Conversations with Freddie Mcclendon

Today we’d like to introduce you to Freddie Mcclendon

Hi Freddie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?

Hailing from the charming town of Greenwood, South Carolina, Freddie McClendon has been a force of nature in the music scene since childhood. His journey began long before he could fully grasp the power of performance; it ignited in him a fire for creativity and expression that would shape his life. Freddie’s earliest memories are steeped in music, singing before he could even articulate the depth of his passion.

His formative years were marked by an extraordinary opportunity: guest appearances with the legendary band, the Swingin’ Medallions, known for their iconic 1960s hit “Double Shot.” This early exposure to live music set the stage for his future, allowing him to absorb the nuances of performance and stagecraft, inspiring a young boy to dream big.

At just 13, Freddie took a leap of faith and formed a band with childhood friends and brothers—Jarratt, Benjo, and Witt Smith. Together, they turned their shared passion into a whirlwind of energy, playing shows throughout upstate South Carolina. Their youthful exuberance resonated with audiences, bringing a fresh twist to local music that captivated listeners and created a lasting bond among the band members. Freddie quickly developed a reputation for his eclectic stage presence, blending a southern charm with a flair that felt both modern and timeless.

Tragedy struck in May 2023 when Freddie’s world was shattered by the murder of his father, Davis McClendon, in their hometown. The heart-wrenching event sent shockwaves through the community and captured the attention of news outlets, including CourtTV and various tabloids across South Carolina. But amid the turmoil and grief, Freddie felt an overwhelming need to honor his father’s legacy, transforming his pain into powerful art.

Out of this profound loss emerged *Present Memories*, an album that intricately weaves stories of his father’s vibrant life with reflections on Freddie’s own adolescence. Each track serves as a heartfelt tribute, bridging the gap between past and present, and allowing Freddie to connect with his father in ways he had never imagined. The album not only showcases his musical talent but also his ability to channel raw emotion into art, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with listeners.

Freddie’s musical style is nothing short of extraordinary, a fusion of southern roots and contemporary pop that sets him apart in an ever-evolving industry. His sound channels the theatricality of legends like Freddie Mercury and David Bowie, while embracing the soulful essence of Elvis and classic country. This unique blend results in a soundscape that is both innovative and nostalgic, striking a chord with a wide array of audiences.

As he prepares to make his mark on Nashville, Freddie brings an eccentric and energetic stage presence that promises to captivate fans from the first note. His performances are not merely concerts; they are immersive experiences that invite the audience to share in his journey. With a flair for storytelling and a commitment to authenticity, Freddie McClendon is poised to redefine what it means to be an artist in today’s music landscape.

With a heart full of memories and a voice that transcends boundaries, Freddie McClendon is more than just a musician—he is a storyteller, an innovator, and a beacon of resilience. As he steps onto the Nashville stage, he carries with him the legacy of his father and the spirit of his upbringing, ready to leave an indelible mark on the music world, one unforgettable performance at a time.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
In May 2023, the small town of Greenwood, South Carolina, was rocked by a tragedy that would forever change the lives of the McClendon family. Kenneth Davis McClendon, a beloved father and community member, was killed in a shocking act of violence, a death that drew national attention and raised serious questions about privilege and justice.

Davis was involved with a woman named Meredith Haynie, who was in the midst of a tumultuous divorce from her husband, William “Bud” Ackerman Jr. As the relationship between Meredith and Davis blossomed, Bud’s jealousy escalated, ultimately culminating in a horrific confrontation. On the night of May 7, 2023, following an altercation, Bud intentionally used his Ford F-250 truck to strike Davis, leaving him gravely injured and alone on the roadside.

Witnesses recounted the chilling details of that night, when the confrontation unfolded shortly before the fatal incident. Davis was found outside of his vehicle at an intersection in Greenwood, and investigators determined that Bud’s actions were deliberate. After a comprehensive investigation, Bud was arrested and later charged with murder, marking the beginning of a tumultuous legal battle that would captivate and horrify the community.

In a trial that revealed the depths of human emotion and the complexities of relationships, Bud Ackerman was ultimately found guilty of murder and sentenced to 45 years in prison. The jury’s swift decision underscored the overwhelming evidence against him, including testimony about his reckless actions and a damning video that captured the moments surrounding the incident. Throughout the trial, it became clear that Bud’s background—a product of a wealthy and influential family—had provided him a shield against accountability for much of his life, illustrating the insidious nature of the “good ol’ boy” system that persists in many parts of the South.

The impact of Davis’s death on his family was profound. His son, Freddie McClendon, found himself grappling not only with the deep personal loss of his father but also with the broader societal implications of what had transpired. Freddie openly expressed his frustration and sorrow during the trial, emphasizing the complete lack of remorse shown by Bud and his family throughout the proceedings. In statements made to the court, he articulated the pain felt by his family, mourning the loss of a father while confronting the privilege that allowed Bud to act without fear of consequence.

The emotional testimonies delivered by Freddie and other family members laid bare the profound void left by Davis’s absence. They highlighted the reality that six children lost their father, a fact that reverberated throughout the courtroom, emphasizing the human cost of violence and the ripple effects of such tragedies.

As the trial concluded, the McClendon family sought justice not just for their personal loss, but for a larger conversation about accountability and the systems that protect the privileged at the expense of others. Freddie’s music began to reflect this journey, addressing the themes of power, injustice, and the deeply rooted issues within their community.

Through his art, Freddie McClendon aims to honor his father’s memory and challenge the narratives that often go unexamined. By shining a light on the circumstances surrounding Davis’s death, he seeks to create a dialogue about privilege and the need for change, all while keeping the spirit of his father alive through his music. The tragedy that unfolded in Greenwood serves as a painful reminder of the complexities of love, jealousy, and the quest for justice in a world where some are often shielded from the consequences of their actions.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Find people that you can trust, and that understand you, and want to help you showcase your creativity.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://freddiemcclendon.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freddiemcclendonmusic/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAMW8okSdtdAYx4wUOA9yLw
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7fl9XJuus9doVtX6VPuUyE?si=wIYtXq49QkudK87YRjNjvg