With so much going on currently in the world, in response to another innocent unarmed Black man’s life being tragically taken away from him, it leaves a bad taste in the mouths of others all over the world but it also puts Black men worldwide in an uncomfortable and scary position. Constantly having to protect their beings, constantly in a war in so many ways. Not just physically but also mentally, emotionally, spiritually, sexually, and so much more. So many great Black men both past and present have existed in spaces for their voices to be heard. With so much hurt, pain, and stress that comes with being a Black man, also comes with great joy, art and great voices. Black men speaking on their personal experiences to help other Black men feel welcomed, loved, and comfortable for their being is a great start to healing a people and another way of honoring our ancestors and inspiring future generations to come. One great Black voice in particular that definitely is a perfect example of what it means to be raw, real, and honest about his existence and being is a young artist all the way from Baltimore but raised in Edgewood who goes by the name Mello Mook. With a recent video of him expressing himself as a Black man in this current situation, the honesty and rawness draws you in like a painting in an exhibit. There’s a story to tell. Born Hasaan Lee Craig Fulton on December 17th, 1994 to both a mother and stepfather, life was a challenge for Fulton because he was in search of his identity and voice. A similar story to so many others. With his goals and ambitions, he felt he had no true support from his peers and didn’t meet his real father until he was 18. His fear kept him from truly shining in his light as well as not having any inspirations because it only made him doubt his own true talent even more. That’s a lot for a young man to deal with mentally and emotionally. Unable to speak his truth because his frustration took over every time, Fulton decided to start writing instead. He wrote because he lost hisself but it was the beginning of a new journey down the road to becoming a new found artist in his truth, his own words, his own light. He says “…just remember nobody knows what’s best for you, just sit down talk to yourself and put your dreams to actions.” He currently has a project called “Hidden Feelings.” The perfect name for an artist whose voice and identity was once hidden behind his true feelings. Even though Fulton finally found his voice and identity, he does regret letting his fear stop him in the past. Years from now, he sees himself mentoring the youth on being more strong and level headed, as well as help healing others through music. Using his words to touch and heal others. This young man has an incredible sense of self. A strong man like Fulton is needed much more. After all, powerful men can do more than just heal they build and can do such amazing things through love, support, and protection. If you want to check out more of this artist, follow him on Instagram: @mello__mook.
Written by Jalen Hemphill