Tony Melendez

Background

His mother took Thalidomide while pregnant, which caused his disability. Visibly moved, the Pope descended from his chair and embraced Meléndez.

Career

Meléndez has learned to play the guitar with his feet. Meléndez began playing and singing in the Los Angeles area in 1985. On September 15, 1987, Meléndez sang Never Be the Same while playing the guitar with his feet in a special performance for Pope John Paul World War II The Pope told Meléndez, "My wish to you, is to continue of giving this hope to all, all the people," which inspired him.

As of 2005, his band, Tony Meléndez and the Toe Jam Band, has a busy concert schedule.

Meléndez gives motivational talks and has written a book He campaigns actively for the pro-life cause.

Achievements

• Meléndez has won Unity Awards Male Vocalist of the Year UCMVA in 2000, 2002, and 2004, and In 2002, he took Artist of the year. He received the Branson Entertainment Award for Best New Artist in 1999, the "Inspirational Hero Award from the NFL Alumni Association at the Super Bowl XXIII and has received special commendations from the State of California for his work with young people and from President Reagan, regarding Tony "as a positive role model for America". Special Commendation from President Reagan — As A Positive Role Model for America Special Commendation from State of California - Foreign Work with Young People Inspirational Hero Award from the NFL Alumni Association at Super Bowl XXIII in Miami Branson Entertainment Awards – Best New Artist (1999) Unity Awards — Male Vocalist of the Year UCMVA (2000) Unity Awards — Artist of the Year UCMVA (2002) Unity Awards — Male Vocalist of the Year UCMVA (2002) Unity Awards — Male Vocalist of the Year UCMVA (2004).

Works

More photos

• book

  • Hands in Heaven

    (cassette)