Garland, TX —In a recent interview with the Garland Gazette, local musician Mel Stock reflected on his journey from a young guitarist to a passionate presence in the Dallas music scene, having built a loyal following along the way. Born and raised in Garland since 1982, Stock has dedicated his life to music, playing for the Dallas Stars since 2016 and traveling across the country for gigs.
Stock, who was raised by a single mother and started playing guitar at age 10, has deep roots in the local community. He recalls taking classes at the Main Street Cafe, which once served as an art studio, and fondly remembers seeing iconic acts like the Chicks and Blue Öyster Cult. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to widespread cancellations, Stock continues to perform.
The musician emphasized the importance of community support and the need for Garland to recognize its homegrown talent. Stock remains hopeful about the growing local arts scene, which he felt had become stagnant. “The downtown arts are coming back up in the area after being sterile for a while,” he noted.
Stock’s experience in the music industry has not been without its hurdles. He described the industry as “very clicky,” with many roadblocks placed in the way of aspiring musicians. However, he believes that adaptability is key. He has played for the Dallas Stars in exchange for tickets, highlighting that while money is important, it’s not his primary motivation. “I enjoy music, and I want to improve the music scene,” he said.
Reflecting on his education, Stock credited the Garland Independent School District (GISD) for helping him build his musical foundation. He participated in the band at Bussey Middle School, where he was encouraged by his instructors to explore different music styles.
In addition to his solo work, Stock performs in a Chris Stapleton cover band and is signed with two talent agencies. When asked about some of his favorite original songs, he shared insights about his top three, each of which has a unique impact on listeners. “Bridges” lyrically tells a story that resonates deeply with him, while “Letters to a Ghost” was inspired by an article discussing how chanting in songs can connect with audiences and increase their appeal, a technique that has helped the song reach a wider audience. Lastly, “Losing Sleep” carries profound meaning, often moving listeners to tears during his performances.
Despite the challenges of the music industry, including not collecting royalties from streaming platforms in over three years, Stock remains dedicated to his craft. He dreams of booking shows at local venues like the Plaza Theatre and has even explored the possibility of hosting tribute acts for artists like Garth Brooks and Fleetwood Mac.
As he continues to navigate the evolving music landscape, Stock is also involved in graphic design and marketing. He hopes to inspire future generations of musicians in Garland and beyond. With a vision to elevate the local music scene, Mel Stock is a passionate advocate for his community and a testament to the enduring power of music. For more about his work, listeners can visit Jake Odin and the Marching Band on Facebook.
