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

Hi Jeff , thanks for joining us today. Let’s jump back to the first dollar you earned as a creative? What can you share with us about how it happened?

So, I believe this was back in high school when I played the musical “you’re a good man Charlie Brown” and got paid to play the percussion book. It helped me to realize that my skill that I was working on had a real world value. It was motivating in the moment to realize that there was a path to becoming a musician and actually getting paid to do what I love. I think my motivation to practice got a lot stronger and I loved playing even when no one was around. I still feel the same way but it is definitely harder to practice the older I’ve gotten. The practice really does lead to more artistically fulfilling performances so I’m glad I front loaded my musical life with a lot of practice time.

Jeff , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I started into the world of music with a passion to become a music teacher. This led me to Sinclair Community College where I met many early influencers on the course of my musical career. After Sinclair I moved to Athens, OH to attend Ohio University for my undergraduate degree in Music Education. After my time in Athens I moved back to Cincinnati to pursue a masters degree in jazz studies from the University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music. Not long after graduation I began working for Willis Music and still continue to work for them to this day. This was a really great place for me to land because I still get to work with tremendous music educators but I am able to still perform regularly outside of work. Willis Music has connected me to both the educational world and the music business industry on a very high level. I’ve learned a lot from some of the largest companies in the music industry including Yamaha, Conn-Selmer, D’addario, Fender, Etc… I’ve been able to be involved with manufacturing decisions and details with musical instrument designs as well as training on various topics concerning the state of the current music business climate.

All of this information has led to a better understanding of how to position my creative musical projects to be successful as well. This includes brand endorsements with drum, cymbal and stick companies as well as featured videos being shared through their social media outlets. An understanding of business in the music sector has helped me to better understand communication in regards to booking, PR, marketing, and general best practices.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

I think going to shows that are put on by local groups and supporting local music stores can make waves in your own community. Become a fan of something right in your own backyard. Create strong relationships with creative people that have a passion for experiences and you are bound to have a better and more fulfilling life!

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

I wish I understood the value of marketing and publicity sooner. It’s good to get your product in front of eyes and ears that are looking for what you have to offer. There’s no shame in having someone behind the scenes to help push that along. It will help to add value to what you do!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.uscommatoday.com
• Instagram: @therealjeffdrums

Image Credits
Jeff Mellott