We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Mel Washington. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Mel below.

Mel, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Do you feel you or your work has ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized? If so, tell us the story and how/why it happened and if there are any interesting learnings or insights you took from the experience?

I grew up in Charleston, SC and loved music from as early as I could remember. There has always only ever been one issue. I’m a black man and people always assume that I create R&b, hip hop, soul, or gospel music. While I grew up around all of these types of music, my expression has always come out as Americana, roots, rock, country, folk, and other genres that simply aren’t considered “black”. I still fight this stigma to this day. I’m excepted to create art that is traditionally “black”, whether that means art created by black artists or consumed by black audiences. However, I don’t feel inclined to change my expression based on other peoples expectations. I want to introduce white audiences to black creatives that make music they enjoy and I want to introduce black audiences to styles of music that black people have always been a part of and even responsible for (Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Charley Pride). Also to create an awareness for creators of color, that there is space for us at EVERY table in the music space.

Mel, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

As a product of the south and of church, I realize that what I can provide to the general public is a very authentic musical experience. Whether we are in an intimate space, at a loud bar, at a music festival, in the studio, or in the songwriting room, I am committed to authenticity. Making people feel something that cuts them to their core. That’s the most inviting thing you can do to someone is to level with them.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I had every reason to give up on this dream. Roughly 10 years ago I moved to Nashville and ended up homeless. It seemed like even after years of fighting and showing up, I still couldn’t get my head above water. I couldn’t seem to get anything to stick or to catch on. It was the perfect reason to give up. But, I’m so glad I didn’t. I had to swallow some pride and do some jobs that weren’t glamorous, but it positioned me for where I am now.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

I think the most rewarding thing for me is being able to see or hear the feedback of the positive influence the music has on folks. Sometimes it’s from a note that someone sends that lets me know that a song got them through a break up or a death or a job loss. It’s watching people that would normally not sit next to each other be brought together through the power of music. Music is healing. And it breaks down walls. Walls between people. Walls within our hearts. It’s a powerful thing. And I’m humbled and honored to be able to be one that God has entrusted with these talents and gifts to be able to make music.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: melwashington
• Twitter: melwashington
• Youtube: melwashington

Image Credits
Dylan Dawkins