Meet Melissa May | Singer, Songwriter & Technology Innovator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa May and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melissa, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
What makes me happy is having peace of mind, because it allows my creativity to flow. Life can get really hectic, and that stress can block the creative process. I focus on staying balanced mentally, physically, and spiritually so I can show up fully in my work. Creativity is everything to me, it fulfills the soul and fills the heart. Without it, who are we? What’s our purpose? I was born to create, and by maintaining my peace of mind, I can always honor that part of myself.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What I’m most proud of in my art is finding my authentic voice through storytelling. For a while, I was writing songs based on negative experiences in my life, which I think a lot of songwriters do, but those experiences were really unhealthy for my mental well being. It wasn’t until I decided to be unapologetically myself, to love out loud, and to do some deep soul searching that my stories became truly real. It wasn’t easy at all (it took a lot of therapy) but I learned to see those challenges as lessons, shaping who I am and helping me adjust my surroundings and the people I keep close.

As for what excites me, I’m looking forward to the day I release my first album and show the world how unapologetically Melissa May embraces herself, her experiences, and the journey that shaped her.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The real question is, where wouldn’t I take them if I wanted them to truly feel what it’s like to be a New Yorker? For breakfast, I’d hit up any good bodega, bonus points if they have a cat as the manager, and get a classic bacon, egg, and cheese on a roll with coffee. That’s comfort and authenticity right there. I’m from The Bronx, and some of the best food I’ve ever had comes from there.

For lunch, I’d take them to one of my favorites, Sabrosura. It’s the best Spanish-Asian food I’ve ever had, great drinks, seasoned food, and good vibes all around. For experiences, I love Cellar Dog (formerly Fat Cat). It’s this rugged, old school bar with games and amazing live jazz. It’s soothing, grounding, and warms the heart. If the weather’s nice, I’d take a walk through Central Park, taking in the greenery, watching the buskers, it’s a classic New York experience.

And for nightlife, two of my favorite spots are The Delancey and The DL. The DJs, the aesthetics, the energy, it’s just fun, a place to let loose, dance, and really soak in the city.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First, I want to give a shoutout to my family for always supporting my dreams and encouraging me to strive for more, not just from myself but from the world around me. Next, I have to shoutout Michael Jackson’s song “Ben”, which I even have tattooed on my arm, for being the spark that inspired me to pursue music when I was 5. Seeing someone so young pour so much emotion and passion into their craft made me want to do the same. Lastly, I want to recognize everyone who has stood by me during my journey and rooted for me along the way. There are people I’ve impacted who still check in on me and my progress, and that love and support means the world to me.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melmay.wav/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-h-270851111/

Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/ae2zYPmRQl24z7VT0K