August 19, 2014

Mela Machinko

Hov Said It Best

When Jay-Z rapped “been to many places, but I’m Brooklyn’s own” he was perfectly describing Mela Machinko, who has traveled the world but is distinctly a daughter of the famed borough.

Machinko is best known for her work with Pharoahe Monch; from songwriting to touring with the legendary Emcee, she has honed her craft as an first class performer in the studio and onstage. She has also been featured with such notable artists as Talib Kweli, Joe Budden and Jean Grae. She was featured on the 9th Wonder album “The Wonder Years” with a song called “Now I’m Being Cool” which was also penned by Machinko.

Stepping out on her own, Machinko has returned to her Brooklyn roots. She has crafted an album using lyrics, cadences and quotes from the reigning king of hip hop and Marcy project’s prodigal son, Jay-Z. The project, entitled “Hov Said It Best,” is presented in the form of a game show where we are treated to a Hov- inspired ‘This Is Your Life’ episode.

Mela released the first look from the project, “What You Want Me To Do (I’m Sorry),” to critical acclaim. Along with the visual directed by The Last American B-Boy, it became a fan favorite. She recently released the second look “Get That Cash & Run” also directed by L.A.B. and produced by Preservation of Mos Def fame.
After years of backing legends, it’s finally time for Mela to step out on her own and show what industry insiders have know for years- she is simply, the best.