As she continues to rise alongside the next-gen of African artists, Mellissa talks Rihanna stanning, finding catharsis through music and more.  

Mellissa’s music has always sounded expensive. This may seem an overly simplistic denotation but her lavish melodies and luxurious vocals shine bright like a diamond chandelier. On ‘Me & U’, the Ghanaian artist’s latest single, it’s a flamenco guitar and sugary Afrobeats rhythm that reek of such riches. Hoping to empower people to find their most confident selves, the track fuses a range of sounds that make up her self-coined ‘afro-sexy’ vibe – spearheaded by the singer-songwriter’s angelic voice.  

 

Growing up, Mellissa was always surrounded by music. The sounds of her mother’s restaurant next door would pulsate through the walls, and eventually, she found underground Ghanaian gems and mainstream R&B cuts to indulge in. After completing a film degree, the Wizkid-approved artist longed to test her creativity across different mediums, eventually taking the plunge into a career as a popstar. 

 

‘Me & U’ is a track for the good and the bad girls; it’s for anyone looking to reclaim their sexiness as a feeling rather than a physical attribute. Produced by Mont Jake, who’s worked closely with Greentea Peng, the single places Mellissa as the main character, pursuing a love interest secretly. Sensual visuals courtesy of TSE Studios and TUNDECUTS only illuminate this feeling further. 

 

As she continues to rise alongside the next-gen of African artists, here, Mellissa talks Rihanna stanning, making music cathartically and more.  

First song you ever made? 
“Bubble World” featuring my sister, Moliy. It never got recorded and is probably my worst example of songwriting, but the melodies were fire. We made that while we were doing chores, playing with soapy water as kids.
First time you fell in love with music?
Music holds a special place in my heart. I always performed at my high-school talent show and it was cathartic for me, but when I realised the impact it had on those who received it, I knew I was bound to it forever.
First CD or record you owned?
Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ and Sade’s ‘Diamond Life’. I brought them at the same time.
First time you realised you wanted to be an artist?
I’ve wanted to be an artist as far back as I remember, but if I had to pinpoint a moment, it would be the first time I organised a talent show at home to flex my vocal abilities.
First gig you went to? 
Trey Songs in 2011, in Ghana.
First time you faced an obstacle in your career? 
I once fell in love with the wrong guy and it took a toll on my music. My songs felt bitter until I learnt to release that resentment.
First instrument you owned? 
A piano when I was 14. I’m still learning.
First time you felt like giving up?
2021 ended on a harsh note for me in many aspects. But after that, a flood of the best opportunities and experiences came my way.
First time you felt starstruck? 
I haven’t experienced it yet. Rihanna might be the only one capable of having that kind of effect on me.
First time you ticked off a bucket list goal?
Graduating from film school was probably the first ‘big’ goal I ticked off.

Listen to 'Me & U' below: