Who Was Messy Mya? The New Orleans Artist Who Beyoncé Featured on her Song "Formation"

In the vibrant, culturally rich streets of New Orleans, few voices stood out like that of Messy Mya. Born Anthony M. Barre on December 15, 1987, Barre would grow into a beloved and controversial figure whose unique blend of bounce music, raw comedy, and unapologetic street commentary made him a star both online and in his city. Though his life was tragically cut short, his influence continues to resonate — even reaching the highest levels of pop culture, including a posthumous feature in Beyoncé’s 2016 anthem “Formation.”

Messy Mya wasn’t just a performer — he was a cultural phenomenon. Known for his fluorescent hair, quick wit, and fearless personality, Barre rose to fame in the late 2000s through viral YouTube videos that showcased his talent for improv comedy, diss freestyles, and real-time interactions with the people of New Orleans. Whether he was cracking jokes at Lakeside Shopping Center or delivering sharp commentary on everyday life in the city, his presence was electric.

His signature catchphrase, “Now who gonna pop me?”, became an iconic line, symbolizing both his boldness and his comedic edge.

Barre's life was filled with both laughter and hardship. At just 13 years old, he experienced immense trauma when his mother was tragically shot and killed by her abusive boyfriend on September 26, 2001. Adding to the complex layers of his family history, his grandfather — Stan “Pampy” Barre, a well-known businessman — was later imprisoned for his role in a kickback scheme tied to New Orleans City Hall.

Despite these obstacles, Barre pursued his art with passion and resilience. As Messy Mya, he became a pillar of New Orleans’ bounce music scene and one of the early influencers who bridged the gap between music, comedy, and digital culture.

But on November 14, 2010, just as his star was rising, tragedy struck again. As he was leaving his girlfriend’s baby shower in New Orleans’ 7th Ward, Barre was shot multiple times and killed. He was only 22 years old.

In the aftermath of his murder, Jason Hamilton was arrested and confessed to the crime. However, three years later, new evidence proved that Hamilton was not at the scene, and he was released — leaving questions about the true perpetrator of Messy Mya’s murder still unanswered to this day.

Barre’s funeral was held at St. Peter Claver Catholic Church, where friends, fans, and family gathered to honor his memory.

Though Barre had passed away, his voice echoed louder than ever in 2016, when Beyoncé released her critically acclaimed single “Formation.” The track famously opens with Barre’s unmistakable voice saying:

“What happened at the New Wildins?”“Bitch, I’m back by popular demand.”

These audio clips were lifted directly from Barre’s viral YouTube videos — “A 27-Piece Huh?” and “Booking the Hoes from New Wildin.” The inclusion of his voice sparked renewed attention, but also controversy.

Barre’s estate filed a $20 million lawsuit against Beyoncé, seeking royalties and proper credit for the sample. While the lawsuit highlighted issues around posthumous rights and artistic recognition, it also shined a light on Barre’s cultural importance and how his raw, unfiltered artistry found its way into one of the most iconic songs of the decade.

More than a decade after his death, Messy Mya remains a legendary figure in New Orleans and among fans of bounce culture. He helped redefine how artists could use social media to build their brand and create direct connections with their communities. His bold personality, comedic genius, and fearless commentary made him a voice for the streets — a voice that continues to inspire, entertain, and provoke.

In many ways, Messy Mya represented the soul of New Orleans: loud, proud, and unapologetically real. Though his life was tragically short, his impact continues to be felt — from local bounce clubs to international stages.

Follow the legacy. Respect the name. Messy Mya, forever New Orleans.