One of the wonderful privileges of working with and meeting so many persons over the years is the opportunity to part of special moments in their lives. These occasions may be the celebration of marriage, a new child, a fishing trip, friends and family gathered together – and yes, also getting that phone call that someone we have spent a good deal of time with as a client and friend will soon be leaving this earthly dwelling. Such was the case last week when I heard from Melvin Cullum’s family.
About 11 years ago Melvin and his friend, Pat Langdon, came to Tesco Productions to complete a compilation project entitled “the tales of… TWO GUN PETE”. My colleague at the time, Jon Guggenheim, engineered the recording and mastering and we all became good friends over time. I’ve stayed in touch with Melvin over the years with calls and visits. One of the last times we were together he was singing one of many, many songs he wrote that have gone with him – some of which were never performed or heard. So Jon was the first to get my call that Melvin was soon leaving us. Today Pat and I attended his homecoming celebration.
Melvin Cullum has concluded “Headin’ Down the Home Stretch” (final CD cut), and knew he was ready to cross his finish line. Our sincere love and care to his family. Thank you, Melvin, for sharing your God-given talents and joy of life with us all.
Jon adds, “I was saddened to hear of Melvin’s passing. Not only did he have a beautiful voice, he had a beautiful spirit. Both came through in his music. I’ll try to view his passing through ‘Rose-Colored Glasses’ [CD cut]. He will live on in the songs he left behind.”
Melvin and I met when I was 18. At the time I had just become lead guitar player in a local band that had become the backing band for “Grand Illusion.” Melvin had formed this group in Grand Rapids Michigan and it incuded Jeffrey Walker (who’d worked with him in Showpushers), Frank Scholette and Marvin (whose last name I can’t recall). Melvin and I were close, and he was the leader – a consummate frontman and showman, and the band visionary. We performed to packed audiences at the Grand Rapids “Yacht Club,” and later toured the Chitlin’ circuit, circa1973 – 74, including Mobile, Meridian, Ft. Walton Beach, Pensacola, etc.
I’m sorry to be learning, so many years later, of Melvin’s departure. He was a remarkable guy.
I am one of Willie Melvin Cullum foster child now i always accecpt him as my father because he was always been there for me. He was a great music singer and i respect him for how much he put in into his music. I love him thats my dad and the rest of the family. R.I.P Willie Melvin Cullum aka 2Gun Pete!! Love u dad and miss You
I am so sorry to hear this news. I had the pleasure of singing with Melvin a few yeras ago (1997 I think) around the time he collaborated with Lalomie Washburn. I had lost touch with him and then for my life could not remember his last name until yesterday when I came across an old flier for one of our shows.
So I did a search today in hopes of connecting again. I wish that I had found him sooner. He was a great talent and mentor. He will always be remembered in my heart.
Hi, this is Jamel Cullum, one of my Father’s youngest children. He was very inspirational to us and always motivating in one way or the other. I know my Father would acknowledge with great appreciation that you have honored him. He will forever be missed, but he will never be forgotten by his fans and by his always loving family.
Thank you for paying tribute to Melvin Cullum on your website. You have certainly honored him with your words and for those of us who havent heard his voice in many years, it was nice being able to hear his beautiful baritone voice. g