If you’re not hip to [Melii](https://www.instagram.com/melii/?hl=en), it’s time to wake the fuck up. At only 22 years old, the Dominican singer, songwriter, and rapper is a superstar in the making, fusing her Latin roots with her undeniable charm and ability to rap in both English and Spanish. But don’t get it twisted, she can sing her ass off too—with her standout voice an instant hit within the music industry.
Boasting 559K followers on Instagram alone, Melii keeps it all the way real in everything she does. Exuding both inner and outer beauty, the Harlem, New York native wears her heart on her sleeve, posting relatable memes covering the topics of mental health, relationships, and all things that come with life. Following the release of her debut project _Phases_ in March of last year, Melii wrapped an explosive opening slot on Meek Mill’s headlining tour, all while consistently releasing bangers for her growing fanbase.
Currently signed to Interscope, the recording artist recently unleashed the official music video for “Way Too Soft,” declaring she’s coming for these artists’ necks in true Melii form. Meanwhile, her collaboration with Smoove’L on “BDE” continues to be in rotation, a sexy, no-filter record that true Melii fans can appreciate.
Flaunt caught up with Melii at her video shoot in Los Angeles, for her record with 6lack titled “U Ain't Worth It.” Read below as we discuss how COVID-19 has impacted her career, the inspiration behind “Way Too Soft,” and her forthcoming album which she describes as “the female Scarface vibe.”
**What’s been up since the** [**last time we spoke?**](https://www.revolt.tv/2019/12/16/21024906/melii-music-interview) **At The NOVO in downtown Los Angeles.**
I’ve been great. I’ve been working and trying new things with my craft.
**How has COVID-19 impacted you and your career?**
Well, it's been one of the most positive things that’s happened. In the tragedy itself, I found light out of it. I started to appreciate life even more, see things in a different light. It did change me in a way of appreciating certain things and moving a certain way.
**What positives came out of quarantine for you?**
I got time to be by myself and understand myself. Every day, you learn new things. You change perspectives, but I took time to stick to myself and really think deep into me.
**You dropped “Way Too Soft” during this time, bring us back to when you recorded this record.**
This record was basically made for women empowerment. In the video, you can see that. Reminding yourself that sometimes you go way too soft, when you know who you are. Never get too comfortable because that's how people get comfortable with you.
**Why do you feel like you’ve been going too soft?**
When it comes to my music, I don't ever doubt my music. When I make music, I make it for the audience that I know I’m catering to. I’m using my own experiences. I fell back a little bit, but I took that time for myself. I didn't really fall back and do nothing, I had growth. Now I’m coming back full-force, not going soft on my craft.
**How was shooting the video with Des Gray?**
It was shot in Miami. Good weather too, we had rehearsal the day before. It was dope, we picked it up and did it.
**I see you serving looks, talk about your love for fashion.**
Fashion is a way of expressing yourself. Anything you do that caters to you, clothes really make a person pop out. My stylist, she’s dope. She likes to think outside the box, I like working with her. She understands what caters to my body, what looks dope.
**Favorite brands? I see you rocking the Fendi and Gucci.**
Oh no baby, no brands. I don't really see things in brands because there are things in brands that are ugly. I don't really dress in brands, I dress in what I like and what's cozy.
**You snapped on “BDE,” how did that collab with Smoove’L come about?**
Smoove’L is a labelmate, he’s under Interscope too. On top of that, he had the song “NEW APOLOS.” We ended up collaborating because he’s from New York too.
**I remember you told me “HML” with A Boogie, you don’t usually talk that crazy. You’re talking your shit here!**
I mean, I do. \[laughs\] There's a way of talking your shit. They’re 2 different things. “Hit My Line” would be calling, “BDE” is being firm and confident. Standing in your ego.
**How much do you miss performing?**
I miss touring, I miss performing all day. If I could, I’d stay on the road. Even though it’s stressful, it’s still the best experience. The people, my team, they’re the best to be with.
**Favorite city you’ve performed in?**
Mala Luna Festival in Texas was one of my good shows, and Dallas. What's that other spot I had the blue leggings with the blonde? It was a little town, a little city in Arizona. It was somewhere little but it was crazy busy, the lights were beautiful.
**What’s the crowd’s favorite Melii song?**
It’s between “See Me” and “HML,” they go crazy. When I perform, they like “High For U.” That’s when they go crazy because I’m really dancing.
**Talk about your new record with 6lack, “U Ain't Worth It.”**
“U Aint Worth It” is finding your strength and letting things go. Realizing your worth, realizing you’re worth it and the person you’re with isn’t worth it. It’s an ex anthem, and I’m known for ex anthems.
**Do your exes know they’re about them?**
No. \[laughs\] I sometimes take certain ideas from situations around me too, I’ve been opening my writing to that.
**What can we expect from your album? Heard it’s almost finished.**
We could expect a lot of diversity, I can dive into any type of genre of music. Getting more in tune with my fans and getting more personal. A few turn up songs, some Spanish on there. I was getting on that in Miami.
**Any features or sneak peaks?**
I mean, you’re here with 6lack right now. That’s a good one right?
