Manon Bannerman, stage name Manon, is quickly becoming a household name, making waves as the first Black artist signed to a Korean/American label.
Born on June 26, 2002, in Zurich, Switzerland, to a Swiss-Italian mother and Ghanaian father, Manon’s unique background and undeniable talent have set her on a path to global stardom.
Manon first captivated audiences as a member of the international girl group KATSEYE, a collective of diverse talents formed through the 2023 survival show The Debut: Dream Academy.
With members from the United States, South Korea, and the Philippines, KATSEYE is not your typical K-pop band—they’re a global phenomenon blending K-pop influences with a universal appeal.
But Manon’s journey to the spotlight didn’t start on stage.
Before becoming a pop sensation, she was a popular social media influencer, amassing a large following through her viral photos and videos. Her online presence caught the eye of a casting director, leading her to train at HYBE and Geffen, two powerhouses in the music industry.
Manon’s talents go far beyond her dazzling looks and magnetic stage presence. She’s a gifted singer and songwriter who began crafting her own music at just five years old.
Her artistic abilities don’t stop there—Manon is also an accomplished painter, a skill she showcased in the Netflix documentary Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE, which premiered on August 21, 2024.
The documentary has sparked a surge of interest in Manon and her group, providing a behind-the-scenes look at their journey to becoming one of the most exciting new acts in the music industry.
KATSEYE’s members have described their bond as sisterly, a connection that shines through in their performances and off-stage interactions.
“We all live together. All six of us are going through this very unique journey that no one else really can relate to, so that gives us this special bond,” Manon shared with Teen Vogue.
The release of Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE has not been without controversy. The docuseries sparked mixed reactions, particularly around the interactions between Manon and another contestant, Adéla, a Slovak trainee.
Some fans have rallied around Manon, believing she was unfairly treated, but despite the drama, Manon’s focus remains on her music and her fans.
As Manon continues to rise, she’s not just breaking barriers—she’s setting new standards. We will definitely keeping an eye on this fast-rising talented Black female entertainer.
