Siyah Wellman (Siya)
Biography
Michele Andrea Sherman, professionally known as Siya, is an American rapper, songwriter, actress, and television personality whose career has expanded visibility for Black lesbian artists in hip-hop. Raised in Brooklyn, New York, she developed her lyrical style in the city's underground rap scene before earning national recognition through independently released projects and collaborations. Her music combines autobiographical storytelling with themes of resilience, identity, ambition, and perseverance.
Siya gained widespread recognition through releases including SIYAvsSIYA, Commitment, 383 – For Roosevelt, and the major-label EP Mixed Emotions. She later reached a broader audience as a principal cast member on the Oxygen reality series Sisterhood of Hip Hop, becoming one of the few openly lesbian rappers featured prominently on a mainstream television series centered on hip-hop culture. She has collaborated with artists across hip-hop and R&B while expanding her career into television and film.
In addition to music, Siya has pursued acting with appearances in television and film, including Empire and The First Noelle. Across music, television, and film, she has remained committed to authenticity while advocating for greater visibility and inclusion for LGBTQ+ artists within the entertainment industry.
BQW Impact
Siya has helped broaden the visibility of Black lesbian women in hip-hop by building a successful career while remaining open about her identity. At a time when few LGBTQ+ artists were represented within mainstream rap, her presence challenged long-standing assumptions about sexuality in the genre and demonstrated that authenticity could coexist with commercial success.
Through music, television, and public visibility, Siya has contributed to a more inclusive landscape for Black queer artists. Her career continues to encourage emerging musicians to pursue their creative work without compromising their identities.
Notable Works
SIYAvsSIYA (2016)
Debut studio album showcasing Siya's lyrical storytelling and establishing her as a leading independent voice in contemporary hip-hop.
Commitment (2017)
EP exploring relationships, perseverance, and self-reflection while highlighting Siya's growth as a songwriter and performer.
383 – For Roosevelt (2017)
Autobiographical EP inspired by the Brooklyn housing development where Siya was raised, reflecting on identity, community, and personal growth.
Sisterhood of Hip Hop (2014 - 2015)
Oxygen series documenting the careers of women in hip-hop, introducing Siya to a national audience as one of its principal cast members.
Mixed Emotions (2023)
Six-track EP released through Hillman Grad Records and Def Jam Recordings, marking Siya's first major-label project and a new chapter in her recording career.
Learn More
Explore Siya's official website featuring music releases, videos, merchandise, tour updates, and current projects.
Learn more about Siya's music career, television appearances, acting roles, and collaborations.
Follow Siya for updates on new music, performances, acting projects, and community engagement.
Listen to Siya's albums, EPs, singles, and featured collaborations through her YouTube Music catalog.