We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa Bethea and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melissa, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
I think a few habits have helped me have some measure of success: a genuine prayer life, being firm bout my personal boundaries, and keeping people around me who tell me the truth no matter what.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a gospel artist who has had amazing opportunities to share the stage with some of the best in Gospel music such as JJ Hairston, Donnie McClurkin, Walter Hawkins, Richard Smallwood, & Hezekiah Walker, just to name a few. However, I’m taking some bold steps to reintroduce myself to the Gospel music community as a solo artist. I have released 2 singles “I Owe It All” and “You’re Coming Out”. I’m excited about my next single “Awesome God” will be available everywhere on 8/26/22. This is such a fun and encouraging song & I can’t wait for everyone to hear it!

This is anything but easy! You hear a lot of “No(s)” and some “Yes(s)” but the key is to just keep going and be certain that God has called you to this. If God has his hand on you, He will surely guide your steps to the finish line.

When someone sees me I want them to know they are looking at a person whose life is the result of complete trust in God. Have experienced some great losses (my biological father and pregnancies due to miscarriage) but God has restored me! he gave me a father that picked up where my dad left off. Then he gave me a miraculous, supernatural pregnancy and now I am a mother of a healthy 4 year old (who is going on 40).
You don’t have to be perfect to live a blessed life – just be willing to dust yourself off and try again. One more thing…. LAUGH – alot!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my BFF came through long story short…. WE GETTIN’ READY TO EAT!! I love food so much and I think it loves me too! HA! I live in Houston now but I’m from the east coast area so I’m still getting a feel for the city. However, we’re going to ALL the PAPAs (Pappadeaux’s, Pappasitos, Pappa’s BBQ), Then we’re gonna hit up Lupe’s for the crepes and fajitas (weird combo but its delicious). Then we gotta go to Grace’s and at that point we’ll be too stuffed to do anything but sleep!

We would definitely get our praise on at New Light Christian Church where I happen to be the worship leader. Then we would take a ride to downtown Houston for more good eats! At some point we have to visit the Houston Aquarium and maybe catch a show at the theater. Being at the theater reminds me of home – I loved going to Broadway shows.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to shout out my village…My parents and my extended family! They taught me to hold close to my heart the things that matter most, which money can’t buy. They instilled in me the principles of life that will keep one grounded even when circumstances seem chaotic. They taught me some very simple, yet impactful lessons that help me navigate life today.

Instagram: @iammelissabethea

Facebook: Melissa Bethea

Youtube: Melissa Bethea

Other: TikTok: @iammelissabethea

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.