“I’ve been in Ottawa the last 6 years of my life and only started performing under three years ago so that must mean the growth between then and now is exponentially greater than before.”

Melo / @vibebymelo is a curious, creative exception to the rule, performing, singer-songwriter, rapper and artist. Born and raised in the GTA but studied and curated in Ottawa, he has been able to find his sound. A sound he’s created for those who can’t express themselves quite the same. He tends to be very intuitive and introspective when he wants, but what’s shows mostly is his resilience and focus on his work. Outside of the music, he can be quite the sociable and easy-going guy. Never really ever trying to fit in, Melo doesn’t have a hard time making new friends and standing out. Maybe it’s the Jamaican background, but his free spirited behaviours come off very approachable and fun. Now that he’s finished his degree in Music in Canada’s Capital, he has head back home where it all started with a dedicated vengeance for success.

Questions

What would the “thesis” be of your own biography?
When the going gets tough, the tough keep going because this too shall pass.

What is your Bruce job and your Batman job?
Working currently at Apple Inc...

Yes, the phones, and loving every moment of it might I add! I moonlight as a recording artist picking up new gigs and opportunities everywhere I go. Lately I have been picking up video editing and have come to realize how good my raw skill is! It’s only a matter of time I turn it into a developed and professional passion of mine.

What song is your proudest creation?
This is probably going be the hardest question to answer because I proud of all of them! You know when you’re growing up and your mom/dad measures you by making a nick along the wall where the top of your head lies? Each is like a nick, showing where I was to where I am now. HOWEVER, if I really had to choose... I think it would be between either one of my unreleased songs (shhhh!) or Keep Your Eyes On Me, based on the sheer speed of the rap. I felt like twista for a bit. That feelings gone now, but it was still dope to learn I could touch a faster flow.

If you could give your past self advice, what would it be?
STOP B*****’N N SWEAT’N THE SMALL STUFF N GUESS WHAT...it’s all small stuff man. All of it. All distractions so just stay focused...waste yute.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Owning property, renting out owned properties, investing into some sort of tech that interests me. All of this, alongside starting a label with the world next best artists on it. Discussing with Drake how we’re gonna keep Canada great forever.

If you were to pass down a legacy, what would you want that to be?
I want to open an artist development centre with ties in Jamaica, Canada, The States and South American.

Why do you think I chose you to be a part of my series “ICON OTTAWA”
Okay I lied, this ties for the hardest question.

I’ve been in Ottawa the last 6 years of my life and only started performing under three years ago so that must mean the growth between then and now is exponentially greater than before. I have been told time and time again that I’m quite determined and persistent in achieving my goals which has come off to influential to my older and younger brothers. So maybe that’s why.

I haven’t let anything stop me before and I won’t start that now. Although I’m not an Ottawa Native, I have made some very solidified bonds with friends and family out here that support me wholeheartedly. I came in as a nobody and made a name for myself. From open mic gigs at Record Runners and Ppl Nightclub to Canada Day Festival Performances on the Hill.

Ottawa has truly helped me grow into an educated, talented individual and all I want is to allow someone listening to my music or reading this to feel inspired to create something beautiful too.

Love you, Ottawa.

Thanks again Willow for all the love and support! Lemme know when you’re in Toronto next!!

The reason I chose Melo,

Melo has a vivid ability to create music that takes you on a journey. Even from when I first met him, I could tell he had an incredible mind for art. He was a joyous and confident guy. Proud of his craft. And unafraid of showing the world of it. I am honoured to announce Melo as our next ottawa icon!

Melo' ICON is an oyster. The shell that takes where they’re from and produces pearls. His mind create the art. The places he’s been, draws the map. The people he meets, writes the story.
He teaches you to not take life easy. To use your strength and build the life worth living. Only you can make your life the way you want it. No matter the position, or how hard it may be to get there. Striving and never giving up will get you to the places you want to be. 

A big "Thank you" to everyone on the team
 involved in making this possible! Looking forward to .06 of OTTAWA ICON

Location: Downtown
Photographer: Willow Lamoureux Photography / @willowthephotographer
Assistant: Anna Pickles / @anna_pickles_41319
Model: Melo Griffith / @vibebymelo