DJ Lady Chellez, born Michelle L. Melendez, passed away on Thursday, April 23, 2026, following a fatal car accident in New York City. She was 41 years old. Her sudden death has sent shockwaves through the hip-hop, radio, and DJ communities, where she was widely respected as a pioneering female voice in mixing and broadcasting.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Chellez discovered her passion for music early in life. From the age of 13, she began experimenting with vinyl records and developing her skills in beat matching and mixing. Those early experiences shaped her lifelong ambition of working in music and radio, and she quickly became known for her natural ear, technical ability, and deep love for hip-hop culture.
After graduating from Hunter College, Chellez began her professional career in broadcasting at Power 105.1 FM in 2003, initially working as a teleoperator before advancing to a board operator role. Her talent and dedication soon set her apart, allowing her to collaborate with some of the biggest names in hip-hop radio, including DJ Drama, DJ Clue, DJ Carl Blaze, and DJ Self.
Chellez eventually established herself as a respected DJ and producer in her own right. In 2007, she released her first mixtape, Latinos Stand Up, which highlighted Latino artists and showcased her commitment to uplifting diverse voices in music. She also collaborated with legendary DJ and rapper Tony Touch on several mixtape projects, further cementing her reputation within the industry.
By 2008, Chellez had joined Ed Lover’s morning show as a producer and board operator, expanding her influence in radio programming. Her growing popularity and technical expertise eventually earned her a late-night mix show on Power 105.1 FM, where she became known as “The Mixxtress.” Her sets were widely praised for their energy, precision, and ability to connect with listeners across different musical styles.
Tributes have poured in following news of her passing. Hip-hop producer Mr. Walt of Da Beatminerz shared an emotional message on social media, writing that Chellez was “one of the absolute kool ones… one of the kindest, sweetest people in the world,” reflecting the deep respect she earned from her peers.
Beyond her professional achievements, Chellez was remembered for her warmth, humility, and generosity. Colleagues and friends describe her as someone who supported others in the industry and helped create opportunities for emerging talent, particularly women in DJing and broadcasting.
At the time of her death, Chellez remained active in music and radio, continuing to share mixes and engage with fans through live sets and social media. Her presence in the New York music scene was still strong, and her influence continued to grow.
DJ Lady Chellez leaves behind a powerful legacy in hip-hop and radio broadcasting. Her journey from a young vinyl enthusiast in Brooklyn to a respected New York DJ and producer stands as a testament to her talent, perseverance, and passion for music. She will be deeply missed by family, friends, colleagues, and fans who were touched by her sound and spirit.