Tony Melendez plays the guitar with his feet! I attended his concert many years ago through my church when I was a teenager. I learned about his life as a thalidomide infant and being born with no arms. Not only was his songwriting great, but Tony himself inspired me to embrace my musical talents in a very dear way. Whether you believe in God or not, there’s simply no argument that Tony is a blessed person – someone who has taken his challenges in life and given them a giant facepalm…with his feet.

At this time in the mid-1990s, I enjoyed that Tony Melendez’ music was spiritual without being campy. As a teen, I appreciated the choral and rock combination of Tony’s version of the “The Lord’s Prayer,” and I thought it was cool that Pope John Paul II kissed him after a performance of Tony’s “Never Be the Same” song.

His ability to play is wonderful, and for me, his abilities gave me a new perspective on my own musical abilities. In part, I remained a church musician at some level throughout my life, no matter what my other musical pursuits have been, as a reminder that I am a very fortunate creative soul. I have two hands and two feet to make music. Not everyone has it as easy.

As a music teacher, I recently gave my students a taste of Tony’s Our Father prayer from his Never Be The Same album.  From Kindergarten through 8th grade, I saw that familiar face of “Wow! This is the Our Father?!” It made me very happy and prompted me to share Tony Melendez and his music in my blog.

This is the version of The Lord’s Prayer. I couldn’t find a current YouTube version of it.

http://grooveshark.com/s/The+Lord+s+Prayer/2szimN?src=5

As one of the least mainstream inspirations in my musical life, I feel that anyone can enjoy Tony’s story and music. To my surprise, he’s playing a couple of shows in June in my area, too! I love that he continues to perform and share his talent. I’ve included some links and local information below. Enjoy!

http://www.tonymelendez.com/English/Welcome.html

http://www.youtube.com/user/toejammusic/videos

http://www.tonymelendez.com/English/Tour_Calendar.html

Spring Valley NY Marvel 845-659-4970