch” for 2026 by Westword, Monica has been profiled in regional press for her viral success. Her story emphasizes personal authenticity – using music to channel her life experiences – which critics say makes her a genuine voice of her generation.
Conclusion and What’s Next
Monica The Great’s biography is still being written. Her journey – from a choir girl in Rialto to a Denver-based Latina rap star signed to a major label – underscores themes of faith, family, and perseverance. In early 2026 she plans to release a full EP of new songs (currently slated for February) and to expand her national presence. For fans and newcomers alike, Monica offers bold storytelling and uplifting energy. Stay tuned: you can hear her latest tracks on Spotify/Apple Music, and follow her on social media for updates. With her mix of “purpose, resilience, and artistry”, Monica The Great continues to motivate and empower, proving that true “greatness” comes from authenticity and community.