Mello Buckzz, born Melanie Doyle, was a prominent 24-year-old drill rapper from Chicago, known for her impactful presence in the city’s music scene. She was a member of the “No Limit” faction of the NLMB gang. Mello gained attention in 2021 with her debut single “Damn Buckzz” and soon became recognized for her fierce lyrics and unique style. Her track “Boom Pt. 2” garnered significant streams, over 3.5 million on Spotify, cementing her as an emerging force in the rap scene.
Mello Buckzz began her music career in 2020, drawing inspiration from her surroundings and personal experiences. Her debut single, “Damn Buckzz,” released in 2021, marked the start of her journey into the drill music scene. The track’s success paved the way for her subsequent releases, including “Boom (Mouskatool)” in 2022, which featured Amari Blaze, Moni Da G, and Kashh Mir.
The song received critical acclaim, with Pitchfork labeling it a “must-hear” track. In 2023, she released “Boom Pt. 2” featuring Latto, further solidifying her presence in the industry. The track garnered over 3.5 million streams on Spotify and 9 million views on YouTube.
In addition to her music, Mello Buckzz made a notable appearance at the 2023 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, performing “Boom Pt. 2” alongside Latto. Her performance was met with enthusiasm, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Early Life and Background
Birth and Family
Mello Buckzz was born Melanie Doyle on April 9, 2001, in Chicago, Illinois. Raised on the East Side, she was deeply influenced by the city’s vibrant music scene and its challenges. Her real name, Melanie Doyle, was publicly acknowledged in various media outlets and social media posts.
Education
Details about Mello Buckzz’s formal education are limited. However, her early exposure to music through family and friends played a significant role in shaping her artistic journey. She began rapping in 2020, spending time in studios with her brothers and friends, which laid the foundation for her music career.
Career Beginnings and Rise to Prominence
Entry into Music
Mello Buckzz started her music career in 2020, drawing inspiration from her surroundings and personal experiences. Her debut single, “Damn Buckzz,” released in 2021, marked the beginning of her ascent in the drill rap scene. The track’s success led to collaborations with notable artists, including Latto, Amari Blaze, and Moni Da G.
Breakthrough Tracks
- “Boom Pt. 2”: Featuring Latto, this track garnered over 3.5 million streams on Spotify and 9 million views on YouTube.
- “Boom (Mouskatool)”: A collaboration with Amari Blaze, Kashh Mir, and Moni Da G, this song received critical acclaim and showcased her versatility as an artist.
Notable Performances
In 2023, Mello Buckzz performed at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival alongside Latto, further solidifying her presence in the music industry. Her performance was well-received, and she continued to build a dedicated fanbase across various platforms.
Personal Life and Relationships
Boyfriend
Mello Buckzz was in a relationship with Devonte Terrell Williamson, who was among the victims of the July 2, 2025, shooting. She shared heartfelt tributes to him on social media, describing their time together as “having so much fun in our private little life.” In her posts, she expressed deep sorrow and disbelief over his loss.
Best Friend
Taylor Walker, one of Mello Buckzz’s closest friends, was also killed in the shooting. Mello Buckzz honored her memory on social media, sharing photos and expressing her grief over the loss of both her boyfriend and best friend in a single night.
The Tragic Incident
Shooting Details
On the night of July 2, 2025, a drive-by shooting occurred outside Artis Restaurant and Lounge in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. The incident took place around 11 p.m. as attendees were leaving Mello Buckzz’s album release party for “HollyHOOD.” A dark-colored vehicle approached, and at least one person inside opened fire on the crowd before fleeing the scene.
Victims
Four individuals were killed, including two men and two women. The deceased were identified as Leon Andrew Henry, 25; Devonte Terrell Williamson, 23; and Taylor Walker, 26. At least 14 others were injured, with three in critical condition.
Aftermath
Mello Buckzz expressed her grief on social media, sharing emotional messages and personal memories of her lost loved ones. She described feeling overwhelmed and sought solace through prayer.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
As of 2025, Mello Buckzz’s estimated net worth is approximately $1 million. Her income primarily stems from music streaming platforms like Spotify and YouTube, where her tracks have garnered millions of streams. Additionally, her performances at major events such as Coachella and collaborations with artists like Latto and G Herbo have contributed to her financial success. She is known for her bold fashion choices and often shares glimpses of her lifestyle with her followers on social media.
Conclusion
Mello Buckzz’s journey from Chicago’s East Side to becoming a prominent figure in the drill music scene is a testament to her talent, resilience, and dedication. Despite facing personal challenges, she continues to captivate audiences with her authentic voice and dynamic performances. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists, demonstrating that with passion and perseverance, one can overcome obstacles and achieve success in the competitive world of music.
FAQs
What was Mello Buckzz’s real name?
Her real name was Melanie Doyle.
When was Mello Buckzz born?
She was born on April 9, 2001.
What genre of music did Mello Buckzz perform?
She was a drill rapper, a subgenre of hip hop originating from Chicago.
What was her debut single?
Her debut single was “Damn Buckzz,” released in 2021.
Who were some of her notable collaborators?
She collaborated with artists like Latto, Amari Blaze, Moni Da G, and G Herbo.
What was the name of her debut mixtape?
Her debut mixtape was titled “HollyHOOD,” released on July 3, 2025.
Where did the tragic shooting occur?
The shooting occurred outside Artis Restaurant and Lounge in Chicago’s River North neighborhood.
How many people were killed in the shooting?
Four people were killed, including Mello Buckzz’s boyfriend and best friend.
What was Mello Buckzz’s response to the tragedy?
She expressed her grief on social media, sharing tributes to her lost loved ones and seeking comfort through prayer.
