Today we’d like to introduce you to Maddy Jones.
Hi Maddy, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember – really, since before I was old enough to understand what it meant to be a singer! I’m eight years old now, and music has been part of my life from the very beginning. Around age three, my family recognized my special love and talent for singing, and my mom began looking for ways to help me develop my voice.
Finding vocal lessons wasn’t easy because most places felt I was too young. Eventually, my mom found Memphis Music Academy, where I took music classes for about four months, learning about different instruments and the world of music. Although my children’s class didn’t typically participate in recitals, the academy gave me a special opportunity to perform. At just four years old, I stepped onto a stage for the very first time, beginning my journey as a performer.
My mom continued searching for vocal training until she found Mrs. Lisa Marie of CVP Coaching in Lakeland, Tennessee. Despite my young age, Mrs. Lisa Marie welcomed me as a student and has helped me develop my voice, technique, confidence, and stage presence. One of my first milestones was recording my very first Christmas cover song, which she shared on YouTube. I was so excited to have my own recording and music video!
Through Mrs. Lisa Marie, I also began performing at the Delta Fair alongside other young singers on the main stage. Another major opportunity came when she partnered with Jason of Talent One Productions for Legends of Soul Reimagined in Memphis, Tennessee. I was invited as a special guest to perform alongside local Memphis artists. That experience became a turning point in my journey and introduced me to people who would help shape the next chapter of my musical career.
During that production, I met Charmaine Tyrell, who took an interest in me. Elevation Memphis, a live entertainment band known for its tribute productions and other musical projects, was also part of the show. Melanie, who helps lead the band, saw me perform and wanted to learn more about me. She asked Charmaine to get my parents’ contact information because they wanted to invite me to perform with them.
Not long afterward, Charmaine contacted my mom with an invitation to join Elevation Memphis for its Tina Turner tribute production. My first performance with the band was at Lafayette’s Music Room in Memphis, Tennessee. We had so much fun performing together, and they continued inviting me back! Today, I regularly perform with Elevation Memphis at Lafayette’s. I’ve also had the exciting opportunity to perform with the band at City Winery in Nashville during its Aaliyah and Maxwell tribute.
One of the band’s members, LaShon, gave me the nickname “The Princess of Elevation,” which has become a special part of my story. Performing with Elevation Memphis has allowed me to share the stage with talented musicians, experience different styles of music, and continue growing as a live performer.
I’ve continued building my experience through multiple Delta Fair performances, including my own solo set on the Delta Stage. I’ve also participated in Star Kids Live alongside Mrs. Lisa Marie and other young singers she coaches. The following year, I was invited back to perform in Legends Reimagined, the next production following Legends of Soul Reimagined. Being invited back was another exciting milestone and gave me another opportunity to share the stage with talented local artists.
My journey has also opened doors beyond the stage. I’ve been featured in segments on FOX13 Memphis and Action News 5, and when I was six years old, I had my first radio interview on Radio Memphis with Momma Red. It was such a fun experience that allowed me to talk about my love for music and share my personality with listeners.
I’ve also discovered that I love more than just singing! I explored musical theater through Playhouse on the Square’s Spring Musical Theater School in Memphis, where I was selected to perform a solo in the showcase. I also attend acting summer camp at Lily Rose Studios, where I’m learning about acting and developing my performance skills. These experiences have helped me discover new ways to express myself and tell stories through performing.
I’m continuing to grow as a musician, too. I recently started piano lessons with Valetta Brinson of Brinson Music Group because I want to expand my musical knowledge and develop skills beyond singing. At school, I participate in choir, recorder club, and STEM club. I love exploring new interests while continuing to pursue the things that make me happy.
I’m still at the beginning of my journey, and there is so much more I want to learn and accomplish. I love being on stage, connecting with an audience, and sharing my happiness through music. Every performance teaches me something new, and every opportunity inspires me to keep working hard. I’m excited to continue growing as a singer, musician, and performer, exploring opportunities in both music and acting, and seeing where my love for performing takes me next!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road hasn’t always been completely smooth, but many of the early challenges were things my parents had to navigate as they helped me get started. Since I was so young, I didn’t really understand everything that went into it. I just went wherever my parents took me! They had to find the right opportunities and someone willing to help me grow.
As I’ve gotten more involved, balancing school, rehearsals, and performances can sometimes be a challenge, especially when I’m tired after a long school day. But I also get to enjoy being a kid, spending time with my family, and doing other things I love. My family helps me find that balance while encouraging me to keep growing as a performer. Overall, it hasn’t been too difficult, and I’m grateful that I get to do something that makes me so happy!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m an eight-year-old third grader who loves to sing, perform, and entertain people! Singing is my specialty, but being on stage is where I really shine. I love connecting with the audience, making people smile, and giving every performance my all. When I’m on stage, I feel right at home!
I’m most proud of how much I’ve grown since I first started performing at four years old. Every experience teaches me something new, and I love getting opportunities to challenge myself and try new things. I think what sets me apart is my confidence on stage and how much I genuinely LOVE entertaining people. I love making people feel something through music, and there’s nothing better than knowing someone enjoyed watching me perform!
Of course, I’m still a regular eight-year-old. I have school, homework, friends, and all the other things that come with being in third grade. I can go from performing on stage to talking about what happened at school like it’s no big deal. 😂 And just so you know, I still have homework to do when the show is over!
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Well, I’m still growing up, so I guess we’re still figuring that out! But one thing I know is that I’ve always had a BIG personality. I’m very outgoing, love talking to people, and pretty much have never met a stranger. My mom says I can make a friend just about anywhere I go!
I also LOVE animals. If there’s an animal around, chances are I’m going to want to see it, pet it, or talk about it! I love singing, performing, spending time with my family, and trying new things. I’ve always enjoyed being around people and making them laugh. I guess you could say I have a lot to say, a lot of love to give, and a whole lot of personality packed into this little person!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @melodieswithmaddy1
- Facebook: Maddy Jones
- Other: TikTok: @melodieswithmaddy1
Image Credits
Reggie Pederson
