Melii

Melii, born in Harlem, New York, began her musical journey by posting music online. Her career gained significant momentum in 2017 with a viral rendition of Cardi B’s “Bodak Yellow.” This exposure led to a recording contract with Interscope in December 2017. Her debut project, “Phases,” was released in March 2019, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Prior to the release of “Phases,” Melii experienced a breakthrough when Rihanna shared Melii’s single “Icey” during a Fenty Beauty product preview in May 2018, significantly boosting her visibility. Throughout her career, Melii has consistently released music that reflects her personal experiences and cultural background. She has collaborated with artists such as Tory Lanez and A Boogie wit da Hoodie, further expanding her musical reach. Her work ethic includes regular touring, where she expresses a preference for being “on the road” despite the inherent stresses.

Her career continued to advance with key releases and collaborations. The official music video for “Way Too Soft” was released, a song that she described as being focused on women’s empowerment. She also collaborated with Smoove’L on the track “BDE,” which was noted for its “sexy, no-filter” approach and gained significant rotation. In a 2020 interview, Melii discussed how the COVID-19 pandemic provided her with an opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth, which subsequently influenced her music, allowing her to approach her craft with renewed focus. During the pandemic, she worked on her forthcoming album, which she characterized as having a “female Scarface vibe,” aiming for diversity across genres and more personal engagement with her fanbase, incorporating both English and Spanish tracks.

Melii’s artistic expression also includes a strong connection to her Dominican heritage, evident in her bilingual rapping and singing. She often incorporates Spanish lyrics into her songs, notably in tracks like “La Envidia Mata.” Her ability to fluidly switch between languages and musical styles, from aggressive rap to vulnerable singing, highlights her broad artistic range. She has gained recognition for her “ex anthems,” such as “U Ain’t Worth It” (featuring 6lack), which focuses on self-worth and moving on from relationships. Melii has performed at various venues, including the Mala Luna Festival in Texas, and has engaged with her fanbase through her music and social media, maintaining an authentic connection with her audience, which she refers to as the “Melii Mob.”