Apple Music names Mellissa as latest Up Next Ghana artist

The Up Next artist development programme was launched in 2017 with the goal of spotlighting and supporting emerging acts.

Mellissa, whose music explores a mélange of sounds that incorporate R&B and pop influences with Afro melodies, joins fellow rising stars like OliveTheBoy and Darkua, who have been named in the initiative in recent months. Notable Up Next alumni include Rema, Burna Boy, Mr Eazi and Tems.

“Sending massive love to Apple Music for choosing me as their Up Next artist in my beautiful homeland of Ghana,” Mellissa said.

As the latest Up Next act to be spotlighted in Ghana, Mellissa’s music, including her latest single ‘Me & U’, will be included on Apple Music’s Up Next playlist, curated by the digital streaming platform’s editors worldwide to showcase a diverse group of emerging artists, regardless of genre.

Meanwhile, ‘Me & U’, released independently, blends Latin, reggae, and R&B-soul elements, amplified by heartfelt lyrics. Mellissa, who cites global popstars like Alicia Keys, Rosalía and Rihanna as her core influences, said that her new record is “all about sharing the infectious, sexy vibes of Afro music with the world.”

Mellissa started creating her own music during the COVID-19 lockdown, leading to the release of her debut single ‘Limelight’ in 2021. She has also collaborated with West African alté vets like Amaarae, Ajebutter 22 and BOJ, contributing to their respective projects.