Melanie Blatt, the celebrated singer from the iconic 90s girl group All Saints, has shared a touching birthday tribute to her daughter, Lilyella, who has just turned 27.
A Mother's Heartfelt Birthday Message
Taking to Instagram on Thursday, the hitmaker posted a stunning photograph of her daughter, who looked effortlessly stylish in a red long-sleeved crop top and a pair of dark blue jeans, accessorised with chic sunglasses.
Alongside the image, the proud mother penned a simple yet powerful message: 'Happy birthday my beautiful baby. I love you.' The brunette daughter bears a striking resemblance to her famous mother, a member of the group that achieved five UK number one singles.
Lilyella is Melanie's only child from her previous relationship with Stuart Zender, the 46-year-old former bassist for Jamiroquai. The couple's eight-year romance concluded in 2005, reportedly after Zender spent time working away in Los Angeles.
Lilyella's Evolving Style and Private Life
Over the years, Lilyella has been known for her dynamic and evolving personal style, often showcasing different looks on social media. Her past appearances have featured blonde and pink hair, and her posts have hinted at a fascination with vampire and gothic culture.
In recent years, however, she has chosen to step back from the spotlight. Lilyella now maintains a low profile, having stopped sharing personal photos online. Her social media feeds have transitioned to focus on her appreciation for art and photography instead.
Melanie's 'Beef' with the Spice Girls
In a recent appearance on Sunday Brunch, Melanie Blatt openly discussed the long-standing rivalry between All Saints and the Spice Girls, a topic explored in the BBC's new documentary, Girlbands Forever.
In the documentary, Melanie expressed her frustration that All Saints, who had worked for years to hone their craft, were eclipsed by the rapid, massive success of the 'manufactured' Spice Girls. When fans commented that she came across as 'bitter,' Melanie did not hold back.
'A lot of them are saying "you come across as bitter,"' she shared on the show, before pausing and announcing, 'I am. I am bitter. I'm bitter and I'm jealous.'
Despite these feelings, she clarified that she holds no animosity towards the individual members. She has a close friendship with Emma Bunton and knows Melanie C, whom she describes as 'amazing.' Her issue was primarily with the commercial concept of the group and its associated merchandise.
'We worked so hard, even being called a girlband it felt like a dirty word to us because we just wanted to be a band,' she explained. 'I'll have beef until I die with them. I will.'
All Saints, comprised of Melanie, Shaznay Lewis, and sisters Nicole and Natalie Appleton, were initially together until 2001, with several reunions since. They are best known for classic hits like 'Never Ever' and 'Black Coffee'.
