The NSFW meaning behind YNW Melly’s name and the big names the rapper worked with including Kanye West

YMW Melly, otherwise known as Jamell Maurice Demons, is currently on trial for the double homicide of fellow rappers YNW Sakchaser (born ​​Anthony D'Andre Williams) and YNW Juvy (born Christopher Thomas Jr) at the 17th Judicial Circuit in and for Broward County, Florida. Melly has pleaded “not guilty” to the charges, while his legal counsel David A. Howard stated that there was no motive for Demons to murder his friends, and that the state's case is "riddled" with reasonable doubt.

It is alleged that Melly conspired with YNW Bortlen (born Cortlen Malik Henry) to stage the murders and make it appear as a drive-by shooting. The victims were driven to the hospital by Henry, but they later died from their injuries. Melly turned himself in on February 13, 2019.

Melly's trial was initially scheduled for March 7, 2022, but it was delayed multiple times. On July 6, 2022, it was announced that Melly would no longer face the death penalty if convicted. However, this decision was later overruled by an appellate judge on November 9, 2022, reinstating the possibility of capital punishment. Melly's legal team attempted to appeal this decision to the Supreme Court of Florida, but their attempt was unsuccessful.

It’s unfortunately not the first time the prominent rapper, who made his name through creating music and sharing it through Soundcloud (and in effect becoming part of the “Soundcloud Rap” scene), has found himself in trouble with the law. In 2017, he faced probation while releasing "Murder on My Mind," which was later used against him. 

He also had encounters with the law in 2018, including charges for possession of a weapon by a convicted felon and possession of marijuana. Despite these setbacks, Melly continued to pursue his music career and released his first album-length mixtape, "I Am You," in August 2018.

What does YNW Melly mean?

While “Melly” stems from a nickname he received from his full name, Jamell, the YNW has very serious not safe for work connotations. One the one hand, the acronym at times has been suggested as “Young New Wave,” symbolising the collective age of a hip-hop collective that included Demons, Anthony "YNW Sakchaser" Williams, Christopher "YNW Juvy" Thomas Jr., and Cortlen "YNW Bortlen" Henry.

However, the not safe for work meaning of the name is also “Young N***a World,” again a nod to the hip-hop collective that he belonged to - which included the two people Demons is alleged to have murdered, leading to his ongoing trial in Florida.

Who has YMW Melly worked with?

A prodigal talent who made his name on Soundcloud, akin to the way that Tyler The Creator and Odd Future (or to give the collective it’s full name, Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All), a number of hip-hop’s finest in recent years have all co-signed on works either created by YMW Melly, or have asked him to appear on collaborative efforts. 

Kanye West

YNW Melly's collaboration with Kanye West on the song "Mixed Personalities" was a significant milestone in his career. The track was featured on Melly's album "We All Shine" released in 2019. The song gained widespread attention for its unique blend of Melly's melodic style and Kanye West's distinct sound. "Mixed Personalities" received positive reviews and further boosted Melly's popularity.

Lil Uzi Vert 

YNW Melly and Lil Uzi Vert joined forces on the track "Pull Up." Released in 2018, the song showcases their individual rap styles, with Melly's melodic flow blending well with Lil Uzi Vert's energetic delivery. The collaboration was well-received by fans of both artists, with many praising their chemistry on the track.

Juice WRLD 

YNW Melly collaborated with the late rapper Juice WRLD on the remix of Melly's hit song "Suicidal." The remix was released in 2020, shortly after Juice WRLD's passing. The collaboration brought together two artists known for their emotionally charged lyrics and melodic rap styles. The remix served as a tribute to Juice WRLD and showcased the musical synergy between the two artists.

Young Thug 

YNW Melly teamed up with Young Thug on the track "Caprisun Fun." The song was released in 2018 and highlighted their unique vocal styles. Melly's melodic delivery complemented Young Thug's distinctive rap style, creating an infectious and catchy tune. The collaboration was well-received by fans, further expanding Melly's reach within the music industry.