Melanie Martinez
Biography
Melanie Adele Martinez (born April 28, 1995) is an American singer, songwriter, and filmmaker. Born in Astoria, Queens, and raised in Baldwin, New York, Martinez rose to prominence in 2012 after appearing on the American television talent show The Voice. Following her time on the show, she signed with Atlantic Records and released her debut single "Dollhouse" and the corresponding EP of the same name in 2014.
Career Beginnings and The Voice
In 2012, Martinez auditioned for the third season of the reality television show The Voice. For her audition, she performed a distinctive version of Britney Spears's "Toxic," which prompted three of the four coaches to turn their chairs. She chose Adam Levine as her coach and ultimately reached the top six of the competition before being eliminated.
Cry Baby
Martinez's debut studio album, "Cry Baby," was released on August 14, 2015. The record is a concept album that follows the story of its titular character, a fantasy version of Martinez herself. The album features a dark, whimsical pop sound and explores themes of childhood and difficult adult situations. It was a commercial success, debuting at number six on the Billboard 200 chart and eventually achieving double-platinum certification from the RIAA. Every song on the album was eventually accompanied by a music video.
Notable Singles from Cry Baby:
- Pity Party
- Soap
- Sippy Cup
K-12
Released on September 6, 2019, "K-12" is Martinez's second studio album and is accompanied by a full-length feature film of the same name, which she wrote and directed. The album continues the story of the "Cry Baby" character as she navigates a sinister boarding school. "K-12" tackles themes of social issues and the struggles of adolescence. It debuted at number three on the Billboard 200 chart.
Portals
Martinez's third studio album, "Portals," was released on March 31, 2023. This album marks a significant evolution in her artistry, moving away from the "Cry Baby" persona and introducing a new, otherworldly creature. The album explores themes of death, rebirth, and immortality, presented as a continuous loop. "Portals" debuted at number two on the Billboard 200, her highest-charting album to date.