Monica’s Sophomore Album, ‘The Boy Is Mine,’ Turns 15

Monica's sophomore album, 'The Boy Is Mine,' celebrates its 15-year anniversary this week. Released on July 14, 1998, the singer's effort was replete with symbolism of her ascent into womanhood.

She proved her staying power when 'The Boy Is Mine' spawned three No. 1 hits including 'The First Night,' 'Angel of Mine' and the mega smash duet with singer Brandy, 'The Boy Is Mine.'

Starting out as a precocious teen vocalist at the age of 14 years old, Monica released her debut album, 'Miss Thang,' to rave reviews in 1995. Yet the singer didn’t fully arrive until her sophomore release at age 18.

'The Boy Is Mine' featured production from heavy-hitter producers such as Dallas Austin, Jermaine Dupri and Rodney Jerkins.

Donning a sheer navy blue and aqua top with dark blue jeans on the LP cover, her hair gently pulled up, Monica's style was reminiscent of teenage girls around the world. This made her lyrics easily relatable for young girls.

"I want to get down but not the first night," she sang, alluding to not giving in on the first date.

Although still a teen, Monica sang like a woman, consider 'Misty Blue' or 'Street Symphony.'

The video for one of the album tracks, 'Angel of Mine,' featured R&B crooner Tyrese -- he joyfully played Monica's angel. Two more videos were also produced to help market the album including 'My First Night' and 'The Boy Is Mine,' which featured hot 'Soul Food' actor Mekhi Phifer.

Before Monica and Brandy teamed up for the single 'The Boy Is Mine,' the music industry had never seen a duet done like that before. Two successful female R&B stars joined forces and made history. The single dwelled at the top of the charts for weeks.

Both teen stars won a Grammy for the song. “I never expected to win a Grammy so early in my career,” Monica once admitted during an interview.

Although they were vying for the attention of the same guy in the video, reports indicated that the onscreen quarrel spilled over offscreen. Apparently, real life beef was imminent. For years afterwards, both singers admitted that they didn’t speak to each other. However, Monica and Brandy reunited in 2012, for another duet 'All Belongs to Me.'

'The Boy is Mine' successfully set the tone for Monica to have a solid career, one in which other burgeoning R&B singers look to for inspiration.

Watch Monica's 'Angel of Mine' Video

Watch Monica & Brandy's 'The Boy Is Mine' Video

Watch Monica's 'My First Night' Video