In this episode of The Underground Lounge, Lou Will and Spank are joined by an undisputed cultural icon — Melyssa Ford. Known to many as the original video vixen, Melyssa breaks down her evolution from being one of the most recognizable faces in hip-hop videos to becoming a respected media voice and podcast host.

Melyssa reflects on the early days of her career, from modeling in Toronto to working with legends like Jay-Z, Usher, and Jadakiss, and reveals how she made the leap from music videos to becoming one of the main faces of BET. She shares untold stories from legendary sets, including Big Pimpin’ and Knock Yourself Out, and gives insight into what it meant to carry the weight of being “the blueprint” for a whole era of women in entertainment.

The conversation turns personal as Melyssa opens up about winning a Gracie Award, battling imposter syndrome, and why she started her own podcast, Hot and Bothered, to create space for honest conversations about women’s health, identity, and aging with power. She also talks about advocating for Black women in media, learning to stand in her truth, and not letting the noise distract from her purpose.

Of course, the episode keeps it fun and unpredictable with wild stories, laughs, and a spicy round of “F**K IT BUCKET” questions including what to do when you get horny in public. (Yes, she answered.)

From career pivots to cultural impact, this episode is a masterclass in longevity, reinvention, and confidence. Melyssa Ford is more than the blueprint — she’s the upgrade.