Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ernest Melton. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Ernest thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

In my sophomore year of high school, I realized I wanted to be a musician. At that time I knew virtually nothing about the professional aspect of it. I had played a few gigs by then, but I didn’t understand the nature of the “music scene” so they just seemed like ephemeral experiences. I wasn’t even sure what instrument I would specialize in at that time, but I simply knew I wanted to perform music. I didn’t know any full-time players personally, but the success stories of others were enough to encourage me

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m a saxophonist and recording artist. I started playing at age 10 and got my first gig at age 15. Subsequently, I left high school to focus on music. I spent this free time immersing myself in the Kansas City music scene. Specifically, those years consisted of countless hours of jam sessions, concerts, and conversations with the professionals of the local music community.

In regards to performing, there are two types of clients: a Bandleader/Artist and a Club Owner/Event Coordinator. The latter usually just want to help get people to their event or business and I just try to make my performances and compositions fun for myself and attractive to others. When I’m working with Bandleaders, Artists, or producers I try to be congruent with their style. With all clients, I prioritize punctuality and clarity on my part which (in many cases) sets me apart from others
In regards to recording, your clients the. listener. I try to assure that people hear my music and hopefully, someone likes it. What sets me apart from others in this respect is really up to the listener.

Naturally, I avoid being proud or prideful, but I’m very grateful I make my living doing something I enjoy. I’d like people to understand that I maintain a somewhat unlimited perception of what I do. I enjoy the universal/global concept of music and if you enjoy anything you hear from me don’t be afraid to reach out

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being creative is receiving a positive response from different types of people in regard to your work.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My creativity is driven by an incessant desire for musical knowledge and the challenge of creating a physical manifestation of it, via composing and/or performing.    

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meltonernest/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/musicbymelton
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ernestmelton4191

Image Credits
Lou Jones Daniel Hogans Jon Northington