Grammy-winning R&B powerhouse Melanie Fiona joins us to discuss her triumphant return with the Say Yes EP, the life-changing power of affirmation, and how motherhood reshaped her artistry. From Caribbean roots to global stages, she shares industry wisdom and the secrets behind her timeless sound.
Episode summary
Two-time Grammy winner Melanie Fiona returns with her first EP in years, Say Yes – and in this intimate conversation, she reveals how motherhood, Caribbean roots, and unshakable authenticity fuel her artistry.
The Canadian R&B icon opens up about:
- Her musical rebirth: Why the Say Yes EP blends vintage soul with modern vulnerability
- The power of “divine yeses”: How saying yes to love, family, and creative risks transformed her life
- Motherhood’s lessons: “My children outshine my Grammys” – balancing career and family without compromise
- Toronto’s influence: From blasting Whitney Houston lullabies to shaping her genre-defying sound
- Industry wisdom: Why she emulates Sade’s playbook (“Quality over quantity always wins”)
Packed with live performance stories, dream collabs (Brandy fans, take note!), and hard-won truths about longevity in music, this episode is a masterclass in staying true to your voice.
🎶 Listen now to hear Melanie’s powerhouse vocals and even more powerful perspective.
Featured music
🎶 "Mona Lisa Smile" – Melanie’s throwback R&B vibe
🎶 "I Choose You" – Her reggae-infused love letter to Caribbean roots
🎶 "Say Yes" – The EP’s emotional anchor track
Key topics & timestamps
[00:03:09] – The Say Yes EP Philosophy
“Say yes to the life waiting for you—it’s on the other side of fear.”
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Why the EP’s title track mirrors her journey to love and family
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The difference between “divine yeses” and people-pleasing
[00:05:09] – Motherhood & Priorities
“My Grammys are beautiful, but my children are more beautiful.”
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Balancing creativity with parenting: “You can’t have it all at once, but you can have it all.”
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Why vulnerability is her superpower
[00:08:26] – Musical Roots & Canadian Pride
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Whitney Houston lullabies and Sam Cooke vinyl: her parents’ influence
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Toronto’s multicultural soundscape: “We listened to Bob Marley, Green Day, and Brandy—all in one day.”
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On Canada’s R&B resurgence: “We’re tired of being overlooked!”
[00:14:13] – Industry Lessons & Authenticity
“I rooted myself in being a great singer—that’s what lasts.”
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Why she resisted industry molds early on
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Sade’s legacy: “She taught us quality over quantity.”
[00:20:55] – Tour & New Music
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Fan favourites like Mona Lisa Smile and the reggae-infused I Choose You
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What to expect at her Toronto homecoming show: “The energy will be everything.”
[00:25:18] – Dream Collaborations
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Stevie Wonder, Brandy, and Leon Thomas on her wishlist
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The genius of Ryan Leslie: “I’d love to create a whole project with him.”
Impactful quotes
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On Courage: “You’re free to say yes once you’ve said the right no’s.”
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On Longevity: “I wanted to make music that stands the test of time—not just trends.”
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On Performing: *“On stage, I’m 110% me: singer, comedian, energy-giver.”*
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On Motherhood: “My art helps my kids see me as a woman, not just ‘Mom.’”
Connect with Melanie Fiona:
- Website: melaniefiona.com
- Listen to Say Yes: Here
- Follow on Instagram: @melaniefiona
- Tour Info: melaniefiona.com/sayyestour
📍 Highlight show:
Toronto — May 10th at Axis Club
Listen & subscribe: Stream this episode and more on Afropolitan Dialogues or wherever you get your podcasts.
