Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Melissa Hernandez. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Melissa, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.
My journey towards a career in the music industry has been profoundly shaped by the unwavering commitment, integrity, and perseverance of my father, who emigrated from El Salvador to the United States in pursuit of a better life. His determination exemplifies resilience and sacrifice, qualities that have deeply influenced my aspirations.
From a young age, my father introduced me to music, teaching me to play various instruments and exposing me to diverse genres. His guidance ignited a passion within me, while his emphasis on honesty, responsibility, and respect laid the foundation for my character.
The passing of my father was a significant moment that taught me the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. His legacy continues to inspire me, driving me to honor his memory by pursuing my dreams in the music industry.
Since the age of 20, I have been on a journey of self-exploration, empowered by various internships and programs. For instance, during an internship at a radio station, I discovered my talent for creative problem-solving, assisting others, and teaching students about music editing and promotion.
Additionally, my involvement in marketing and events, along with volunteering and interning at WHPC 90.3 FM, deepened my understanding of the music industry. Membership in the Grammy U Mentorship program and the Recording Academy further shaped my professional development.
Currently, I am enrolled in the New York University (NYU) x Rolling Stone program, where I am learning industry practices and basic skills needed to produce news stories across various mediums. Additionally, I am eagerly anticipating attending the upcoming Grammy events and the Matrix Awards, leveraging these opportunities to further my career and make a positive impact.
With a commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity in the media landscape, I aim to amplify underrepresented voices and advocate for meaningful change. Next year in fall , I plan to enroll in a master’s program in the music industry, continuing my journey towards a fulfilling career path.
I am grateful for the inspirations, people, and experiences that have shaped my journey thus far, and I look forward to the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead in the music industry.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Hi everyone !
My name is Melissa Hernandez , and I’m excited to share my journey and passion with you. From the age of 20, I’ve been on a dynamic quest of self-discovery, driven by a series of internships, programs, and opportunities that have profoundly shaped my trajectory in the music industry.
One pivotal moment occurred during an internship at a radio station, where I discovered my talent for creative problem-solving, assisting others, and mentoring students in music editing and promotion. This immersive experience ignited a fervent passion within me, propelling me deeper into the realms of music and media.
Participating in the Billboard x New York University program in 2021 was transformative. Through Latin Music Week, I engaged in live discussions, workshops, showcases, and networking events. These experiences not only illuminated my strengths and weaknesses but also broadened my knowledge and skill set, equipping me with indispensable insights crucial for my career aspirations.
Furthermore, my active involvement in marketing, event planning, and internships at WHPC 90.3 FM provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the intricate workings of the music industry. Additionally, being a member of esteemed programs such as the Grammy U Mentorship program and the Recording Academy has played a pivotal role in shaping my professional development, providing me with countless opportunities for growth and networking within the industry.
Currently, I’m enrolled in the prestigious New York University (NYU) x Rolling Stone program, where I’m refining industry practices and mastering essential skills for producing news stories across various mediums. Anticipation for upcoming Grammy events and the Matrix Awards fills me with excitement as I eagerly look forward to leveraging these opportunities to propel my career and effect positive change.
In addition, I’m thrilled to announce the upcoming release of my debut podcast, “Three’s Company Chat,” on Instagram in May. This marks an exciting new chapter in my creative journey. Moreover, I’m on track to become the first in my family to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Professional Communications next year in May, a milestone I’m immensely proud of. Additionally, I have plans to pursue a master’s degree in the music industry.
What sets me apart is not just my dedication to excellence, but also my unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity within the media landscape. I am deeply passionate about amplifying underrepresented voices and advocating for meaningful change, aiming to leave a lasting impact beyond mere success in the industry.
To potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that my work is driven by passion, integrity, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. Whether through my podcasts, events, or collaborations, I aim to inspire, educate, and entertain while making a lasting impact on the world of music and media. Thank you for joining me on this remarkable journey!
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
Society can really help artists, creatives, and the whole creative scene by giving them more chances to show what they can do. This means setting up events, exhibitions, and places where artists can meet and share their work with others. It’s all about building a lively and supportive community where artists feel encouraged and appreciated.
Also, it’s super important for society to understand how valuable artists are and give them the support they need to do their thing. This could mean investing in art classes in schools to help young talent grow, offering grants and money for artists to fund their projects, and making spaces where they can display their art. Plus, just by going to art shows, concerts, and events, buying artwork, and talking about artists’ work with others, we can really make a difference.
Another big part is encouraging people to be themselves and embrace their own creativity. Society should celebrate all kinds of art and artists from different backgrounds. By making sure everyone feels included and respected, we can create a really awesome environment for creativity to thrive. So, let’s keep pushing for more opportunities, not be afraid to try new things, and get involved in all sorts of creative stuff like concerts, events, and more!
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
Absolutely, my creative journey in the music industry is driven by a clear mission: to become a journalist, artist manager, and make a positive impact in the field.
As a journalist, I aim to tell stories that resonate with people, shedding light on the diverse voices and experiences within the music world. Whether it’s through articles, interviews, or podcasts, I want to inform and inspire others, sharing the passion and excitement that music brings.
In my role as an artist manager, my goal is to support and guide talented musicians, helping them navigate the complexities of the industry and achieve their dreams. From booking gigs to marketing their music, I want to be their ally every step of the way, ensuring they have the tools and resources they need to succeed.
Overall, my mission is to contribute to a thriving and inclusive music industry where creativity can flourish. I want to use my skills and passion to uplift artists, amplify their voices, and create opportunities for them to share their art with the world. It’s about making a meaningful difference and leaving a lasting impact in the music community.
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Image Credits
Charles R. Moss