1. Mel Melton changed his plans when he fell in love with the rich culture and physical beauty of southwest Louisiana.
10 Facts About Mel Melton
1. 2.
One of the special attractions of a Bayou Rhythm concert began at the American Music Festival in 1986, when Melton was challenged to a gumbo cook-off with fellow musician Rockin' Dopsie.
3.
The success of the event led Melton to cook more as part of his bands' gigs.
4.
In 1986, Melton left the band to pursue a full-time chef career in Chicago.
5.
Mel Melton frequently did cooking demonstrations and appeared on various Chicago radio and television programs.
6.
Mel Melton was a featured chef at the Chicago Jazz Festival, The American Cancer Society Christmas Gala, and Mardi Gras at the Limelight Club.
7.
In 1990, Melton moved back home to North Carolina, where he continued showcasing his cooking skills at numerous events and cooking schools and by opening several restaurants.
8.
In 2007, Melton opened Papa Mojo's Roadhouse in Durham, North Carolina.
9.
In 2014, Melton closed Papa Mojo's Roadhouse to focus on his music and to continue teaching cooking.
10.
Mel Melton frequently plays in North Carolina and Virginia and several of his 2018 shows featured John Dee Holeman.