Melbourne rapper & R&B songwriter Jjay De Melo drowns

Melbourne indigenous rapper and R&B singer-songwriter Jjay De Melo has drowned – just days before he was to open for Tyga’s show at Festival Hall on Australia Day.

He had gone swimming on Tuesday with a friend at Bushrangers Bay Beach on the Mornington Peninsula when they both got into trouble at 5 pm.

De Melo, who began as a hip hop dancer, began making music in 2016, quickly rising up the stakes.

He released his debut EP Paper Planes early last year, and soon became a sought-after MC on tours by August Alsina, YG, Joyner Lucas and Joel Fletcher.

He had toured North America with Fletcher.

It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of one of our members of the YAY team, @JJayDeMelo. We are truly saddened that we have lost such an inspirational young person. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones at this very difficult time. pic.twitter.com/NVrC0YrdsG

— Youth Activating Youth (@YAY_Org) January 23, 2019

Today we’ve lost a shining light.
Your energy was contagious, you were the life of the party, full of love and happiness. One of a kind.
I am truly grateful for your friendship & the memories we shared touring the world together.
I love you bro. Forever ❤️🌹@JJayDeMelo pic.twitter.com/3PoRw5bZYQ

— Joel Fletcher (@Joel_Fletcher) January 23, 2019

@jjaydemelo you were one of the most energetic, positive and happy people I know.
Your music was amazing and you always made people around you smile.
I remember this photo like it was yesterday we’ll calling each Bad Boys on It’s The Ship.
R.I.P Mate … https://t.co/tDJ9Qi2tG9 pic.twitter.com/ciyZY6jNbV

— Luke Spags (@lukespags) January 23, 2019

He also worked as a mentor with Youth Activating Youth, which stated of his passing, “We are truly saddened that we have lost such an inspirational young man”.