Melissa Viviane Jefferson, professionally known as Lizzo, is an American singer, rapper, and flutist renowned for her empowering themes of body positivity, self-love, and inclusivity. Born on April 27, 1988, in Detroit, Michigan, Lizzo has become a global sensation with her vibrant mix of hip-hop, R&B, and pop, establishing herself as one of the most influential artists of her generation.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Melissa Viviane Jefferson |
| Date of Birth | April 27, 1988 |
| Place of Birth | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Partner | Myke Wright (boyfriend) |
| Children | None publicly known |
| Occupations | Singer, Rapper, Flutist, Songwriter, Actress |
| Labels | Nice Life Recording Company, Atlantic Records |
| Net Worth | Approximately $10 million (as of 2025) |
Early Life and Education
Lizzo was born in Detroit and moved with her family to Houston, Texas, at the age of ten. Growing up in a church environment, she was deeply influenced by gospel music as well as artists like Stevie Wonder and Elton John. Inspired by a Destiny’s Child performance in fifth grade, she began writing music early on.
Lizzo briefly studied classical flute at the University of Houston but left to pursue a music career. She later relocated to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where she immersed herself in the local indie music scene and crafted her unique artistic style.
Career
Lizzo’s music career began in Minneapolis, where she released two independent albums: Lizzobangers (2013) and Big Grrrl Small World (2015).
In 2016, she released her major-label debut EP Coconut Oil, which helped raise her profile. Her major breakthrough came with the 2019 album Cuz I Love You, which peaked at number four on the US Billboard 200 and featured popular tracks like “Juice” and “Tempo” (featuring Missy Elliott).
The deluxe edition included her 2017 single “Truth Hurts,” which went viral and eventually topped the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the longest-running solo number-one hit by a female rapper.
Other notable singles include “Good as Hell” (2016) and “Pink” (2023), the latter featured on the Barbie movie soundtrack.
Her 2022 hit “About Damn Time” earned her the Record of the Year award at the 65th Grammy Awards, which she dedicated to her late mentor, Prince.
Lizzo has also ventured into acting with roles in films like Hustlers (2019), voice work in UglyDolls (2019), and starred in her Emmy-winning reality show Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls (2022). Additionally, she was the subject of the 2022 documentary Love, Lizzo.
Personal Life
Lizzo has openly shared her transformative weight loss journey that began in 2024, describing it as an “intentional weight release” focused on improving her health rather than meeting societal beauty standards.
By early 2025, she had lost about 60 pounds, reduced her body fat by 16%, and lowered her BMI by 10.5 points.
She attributes her success to a balanced diet rich in protein and vegetables, cutting down on processed sugars, and a fitness routine that includes Pilates, walking, and weight training.
Lizzo emphasizes that her goal has been to feel stronger, more energetic, and at peace with her body-not simply to be thin.
Regarding her romantic life, Lizzo is currently in a relationship with Myke Wright, who is a comedian, musician, actor, and businessman.
Lizzo is a vocal advocate for body positivity, self-acceptance, and LGBTQ+ rights. She openly identifies as queer and embraces her identity through her music and public appearances.
Discography
- Lizzobangers (2013)
- Big Grrrl Small World (2015)
- Coconut Oil (EP, 2016)
- Cuz I Love You (2019)
- Special (2022)
Awards and Nominations
- Three Grammy Awards, including Best Urban Contemporary Album (Cuz I Love You), Best Pop Solo Performance (“Truth Hurts”), and Best Traditional R&B Performance (“Jerome”)
- Record of the Year at the 65th Grammy Awards for “About Damn Time”
- Billboard Music Award
- BET Award
- Two Soul Train Music Awards
- Emmy Award for Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls
Lizzo’s infectious music, empowering messages, and dynamic performances have made her a defining voice of the 2010s and 2020s, inspiring millions around the world.
