performing songwriter, university instructor, published author, audio/video specialist
Having played guitar since age 7, Mel has been playing and singing his own songs and those of others for over 40 years.
For the past 20 years, Mel’s "regular job" has been teaching in higher education.
In recent years, Mel has provided audio for a number of concerts in the "Last Minute Folk" series in Topeka, Kansas, and even opened for Buddy Mondlock who headlined one of the shows. However, performances are limited mostly to open mics.
Mel placed first and second in the secular division of the first FWSA Christmas song contest, with "Beautiful Time of the Year" and "Christmas this December".
Several websites bear the efforts of Mel Strait’s digital photography, and video production. Guitarist Andy McKee has several videos on display. Cosy Sheridan is using digital pictures Mel took at one of her performances. Having shot digital pictures of more than 20 performers, it’s difficult to keep track of who is using them and for what.
Mel is also an announcer with considerable credits.
More notable works include:
Strange Tales of the Civil War, is one of Mel’s novels available from Waltsan Publishing in Fort Worth.
Playing with the band, published in VideoMaker Magazine Sept. ‘92
Looking good on video, Gig Magazine April ‘88
Real Cute, is a compilation CD of demo cuts by Mel Strait.
Drinking from the Rootbeer River, is a Jazz flavored instrumental CD, written and recorded by Mel Strait.
- Mel Strait (Jul 15, 2005)