Montreal-based singer-songwriter Mona Lissa Chanda has returned with a striking new single, “Professional Victim,” a vibrant and infectious anthem that serves as a powerful declaration of self-worth and the courage to establish healthy boundaries. Released on January 31, 2025, this captivating track offers a tantalizing glimpse into her highly anticipated first full-length album, Queen Of Games, slated for a spring arrival. With a sound that effortlessly marries the timeless sophistication of classic soul and jazz with the irresistible allure of pop hooks, Mona Lissa Chanda continues to solidify her position as a unique and compelling voice in the contemporary music landscape.
Inspired by iconic artists such as Amy Winehouse, Tracy Chapman, Melody Gardot, Sade, and Lake Street Dive, Mona Lissa Chanda crafts deeply personal “torch songs” that explore themes of self-discovery and the universal yearning for love and connection. While her lyrical narratives often delve into the complexities and darker facets of human nature, they are consistently infused with a sharp wit, undeniable charm, and a palpable sense of nostalgia. Ultimately, Mona Lissa embraces life in all its messy glory, approaching reality with the insightful perspective of a modern woman.
Mona Lissa’s rich and multifaceted background serves as a fertile ground for her artistic expression. Born in the northern Quebec town of Sept-Îles to immigrant parents – an East Indian engineer father and a German artist and homemaker mother who introduced her to the evocative sounds of jazz, blues, and Berlin Cabaret – she navigated a childhood immersed in French Canadian culture while simultaneously absorbing the cultural riches of Europe and Asia through her travels. This fascinating tapestry of influences is further enriched by her diverse academic pursuits, holding degrees in fine art and neurosciences, alongside formal training in vocal jazz and the nuanced art of Italian Bel Canto singing. A pivotal moment in her artistic journey occurred in the mid-2000s during her time in Chicago, where a visit to the legendary Chess Records studio and immersion in the city’s vibrant blues scene ignited her passion to become a singer-songwriter.
Her musical journey began to take form with the release of her debut EP, Tip Of My Tongue, in 2014. This haunting folk-pop collection, recorded in collaboration with Juno Award-winning sound engineer and producer Robert Heaney (known for his work with Cirque du Soleil and Patrick Watson), garnered critical acclaim, drawing comparisons to Sarah Brightman’s acclaimed album Dive. In 2017, she reunited with Heaney and Raphael Rosenwald (an early collaborator of The Dears and Arcade Fire) for her sophomore EP, Oracle. Throughout her discography, Mona Lissa’s lilting voice shines through, boasting a remarkable range reminiscent of her idols Blossom Dearie, Patsy Cline, and Sarah Vaughan. Over the past decade, she has graced the stages of renowned festivals such as Montreal International Jazz Festival and POP Montreal, captivating diverse audiences with her versatile and engaging performances.
Now, with the release of “Professional Victim,” Mona Lissa Chanda unveils a new chapter in her artistic evolution. This lead single from Queen Of Games is not for the faint of heart, but rather resonates deeply with those who possess a generous spirit and often find themselves giving selflessly to others. The song serves as a vital reminder to recognize when those boundaries have been crossed, when too much has been given for too long to the wrong individuals, and ultimately, to prioritize one’s own needs.
“Professional Victim” is a vibrant celebration of healthy boundary-setting, presented as the ultimate act of courage and self-love. Drawing from her own experiences with codependent relationships, as well as the poignant stories of those exploited by so-called “professional victims,” Mona Lissa penned the lyrics and melody with a raw and honest perspective. Her vocals on the track are a bold and unapologetic expression of her indignation at such manipulative dynamics. Musically, “‘Professional Victim'” is a triumph of collaboration, arranged, performed, and co-composed with Montreal-based songwriter-producer Paul Cargnello. His infectious guitar hooks inject an undeniable energy into the track, perfectly complementing the classic Motown rhythm that will have listeners instinctively moving.
Adding another layer to the narrative is the accompanying music video for “Professional Victim,” filmed on location in downtown Montreal, Quebec. Directed with a keen eye for both humor and relatability, the video depicts our heroine’s struggle to break free from a demanding and self-centered partner who consistently feigns injuries to elicit sympathy, favors, and control. The video culminates in a highly satisfying resolution, offering a cathartic release for anyone who has ever navigated such a dynamic.
The upcoming album, Queen Of Games, also produced in collaboration with the seasoned troubadour Paul Cargnello, delves further into Mona Lissa’s deep appreciation for blues-rock and classic soul/R&B, with a subtle nod to Americana influences. The result is a collection of songs that feel both timeless and fresh, evoking the sensation of discovering cherished hidden vinyl gems. Fans in Montreal will have the opportunity to celebrate the release of Queen Of Games at the official album launch party on Saturday, April 12th at Casa Del Popolo.
Beyond her captivating musical artistry, Mona Lissa Chanda possesses a brilliant scientific mind. Driven by her intertwined passions for music and science, she conducted research on the neurochemistry of music and the effects of sex, drugs, and rock n’ roll on the brain under the mentorship of Dr. Daniel J. Levitin, the New York Times best-selling author of This Is Your Brain On Music. Her contributions to this field were recently acknowledged by Dr. Levitin in his latest best-selling book, I Heard There Was A Secret Chord: Music As Medicine. This unique blend of artistic and scientific expertise further underscores the depth and complexity of Mona Lissa Chanda’s creative spirit.
“Professional Victim” stands as a powerful testament to Mona Lissa Chanda’s artistic growth and her ability to weave profound messages into irresistibly catchy melodies. Her strong and direct vocal delivery conveys a palpable sense of urgency, capturing the complex emotions that arise when breaking free from toxic relationships. While the lyrics draw from her own experiences and the shared struggles of others, the song ultimately transcends negativity, celebrating the bravery inherent in setting boundaries and reclaiming personal power.
The track radiates an energetic vibe, seamlessly blending the timeless essence of soul music with a contemporary edge. Paul Cargnello’s engaging guitar work adds an exciting dimension, transforming Chanda’s message of self-empowerment into a truly danceable experience. “Professional Victim” masterfully captures a unique blend of honesty and strength, offering a refreshing and empowering perspective on vulnerability. Mona Lissa Chanda is not just making music; she is delivering a powerful message wrapped in an undeniably captivating sound.
Mona Lissa Chanda’s latest opus, “Professional Victim,” is a masterful fusion of dimensional jazz, neo-soul, and Motown grooves, creating a compelling sonic experience that feels both nostalgic and strikingly modern. From the very first note, the track exudes an air of cinematic sophistication, with Chanda’s charismatic vocals guiding listeners through a narrative of emotional manipulation and the subsequent journey towards personal empowerment. The lush instrumentals, intricate yet smooth arrangement, and dynamic energy create a soundscape that feels both familiar and utterly fresh, like a cherished classic rediscovered for a new generation.
Lyrically, the song fearlessly navigates the treacherous terrain of toxic relationships, where one individual thrives by adopting the role of the perpetual victim, draining the emotional reserves of those around them. Chanda’s opening lines, “A textbook case, / You’re a soul that needs to be saved,” immediately introduce a character who has perfected the art of eliciting sympathy. The recurring declaration, “You’re a professional victim,” serves as both a stark confrontation and a moment of profound realization – an acknowledgment of a destructive pattern and a firm declaration of detachment. The poignant line, “I don’t wanna feel your pain,” encapsulates the pivotal moment of awakening, where the protagonist recognizes that empathy has morphed into unsustainable self-sacrifice. There is a delicate balance of sadness and burgeoning empowerment in these lyrics, as Chanda masterfully navigates the complexities of vulnerability and the crucial act of self-preservation.
Paul Cargnello’s musical arrangement is nothing short of flawless, seamlessly weaving together captivating guitar hooks, infectious percussive grooves, and a classic R&B rhythm that proves utterly irresistible. The interplay between Chanda’s confident lead vocals and the rich backing harmonies adds a compelling, almost gospel-like dimension, further amplifying the emotional weight of the lyrics. The instrumentation is rich and layered yet remarkably uncluttered, allowing Chanda’s distinctive voice to remain the undeniable centerpiece. Her phrasing is particularly striking, possessing a theatrical, almost conversational quality that makes the narrative feel deeply personal and immediate, as if she is recounting a profoundly felt experience in real time.
The accompanying music video elevates the song’s narrative with a charming, cinematic quality, cleverly positioning Chanda as both the protagonist and the insightful observer of her own story. Skillfully directed by Alex Pacifici and Gianni Giovanni Gallo of Collective Studios, the visual storytelling strikes a perfect balance between satire and relatable human experience. The vibrant downtown Montreal setting provides a sophisticated backdrop to the unfolding drama, while the dynamic interplay between Chanda and male lead Alex Sazonov is both expressive and engaging. The deliberate injection of humor into the visuals serves as a brilliant counterpoint to the song’s heavier themes, making it an engaging and thought-provoking watch while powerfully reinforcing the central message of reclaiming one’s autonomy.
Beyond its immediate musical appeal and captivating visuals, “Professional Victim” delves into profound psychological themes, including codependency, learned helplessness, and the crucial importance of emotional responsibility. The striking line, “You fooled me once, if you fool me again, I am to blame,” marks a significant moment of accountability for the protagonist, acknowledging that remaining trapped in a toxic cycle is ultimately a choice. In an era where discussions surrounding mental health and the establishment of healthy emotional boundaries are increasingly vital, Chanda’s song serves as both a cautionary tale and an empowering mantra for anyone who has ever found themselves ensnared in the emotional web of a manipulative individual.
As the compelling lead single from her forthcoming album, Queen of Games, “Professional Victim” sets an exceptionally high bar for what promises to be a deeply rewarding musical journey. The album is poised to delve even further into themes of self-discovery, emotional resilience, and the intricate interplay between love and power. With Mona Lissa Chanda’s signature blend of soulful storytelling and sophisticated musicality, Queen of Games is undoubtedly destined to be an essential listen for discerning fans of both classic and contemporary jazz-infused pop. Mona Lissa Chanda is not just an artist to hear; she is an artist to feel, to absorb, and to wholeheartedly celebrate. We have proudly added “‘Professional Victim'” to our New Music Spotlight playlist and our TIMELESS playlist, and we encourage you to explore the wider discography of this exceptional artist, including gems like Destiny and Nirvana Attained. Prepare to be captivated.
OFFICIAL LINKS: https://monalissamusic.com
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