As Sweet as Fudge, Mel Cheeky

photos property of Meliane Fudge

Mel Cheeky, AKA, Melanie Fudge is the mother of a boy with Aspergers Syndrome, leaving her a full time mommy and caregiver who doesn’t drive, and finds time to be a performer of original acoustic contemporary folk songs inside Second Life. Mel has a voice as sweet as an angel and songs that will grab your attention,

In this interview with Mel Cheeky, and thinking Melanie Fudge was a stage name I asked Mel her real name. The response I received was Melanie Fudge, after turning a couple shades of red, my questions continued. I found out Melanie has been singing since the age of four. “Annoying anyone that would listen to me. “Not giving people the choice, they just had to listen to me.” Melanie began playing the guitar only two and a half years ago, and does an excellent job for that length of experience. Mel has been influenced mostly by the Carpenters & Mamma Cass, “For making it against all odds. She made people LISTEN to her, not look at her—I wish society was ready to do that again – which is why I like Second Life”, and Gary Cherone from the Extreme…”he is a musical god.”

Mel’s family background gets a bit complicated to follow, but let me give it a whirl in an attempt to allow you to know more about her. Her mother and father had four children, an older sister, Mel, a younger sister, and a brother before they divorced around eleven years ago. Her mother and her new partner have had two children both boys. Mel states, “I have a brother that is younger than my son, which is a little odd, but at least they can all play together.”

Mel found her way to Second Life because of a friend told her about Second Life. One of the first people she met was Frogg Marlowe, and strongly believes it is because of Frogg and all his support and nurturing that she is still in Second Life now. There was a time when she was going to leave Second Life, but “Froggy” convinced her to stick with it. Mel laughs and says “Blame Him!”

Weirdharold: In what ways do you participate in Second Life?

Mel: I play shows most nights in Second Life. Not only do I perform, but I feel that I give back too. I help newbies learn how to stream in SL, I even made up a notecard with directions and pictures on to make things clearer, and offer them a place to play. . Luckily a friend of mine ‘Phishy Noodle’ owns a sim, and we have a venue there called ~Harmony~. I also help out by sponsoring acts also - and I tip well!

Weirdharold: What are the benefits you personally receive out of performing live inside Second Life?

Mel: It’s a great outlet for live music. I love the fact that people lsten to you and make a judgment – not look at you and make an assumption. Music should be about music, not appearance.

Weirdharold: How important do you think it is to interact with the Second Life fans?

Mel: I think it’s THE most important aspect of live music in Second Life. People love to feel involved! I always include people in my performances. I’ll even stop mid song and reply or laugh. It’s just how I am. I figure if I’m having fun, then they will have fun too!

Weirdharold: Can you give me a fair way you think you should be tipped in second Life?

Mel: Oh… a 6 figure sum works.. hahaha!I’m joking! I think it’s wonderful that people give what they can. Every linden helps—it all adds up. I would rather people tip me than to have to pay to get into a venue. That’s something I am STRONGLY AGAINST. I won’t ever play for a venue that charges residents to attend!

I assume it is needless to say I think Mel performances are worthy of your attendence! I admire and enjoy each of her shows I attend. Oh and don’t forget you can buy downloads of her music at her site.

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