On July 29, 2023, Lisette Melendez was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Baldhill Amphitheater during the Freestyle Fest 2023 event hosted by Fever Entertainment and Brian Rosenberg. We were fortunate enough to attend this unforgettable night filled with music, speeches, and emotional moments. From the moment she stepped on stage, it was clear that this was going to be a special event. Lisette spoke about her many years in the music industry and expressed gratitude for still being here after all these years. Her performance was a beautiful medley of her most beloved songs.
Lisette developed an interest in singing when she was just 12 years old. Her mother and aunt, who sang in church and community theatres, inspired her to pursue her dreams. Growing up in a dangerous inner-city neighborhood with four siblings, Lisette devoted most of her time to practicing her singing skills and listening to cassettes.
Lisette was inspired by Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam, a young Puerto Rican diva, and formed a boy/girl group while still in high school. This group eventually led her to producer Carlos Berrios, known for his work with Corina and Jasmin. After providing background vocals for Berrios, she sang the lead for the club hit “Noise” in 1988.
Following the success of her hit “Together Forever,” Lisette signed with Fever Records and released her debut album “A Day In My Life” in 1991. She then released “True To Life” with Fever Records/Columbia in 1993, which later reached double platinum status in Japan. In 1994, she won a Grammy for “Best New Artist” for the same album.
Lisette continued to release more albums, including “IMAGINATION” featuring backup vocals from freestyle divas Joei Mae and Sa-Fire. She also ventured into Spanish/Salsa music and released “Un Poco De Mi” under Sir George Records. Her upcoming Spanish record “Renunciare” is yet to be released.
Lisette Melendez’s Lifetime Achievement Award is a testament to her hard work and dedication in the music industry. Despite facing challenges and obstacles, she never gave up on her dream of becoming a singer. Her determination and passion for music have led her to success not only in freestyle but also in Spanish/Salsa music.