Mello Melanin is The Hot Instrumentalist! Born and raised in Atlanta, GA, Mello began making and submitting demos to record labels as early as 1988. He co-founded Asylum Entertainment in 1996.

Outstanding artist accomplishments include a memorable performance at the World Famous Apollo Theatre in Harlem, NY, opening for the Grammy Award-winning Hiphop band, The Roots, and touring with the legendary Blastmaster KRS-ONE. He’s shared the stage with well know acts such as Grammy Award winner T. I.'s own DJ Drama (Gangsta Grillz), Talib Kweli, Slum Village, MF Doom, dead prez, and others.

Under Asylum, Mello has promoted many events including the Kings of Comedy Tour featuring comedian Steve Harvey, films such as Training Day featuring Oscar Winner Denzel Washington, stage plays, album releases, etc.

His video for "Gotcha" was featured on BET (Black Entertainment Television) and various Rap video shows around the world. Some of Asylum's music has been featured in television and radio commercials (Atlanta Hawks, Skillz Athletic Wear, Hot 107.9 (formerly Hot 97.5) in Atlanta, GA), films, videos, video games, contests, etc., and of course music industry records.