Melvin Dunlap facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Melvin Carl Dunlap
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| Born | June 9, 1945 Cleveland, Ohio, U.S. |
| Died | September 12, 2021 (aged 76) Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Genres | Soul, funk, rhythm and blues |
| Occupation(s) | Musician, songwriter, producer |
| Instruments | Bass guitar |
| Years active | c.1960-2021 |
| Associated acts | Charles Wright & the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band, Bill Withers |
Melvin Carl Dunlap (born June 9, 1945, died September 12, 2021) was an amazing American bass guitar player. He was famous for playing with popular musicians like Charles Wright and Bill Withers. Dunlap was also a talented songwriter and music producer.
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Early Life and Musical Start
Melvin Dunlap was born in Cleveland, Ohio. When he was a kid, he had a long illness. During this time, his adoptive parents bought him an old Fender bass guitar from a pawn shop. This is how he started playing music and practicing a lot.
First Bands and Moving West
Melvin started by playing with different local bands. Later, he joined the famous group The O'Jays as their touring bass player. This meant he traveled with them and played bass during their concerts. After a while, Dunlap moved to California. He worked various small jobs while trying to make a living as a full-time musician.
Playing with Famous Artists
Melvin Dunlap became a very important bass player for several well-known bands and artists. His unique style helped create some classic songs.
Charles Wright & the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band
Dunlap joined Charles Wright & the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band. He played bass on their huge hit song, Express Yourself, which came out in 1970. This song is still loved today for its funky sound.
Working with Bill Withers
Later, Melvin became a regular member of Bill Withers' band. He played on some of Withers' most famous songs, including Lean on Me and Use Me. These songs are known worldwide and show off Dunlap's incredible bass skills.
Beyond Playing Bass
Melvin Dunlap did more than just play bass for Bill Withers. He also helped produce some of Withers' albums. This means he worked behind the scenes to help create the final sound of the music. He even shared songwriting credits with Withers on a few songs.
Later Career and "Holistic Funk"
In 2009 and 2012, Melvin Dunlap released two of his own albums. He produced these albums himself. He called his unique style of music "holistic funk." This shows he was always exploring new sounds and ideas in music.
