Mississippi Expat: Melvin Myles
"As I continue on my path, I carry with me the spirit of the Mississippi Delta, a constant reminder of where I've come from and the boundless possibilities of where music can take us."
What does it mean to call Mississippi home? Why do people choose to leave or live in this weird, wonderful, and sometimes infuriating place? Melvin Myles grew up in Clarksdale, Mississippi, surrounded by gospel and blues music. In 2013, he moved to Atlanta to pursue a career in music. There he became a member of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church and through his participation in the Worship and Arts Ministry, he met Rabbi Micah Lapidus at an interfaith Shabbat service. Together, they formed the duo Lapidus & Myles—their music seeks to “bring people together in a spirit of love, respect, peace, and justice.” Though Melvin considers the Mississippi Delta to be his foundational home, “[s]ignificant strides in social justice, equality, and community support systems would be essential,” before he would consider moving back. Below, Melvin tells us how his home state has influenced his career and sense of purpose.
Where are you from?
I am from Clarksdale, MS.
When did you move to Atlanta and why did you move there?
I moved to Atlanta in August of 2013. I moved to Atlanta because I was not satisfied living in Mississippi, and New York was just too expensive. I am a Vocal Artist, and I am not cut out to be a starving artist, so I settled on moving to Atlanta where I can afford to live. Although I sometimes still desire to live in New York City, I do feel at home in Atlanta.
What does “home” mean to you? How does Mississippi fit into that definition?
To me home means…comfort, peace, no pretense, and safety. Mississippi is where I was born and raised. I am appreciative for my time in Mississippi; it is my foundation. Although I decided to leave, it is still a part of me; it is who I am. My musical identity and artistry is because of how living in the Mississippi Delta and being surrounded by gospel and blues (even though secular music was not allowed in our home) endowed me with the gifts that I carry now. So, yes, Mississippi is and will always be my home of foundation.
What do you miss most about Mississippi?
Mississippi has some of the best food in the world that I have tasted; I’m not saying that the food in Georgia is bad, but I do believe Mississippi food is much better.
Every time I came to Ebenezer, especially after I heard Pastor (now Senator) Warnock preach, I felt more and more like I was home.
How have you cultivated community in Atlanta? Do you still feel rooted to Mississippi?
As soon as I arrived in Atlanta, I started looking for a church home. I attended a few services at a few different churches; some I felt okay there, others not so much. On this one Sunday, I was intending to go to a church called Beulah Missionary Baptist Church but I woke up late and starting rushing to get dressed to try to make it on time (because I used to hate being late for church). Once I got on the highway traffic was a little crazy, so I came to realize that I am not going to get there on time, so why don’t I go to another church near me. At that time I was coming up to the Auburn Ave exit, so I thought, oh maybe I’ll check out Dr. King’s church, Ebenezer. So I got to the church and as soon as I stepped in the door everyone was so nice and welcoming…I started getting a good feeling. I had not felt this way about any of the other churches that I had visited. I enjoyed the service, although the Pastor was not there that Sunday, I enjoyed the services enough to want to come back so I could hear the Pastor preach.
Every time I came to Ebenezer, especially after I heard Pastor (now Senator) Warnock preach, I felt more and more like I was home. I joined after going for a month and started cultivating community in the Worship and the Arts Ministry, and that is really where my career in Music started to blossom.
The Temple is a Historic Synagogue in Atlanta, GA that has close ties with Ebenezer, and every MLK birthday the Temple hosts an MLK Shabbat service where our two music ministries come together at the Temple to sing, and Pastor Warnock delivers the message. Once some of the choir leaders heard me sing, I was invited to lead a song that Rabbi Micah wrote called “Praying With Our Feet,” and leading that song led to other invitations to sing, and a great and growing musical partnership with Rabbi Micah Lapidus.
What’s the weirdest question or assumption you’ve encountered about Mississippi (or about you as a Mississippian) by someone who’s never been there?
Mississippi is filled with amazing music and talent, and some of the people that I have encountered on my journey automatically assume that I know certain famous songs that are staples in the Black culture, just because I am Black and from Mississippi. I always remind them that I grew up in a Black religious home where the only music allowed was gospel, and learning to navigate the wider world of secular music as an adult has been an interesting journey.
Somehow, when I am learning a song that I am told that I should know, my lack of knowledge of secular music and the artist who sings it grants me the ability to sing the song the way I feel and understand the song.
I appreciate my parents bringing me up the way they did because that experience shaped not just my musical tastes but also my views on culture, identity, and spirituality. The transition from a gospel-only environment to one where all genres of music are available lead to a broadening of musical appreciation and understanding. Somehow, when I am learning a song that I am told that I should know, my lack of knowledge of secular music and the artist who sings it grants me the ability to sing the song the way I feel and understand the song. I am not a fan of imitating the original artist.
How has being from Mississippi affected your identity and your life’s path?
The Mississippi Delta is known for its rich cultural heritage and as the birthplace of the blues; I have a profound appreciation for the power of music to express the complexities of life, struggle, joy, and the human condition. The musical landscape of the Mississippi Delta has been integral to developing my artistic voice, teaching me the importance of authenticity and emotional honesty in my singing. Mississippi's history, marked by hardship, resilience, and the fight for civil rights, has also played a crucial role in shaping my worldview and the messages I choose to convey through my music. It has instilled in me a sense of responsibility to tell the stories of my people, to honor our past while also shining a light on our hopes and dreams for the future.
In essence, being from Mississippi has not only affected my identity and my music; it has given me a purpose. It has taught me that music can be a bridge between worlds, a healer of wounds, and a catalyst for change.
The sense of community and kinship I've experienced here has taught me the value of connection and support, influencing my approach to collaboration and my desire to uplift others through my art. The challenges faced by Mississippi, from economic hardships to social issues, have motivated me to use whatever platform I can, to advocate for change and to give voice to those who are often unheard. In essence, being from Mississippi has not only affected my identity and my music; it has given me a purpose. It has taught me that music can be a bridge between worlds, a healer of wounds, and a catalyst for change. As I continue on my path, I carry with me the spirit of the Mississippi Delta, a constant reminder of where I've come from and the boundless possibilities of where music can take us.
What is something that you’ve come to understand about Mississippi by living elsewhere?
Stepping outside of Mississippi and experiencing life in different places has offered me a broader perspective and a deeper understanding of my home state. One of the most profound realizations I've had is the unique sense of community and interconnectedness that exists in Mississippi. While living in multiple different states, I noticed that the strong bonds of neighborhood and family, which are so prevalent back home, are not always as pronounced in other places. In Mississippi, there's a palpable sense of belonging and mutual support that's fostered through shared experiences, traditions, and history.
In Mississippi, there's a palpable sense of belonging and mutual support that's fostered through shared experiences, traditions, and history.
Another insight gained from living outside of Mississippi is the recognition of our rich cultural legacy, particularly in music and the arts. Although as a child I was sheltered from secular music, as an adult, it is still easy to take for granted the profound influence Mississippi has had on American music, from the blues to rock 'n' roll, when you're surrounded by it every day. I have come to appreciate how this musical heritage has not only shaped my own artistic path but has also left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of the nation and the world. That is why I encourage everyone to support The Delta Blues Museum; I was recently able to visit the museum the last time I was in Clarksdale, and it encapsulates the very rich history and the feeling of community that you get from living not only in the Delta but throughout the state.
Have you ever thought about moving back? What would need to happen in order for you to move back to Mississippi?
I have not had a thought about moving back to Mississippi. For me to contemplate a move back to Mississippi, several key developments and conditions would need to have been in place for a few years that reflect a blend of personal fulfillment and communal progress. The state needs to become a vibrant, ongoing cultural renaissance that celebrates and elevates Mississippi's rich musical heritage, arts, and literature. This renaissance would need to be inclusive, promoting diversity and the modern expressions of creativity that resonate with my artistic sensibilities and values. Significant strides in social justice, equality, and community support systems would be essential. As someone who is passionate about advocating for change and uplifting communities, seeing tangible progress in addressing systemic issues and fostering a more inclusive, equitable society in Mississippi would be a critical factor.
And the presence of robust economic opportunities, particularly in the creative industries, would be a deciding factor. The development of infrastructure and support for artists, musicians, and creative professionals to thrive professionally and financially within the state would be crucial. A sense of community that aligns with my values and where I can contribute meaningfully would be extremely important. Finding a community that values dialogue, diversity, and collective growth, where I can feel connected and engaged, would be pivotal. Improvements in quality of life, including access to healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability, would also be significant. A lifestyle that balances the beauty and tranquility of Mississippi's natural landscapes with access to modern amenities and a healthy, vibrant community life would be ideal.
The decision to move back would not be taken lightly and would depend on a complex interplay of factors that align with my aspirations for growth, contribution, and living in a place that reflects my values and where I can make a meaningful impact.
Ultimately, a scenario where both my personal and professional aspirations could be fully realized in Mississippi would be necessary. This means having the space and resources to pursue my artistic endeavors, contribute to the community, and live in a way that feels authentic and fulfilling. The decision to move back would not be taken lightly and would depend on a complex interplay of factors that align with my aspirations for growth, contribution, and living in a place that reflects my values and where I can make a meaningful impact.
What do you wish the rest of the country understood about Mississippi?
Not only do I wish the rest of the country understood this, but also Mississippi residents: Mississippi has the potential for significant social and economic change. The state is at a crossroads, with the power to redefine its future through investment in education, healthcare, and economic development. Recognizing this potential is essential for supporting and empowering Mississippi to achieve its full promise. I wish the rest of the country could see Mississippi not just for its challenges but for its strengths, culture, and potential. Understanding and appreciating this complexity can lead to more meaningful support, collaboration, and progress, helping Mississippi to thrive while enriching the national narrative.
Do you have a favorite Mississippi writer, artist, or musician who you think everyone needs to know about?
As an emerging vocal artist who is from Mississippi, of course I think everyone needs to know about my music and artistry.
If you had one billion dollars to invest in Mississippi, how would you spend your money?
If I had one billion dollars, I would transform my hometown into a creative arts education and production hub offering substantial economic benefits and positioning the city as a leader in the cultural and creative industries. By investing thoughtfully and collaboratively, the billion-dollar investment could catalyze longterm economic stability, job creation, and cultural enrichment for my hometown of Clarksdale, MS and its residents.
What or who do you want to shamelessly promote? (It can absolutely be a project you’re working on, or something you are involved in.)
Creative Arts Empowerment Network, a nonprofit organization that I am deeply passionate about, is an organization dedicated to empowering individuals through the creative arts, promoting self-expression, healing, and social change.
Donations to the Creative Arts Empowerment Network help fund workshops, community events, and programs that harness the transformative power of the arts to uplift and inspire. By contributing, you are not only supporting the arts but are also fostering a community where peace, love, social justice, and equality are celebrated and encouraged.
We invite you to join us in this mission by making a donation. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant difference in our ability to reach more individuals and create a lasting impact. Please consider supporting the Creative Arts Empowerment Network today and help us continue to use creativity as a force for positive change in the world. Through CAEN, my Singer/Songwriter Duo collaboration with Rabbi Micah Lapidus, Lapidus & Myles, is producing our second music project and getting ready for tour in the fall. I also welcome gospel, jazz, and musical theater collaborations with other musicians and artists, visit www.melvinkmyles.com to start the conversation.