In Episode 132 of the R&B Money Podcast, hosts Tank and J. Valentine sit down with Grammy-winning artist Melanie Fiona to dive deep into her career, her growth as an artist, and the journey that has shaped her into one of the most respected voices in R&B. Known for hits like “It Kills Me” and “4AM,” Fiona reflects on the highs and lows of her career, while giving a candid glimpse into her life as an artist, mother, and wife.
The conversation kicks off with Fiona opening up about the balance between artistry and motherhood. She shares how the challenges of her personal life have shaped her music, giving her a greater sense of authenticity in her work. She’s unapologetic about her growth and the importance of staying true to herself. “It’s been a journey of self-discovery,” she says, as she emphasizes the need for artists to take their time and not rush through their creative process to meet industry pressures.
Fiona also reflects on her latest singles, “Say Yes” and “I Choose You,” both of which showcase her evolution as an artist. “Say Yes” is an intimate, live-recorded track that captures the vulnerability of embracing love, while “I Choose You” is a celebratory anthem about commitment and love. Both tracks are set to appear on her upcoming EP, Say Yes, slated for release in the new year. The EP explores themes of love, vulnerability, and empowerment, a continuation of the heartfelt, emotional storytelling that has defined Fiona’s career.
The hosts commend Fiona for her unwavering authenticity, as she reveals how her experiences with motherhood and her personal life have helped her grow into a more confident artist. She offers advice to up-and-coming musicians, stressing the importance of staying grounded and avoiding the pressures of the industry to conform to unrealistic expectations.
Alongside the conversation about her music, Fiona recounts pivotal moments in her career, including her breakthrough song “It Kills Me,” and her struggles to secure a record deal. She humorously recalls being stuck in Canada for months due to immigration issues but eventually finding her way to success, securing a work visa and a contract with SRC Records. Her resilience in the face of adversity has been a consistent theme throughout her career.
Throughout the episode, Fiona’s transparency shines through as she shares the highs and lows of her journey, the growth of her sound, the importance of remaining true to her identity and much more. It’s a powerful reminder of the enduring strength it takes to balance the demands of artistry and life while never compromising who you are as an individual.
