A native of Brown Summit, North Carolina, Melvin T. McLean Sr. began playing percussions at the age of 12.  He has played for choirs and groups most of his life, including such gospel artists as Shirley Caesar, Albertina Walker, and the North Carolina A&T Fellowship Gospel Choir.   He was the lead percussionist with a local TV show – Gospel Expo – for 20 years.

His mentor was the late Willie Neal Johnson of the Gospel Keynotes, along with Mr. Val Alexander.  Melvin has played in several churches and groups, which include the Soul Seekers, the Spiritual Cavaliers, and the Perkins Brothers Quartet.

Mr. McLean was dubbed the title of “The North Carolina Gospel Drummer” many years ago by a music promoter, and he always performed as the opener for her programs.  He has appeared on stage with The Mighty Clouds of Joy, Luther Barnes, The Gospel Keynotes, The Williams Brothers, Doc McKenzie and The Highlights, the late Reverend Julius Cheeks and the Knights, and the late Reverend Isaac Douglas.

Melvin has been truly blessed with his accomplishments which include his performance in a play entitled Balancing Act; his present ministries with The Gospel Stars of Greensboro NC; the featured instrumental band Emanueĺ, and the Men's Vocal chorus Men of Gospel. 

Some might call him a star, but Melvin feels that he is just a country boy who has had the Hand of God placed upon him all his life.