With his latest single “Manifest,” Newark rapper Mel Drugz delivers one of his most personal records to date. In this Q&A, he opens up about the meaning behind the song, his creative process, the visual direction, and why this release marks an important moment in his journey as an artist.
HipHopExclusives: “Manifest” feels intentional, almost like a statement more than just a song. What were you trying to call into existence when you made this record?
Mel Drugz: Manifest is more of a love song. So the whole gist is basically me tryna manifest a situation I fucked up with back into my life.
HipHopExclusives: Let’s talk production. How did you know this was the right soundscape to match the message you were delivering?
Mel Drugz: It don’t really go that way with me. I use the beats to bring the message out of me. I don’t come up with a message then find a beat to fit it on. I pick the beats and let the thoughts flow out. They all end up lining up.
HipHopExclusives: Was “Manifest” written in one session, or did it come together over time as your mindset evolved?
Mel Drugz: I freestyle all my songs. So I freestyled the hook one night, then later that week finished the rest of the lyrics based off the hook. You could say it came together over time.
HipHopExclusives: The music video feels closely connected to the song. What was the vision behind the visual, and how close is it to where you were mentally when you recorded the track?
Mel Drugz: Extremely close actually. The treatment for the video was not my work, so they actually nailed it, 100%.
HipHopExclusives: Newark has a strong history in hip-hop. How does your city influence the tone or urgency of “Manifest”?
Mel Drugz: I wouldn’t say Newark had an influence on the song itself. But behind my overall career, it does. It’s a big part of why I even started. As far as how I create my music, I wouldn’t say Newark influences that.
HipHopExclusives: There’s a sense of pressure and self-belief throughout the record. What obstacles or doubts were you pushing against while creating it?
Mel Drugz: I was going through regular life shit at the time. You gon’ have your ups and downs, but we get over shit.
HipHopExclusives: The title “Manifest” suggests discipline, patience, and belief. How much of the song is about manifestation versus survival?
Mel Drugz: The whole song is pretty much about manifestation. Really manifesting a specific person or event.
HipHopExclusives: What do you want listeners to feel after watching the video for the first time?
Mel Drugz: I want the story of the song to be felt. That goes for every single song I drop. You’re going to feel what I’m talking about. That’s my main thing, not just with “Manifest.”
HipHopExclusives: Do you see “Manifest” as a turning point in your artistry?
Mel Drugz: I did. Especially when I compare it to other songs I made at the time. It’s 2026 right now—my manager been urging me to drop this since 2024.
HipHopExclusives: If someone hears “Manifest” as their first introduction to Mel Drugz, what do you hope they understand about you as an artist and where you’re headed next?
Mel Drugz: I hope they understand that I’m the rawest. I got a real story, born to be, and here to stay.
With “Manifest,” Mel Drugz delivers a record rooted in intention and honesty, offering listeners a clear look into his mindset and creative process. As he continues to release music on his own terms, one thing remains consistent: his focus on telling real stories and letting the music speak for itself.
“Manifest” is available now on all major streaming platforms. Stay connected with Mel Drugz as he continues to build momentum and define the next chapter of his career.
Follow Mel Drugz: https://www.instagram.com/1meldrugz
