Melvin was large. He was the lead guitarist in the ensemble that got me started. Mel could play anything. He always came to the studio sessions with his professional work attitude and an uplifting disposition. He came to create new music. His superb craftsmanship is featured on my CDs (and vinyl LPs). My singing improved because of his critical ear. When I played guitar with the band (after getting Mel's permission), I would play only after Melvin tuned my guitar; then I knew the tones would be correct. One time during the early days, Mel played a smooth rhythm guitar track; thereby giving me a chance to provide a lead guitar touch in the score's finale. The day before the critical recording session, I travelled for hours by subway and on foot to Mel's home for a guitar tuning; and confirmation that this rookie guitar player could put the final touch on the album project. After the tuning, and some "Maestro speak", the project was completed successfully. Mel inspired confidence; he gave me what I wanted, and graciously added a full measure of what I needed. Mostly, though, Melvin was all we needed on guitar; yet he always buoyed my enthusiasm, embellished my Art, and gave me the room and the opportunity to grow; both in, and because of his company. The quality of the original compositions and arrangements in my catalog improved immensely because Melvin was expected to be in attendance at the studio sessions. We had to provide quality stuff for his level of talent. He was always so much better than I ever knew; but he would never tell. He merely brought a great guitar player to the new guy's recording session, made the music better with ideas and remarkable talent, and then went on to the other musical score. I marvelled at my good fortune in being being able to include Melvin in my music production projects. He made me better in many ways. He enhanced the creative process. He embellished the groove with modest, yet superb, execution. While catching up on some music talent history, I was shocked to learn that my friend and much admired musician band mate had left the set. He mingled with another fellow who aspired to be a singer, yet who is better know as a world heavyweight boxing champion...yes, Joe Frazier. The losses are many. I want to mention just a few. Jimmy Saville (sometimes spelt with one 'l'), was known as a platinum blond wig wearing, huge cigar carrying, and very amiable DJ/TV personality and music fan. He introduced the Rolling Stones; among others. I mention him as an important influence on The British Pop culture scene on my BIO page. Sadly, we will miss, yet continue to enjoy the talents and extraordinary works of: Ralph MacDonald, Clarence Clemons, George Rountree, Heavy D, Don Kirshner, Sir George Shearing, Phoebe Snow, Cornell Dupree, Loleatta Holloway, Gil Scott-Heron, Odell Brown Jr, Raymond Jones (worked with Chic; Spike Lee), Amy Winehouse, Jerry Leiber, Sylvia (Pillow Talk/Rap Genre Exec. Producer), Nickolas Ashford, singer Clarence Johnson, and, unfortunately, some of your other favorite music industry giants; like the beautiful and incomparable Etta James, a London party scene favorite, who retired from the set on January 20, 2012, the day before the first snow fall of winter. By all means, please check up on any unfamiliar names. Of course, I will remember the inspiring moments with my brilliant guitarist friend, musician Melvin Sparks Hassan. He enhanced original melodies like "My Heart's One Desire", "Melody With A Swing" (featuring The Pazant Brass), "Blue Nite Swing", "I'll Always Love You", and "Give It To Me" with superb talent, empowering kindness, and expert guidance, that served to germinate and elevate my music production career with polish, sparkle, and substantive quality. "Thanks Melvin"!