The Brazilian state of Bahia is home to some of the biggest names in Brazilian music, particularly Gilberto Gil and Caetano Veloso. A new voice from the state, singer-songwriter Melly, scored a Latin Grammy nomination with her debut album, “Amaríssima.” Melly has been performing in bars since she was 16. Born in a poor family with a dad who played in samba-reggae bands, Melly had to overcome a lot to pursue a career in pop music in Brazil, particularly as a Black, LGBTQ woman. Reporting from Bahia, Gisele Regatao has her story.
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