Melissa Dylan captivating the audience at a live concert in Grand Rapids.
Singer-songwriter Melissa Dylan is at the forefront of Grand Rapids’ vibrant music scene. Known for her engaging performances and eclectic music style, she will perform with her new band Smile, Darling at Turnstiles on May 30. Dylan, who recently returned to performing after a break, embraces collaboration and creativity in her music, while navigating stage fright and industry challenges. Her upcoming shows are set to be energetic and captivating, making her one of the local artists to watch.
Grand Rapids is on the verge of an exciting musical resurgence, thanks to the vibrant talents of singer-songwriter Melissa Dylan. With her passion for music and a knack for captivating performances, she has become a familiar name in the local music scene. Over the years, she has not only fronted a band but has also shown her versatility by hosting open-mic nights and releasing her own solo music, making her a cherished artist in the community.
Dylan’s music is a delightful mix, drawing influences from indie-pop, alt-rock, and even folk. This eclectic blend allows her to connect with various audiences, creating an engaging listening experience. For those looking to catch her live, she will be gracing the stage with fellow West Michigan musicians Ralston Bowles and Dan Terry for a special songwriter night at SpeakEZ Lounge in Grand Rapids this Friday at 7:30 p.m.
After taking a year and a half off from performing, Melissa made her long-awaited return to the music scene about a year ago. Since then, she has been busy participating in original shows and open-mic guest nights, reveling in the joy of making music rather than focusing solely on performance pressures. This renewed perspective has allowed her to prioritize her own well-being while sharing her love for music with others.
One of the highlights of being back in action for Dylan has been the amazing camaraderie found during songwriter rounds with her peers. She values the shared inspiration that comes from collaboration, enriching her experience and performance. As she prepares for her shows, she creates lists of songs and adapts her setlist based on the room’s mood, ensuring that each gig feels fresh and engaging. Surprisingly, she often deviates from her planned setlist, making her performances feel spontaneous and alive.
Describing her style as awkwardly entertaining, Dylan brings a personal touch to her performances, deeply connecting with her songs and the audience. Her experience hosting open-mics has not only shaped her as a performer but also provided her with a broader perspective on the local music industry. Despite some challenges—especially as a woman in an industry where authority is often overlooked by men—she remains undeterred, finding inspiration in the bravery of new artists stepping onto the stage for the first time.
Recently, Dylan has formed a new band called Smile, Darling, which promises to deliver energetic pop-punk fused with bluesy rock elements. The excitement doesn’t stop there! They’ll be hitting the stage for their first show on May 30 at Turnstiles, sharing the spotlight with Beachglass and Midwest Skies. Additionally, fans can catch her in a solo performance at Turnstiles on March 29 alongside fellow artists Edison Kitt and the Strangers, and the Justin Richard Holcomb Band.
Among the artists that inspire her, Kevin Devine stands out, even though their musical styles differ. Dylan loves watching local acts like The Cosmoknights, as they recharge her own creative energy. Her commitment to delivering quality performances is evident, and she strives to surround herself with supportive environments that foster growth and courage.
Interestingly enough, despite her experience and frequent performances, Dylan continues to battle stage fright. It’s a reminder that artists are just like us—feeling nervous yet passionate about what they love to do. Melissa Dylan is undoubtedly an artist to watch, and her upcoming performances are sure to leave audiences eagerly anticipating more!
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