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| The Exclusive Interview With Melena! |
| Growing up from her humble roots in her homeland of Havana, Cuba, Melena knew that percussion and performance was in her blood from a very early age. Years of intensive studies followed, including tutoring from world renowned percussionists such as Luis Conte and Papo Conga, whom had given Melena her first real taste of major stage performing. Since that time, Melena's reputation as an energetic and fiery percussionist has earned her gigs with such performers as Sting, Macy Gray, Julio Iglesias, and Barry White. Only good things still lie ahead for Melena, whom was very generous to give this great interview in the midst of touring. I hope you all will enjoy it! |
| Q: Melena, thank you so much for your time to join me for this interview! You are certainly in the middle of all kinds of projects right now between touring with Keplyn, doing percussion clinics, and working on your own solo CD. What is the progress right now of your first solo album? A: As you know, an album can take up quite a bit of time Although, I try to fit pushing forward the project into my work schedule, it's not easy. It's difficult to say how long it would take to complete. Q: As much as I love being a drummer, I secretly wish I could learn how to be a good percussionist as well! Was there a conscious effort by yourself to be a multi-percussionist or is it something you seemed to naturally gravitate towards? A: No, it wasn't a conscious choice. I started on drums and it was a gradual process moving onto being a percussionist. The more I studied the instrument, the deeper my interest became. Q: You certainly have some incredible credentials as a percussionist having studied under such renowed guys like Luis Conte, Miguel Diaz, and Jose Miguel Melendez. I know that percussion is something that you can't necessarily teach, because the student just has to have the feel for it, like you did,. But what kind of advice did these esteemed gentlemen have to help you find your way? A: I personally believe that each of them saw something special which made them believe in me and they told me I need to believe in myself, have confidence and never give up. I think that gave me the inspiration to really search for my spirit connection to the music. Q: Do you do much playing on the drum kit as well? A: Actually, my evolution from drums to percussion has not allowed me to presently have much contact with the drums. However, I would love to pick up a set again at some point, but for now, I have alot to keep me busy. Q: You have quite an impressive list of credits to your name such as gigs with Sting, Macy Gray, Tom Jones, and Julio Iglesias. Has there been any particular gig that stands out in your mind as being one that really helped shape your career or your playing? A: The person that comes to mind for me may not be on your prestigious list of mentioned individuals, although those gigs were enjoyable. However, I would have to say that the late Papo Conga was my first musical mentor. He himself was a percussionist/drummer and vocalist. Very talented guy and had a beautiful heart. I gained a lot of experience playing with him. Q: You are only the second master percussionist I have interviewed for my site here, the first being Airto Moreira. Have you ever had a chance to play alongside Airto? A: I've seen Airto perform live on several occasions, but I haven't had the opportunity to play with him yet. But, hopefully the future will allow us to cross paths. I think that would be fun!! Q: Do you have any other scheduled clinics or tours coming up following the tour with Keplyn? A: From time to time I do an occasional workshop in the L.A. area, however I try to select my work carefully so as to continue my studies and my current album project. Q: Melena, I want to thank you so much again for your time and I want to wish you all of the continued success possible! I want to wrap up here by asking you this: What one person in your life would you say has been instrumental in making you the person you are today? A: I have to say my "abuelita" (grandmother). She is the flower in my life. |
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