Hello, I’m Melbert, and I’m here to share my artistic journey with you. I hail from the picturesque twin island federation of St. Kitts-Nevis in the Caribbean, where I was born into a musical family. My father strummed the guitar, my mother and sisters sang, and my brother and I found our rhythm with drums and bass guitar. Music was not just a hobby; it was a way of life. At 15, I took the stage in church, marking the beginning of my journey as a musician.
Getting Started:
My artistic career kicked off when I joined a cover band. This experience opened doors for me to explore and refine my skills across various musical genres. It was a stepping stone that laid the foundation for what would come.
Artistic Style:
Describing my musical style is like capturing the essence of the Caribbean breeze. My sound is a fusion of island roots and world beats, with a touch of smooth jazz—music that reflects the vibrant energy of my home.
Favorite Project:
Among the various musical endeavors, one project holds a special place in my heart – my debut single, “Strengthen Your Faith,” released in 2021. This project allowed me to see my vision come to life, a testament to the dedication I poured into it from inception to completion.
Local Collaborations:
Recently, I had the opportunity to tour with Relive the Music, a tribute show celebrating the 50s and 60s. I also contributed to studio recordings for local artists and have exciting festivals lined up. Collaborations with fellow artists not only enrich my own experience but also open new doors for exposure.
Community Engagement:
Engaging with the local community is a vital aspect of my artistic journey. Open Mic Grooves and performances in local churches provide a platform to connect with my audience. Participating in local events, exhibitions, and initiatives further strengthens my ties to the community.
Challenges and Growth:
Balancing a 9-5 job and pursuing my passion posed its challenges. Time became a precious commodity, especially with a family to care for. Overcoming these hurdles required perseverance and a commitment to both family and craft. Additionally, gaining recognition as a newcomer in Canada proved challenging, but I embraced collaboration and networking in the music industry as key solutions.
Future Goals:
Looking ahead, my short-term goal is to work on my second single, collaborating with musicians from both St. Kitts-Nevis and British Columbia. In the long term, I aspire to continue evolving my sound and making a meaningful impact on the music scene.
Advice for Aspiring Artists:
To fellow aspiring artists in my community, I offer a simple yet powerful piece of advice—build your network and embrace collaboration. Our community is teeming with talent, and together, we can elevate our music and share it with the world.
