Joanna Jones’ delivery injects a haunting feeling that makes the lyrics about friendship and desire feel more like a pact than a party. 3. The Viral Evolution
If you spent any time on TikTok in 2018, you likely heard a version of "Wannabe" that didn't sound like the bubblegum pop of the '90s. It was slower, moodier, and oddly hypnotic. That track was Why Mona's "Wannabe" , a cover that managed to achieve the rare feat of going viral alongside cultural juggernauts like "Old Town Road".
Why Mona’s "Wannabe" works because it respects the original's message of self-empowerment and friendship while reimagining it for a generation that prefers their pop with a side of "sleek and sexy" gloom. It’s a masterclass in how to take a classic and make it feel entirely new. Why Mona Wannabe
Why Mona isn't just a random cover band; it’s a powerhouse duo. brought the theatrical precision of Broadway (performing in Hamilton eight times a week), while Unlike Pluto brought the prolific energy of an artist with over 200 solo releases. When they met by chance in a Hollywood studio in 2015, they blended old-soul influences like Lana Del Rey and Billie Holiday with modern, sleek production. 2. "Less Spice," More Soul
Creating an alluring, almost noir-like atmosphere. Joanna Jones’ delivery injects a haunting feeling that
A lowered-pitch edit for those who want to lean even further into the moody aesthetic. The Verdict
It became a staple for dance challenges and "animation memes". It was slower, moodier, and oddly hypnotic
But why does this specific cover still resonate years later?