Video Lunch: Melange Lavonne - "Gay Bash"

It’s been a long road for Melange Lavonne from growing up in Moreno Valley, California to becoming the actress, model and major name in the Homohop industry she is today. Today's video, “Gay Bash,” depicts her outrage toward the death of her friend Kevin at the hands of gay bashers and the judgment she faces for being gay from many Christian groups.

Definitely check out this in-depth profile here on Melange (along with a very personal interview) on AfterEllen.

Melange’s isn't just about music, though; she plays Jaden, a lesbian dating a hermaphrodite who accidentally impregnates her, in the upcoming series Don’t Go. The show follows the lives of a group of lesbians of color living together in a complex in L.A.; the creators describe it as Melrose Place meets The L-Word meets 227. It will premiere at Outfest in July, and you can watch the trailer here.

Melange definitely has some model in her...More on her struggle during the early years after the jump.

Melange said she knew she was gay at an extremely young age, and turned to sports to get her through a difficult childhood. She’s fought Hodgkin’s Disease since she was 12, surviving one and a half years of radiation therapy.

She also was not out to her parents and lost an athletic scholarship from Dillard University in New Orleans when her coach suspected she was gay.

But Melange has made it past her countless setbacks; along with her new album and tour with HomoRevolution, she’s now enrolled in school, majoring in graphic design with a minor in business marketing. Wow, she's so multi-talented.

Comments

[I-I`]

I watched this video earlier this week on a link my friend sent me and I'm glad that she did. It's good to see positive message-driven hip hop.
Thanx

[Brody]

Melange's video "Gay Bash" represents todays corruption and confrontational issues in america today that need to be delt with yet arent even being noticed or getting the least bit of attention! The more videos and songs and artist presenting this issue in their music or just bringing it up when speaking in front of cameras can make a dramatic impact an possibly george w. bush will comprehend something for once in his life!

[carlee lynn wartes]

this is an amazing video!!! why isn't her stuff out everywhere? you should definatly have more by her out there!!!

[Joe]

Kudos Melange, I'm proud to know there is an artist like you who represents the bigger picture. Who doesnt address sex all the time but more so real issues in our culture! mwahhh...

[Kandi]

I don't even have the words to express the respect I have for this up and coming lesbian musician! She freakin rocks and u NEED to check her music out. Melange Lavonne's music is a mixture of hip-hop with lyrics focused on a political agenda we can all appreciate!

[Stephanie S.]

I absolutley love this song, the first time i heard it i almost cried because it's so true. I'm so glad you made a song about this. I'm sick of the constant recreativity in the hiphop world, and the lack of originality and meanig. every song is about sex, drugs, killing, or a dumb dance, but your music...your music means something, it makes a difference. If you're reading this Melange, you are truly an amazing person, i do wish that i could meet you someday and i thank you for representing lesbian women of color, especially in hip hop.

[Melange Lavonne]

Of course Im reading this Stephanie, I have my eye out for everything ;) I am definately flattered. I represent everyone, and I think music should be diverse, so dance, and sexual music isnt so bad :) I just happen to be a different kind of artist :)

[Lina]

Melange is beautiful inside and out. This video is very moving.
kepp playing it, everyone needs to see it
x

[capri]

i love watching this video. it's very touching/

[Healer]

i love the video dear it was great nice work i wish i could buy your stuff in stores but the man is keeping you down and out shame on them all you have a voice that needs to be heard and those whom have denied her you should be ashamed...It is all about Love people and how we should love everyone...at least that is what i get from her and her songs be tolerant and do not judge...(look in the mirror first)

[Tristan]

Very moving, I cried, u are truly a voice for us. Where have u been?? And why not sooner?? U are beautiful in everyway. You're my new hero.

A sincere Fan

[Paula]

This girl is awesome! Truly an inspiration! She stands up for what is right and delivers message that should be heard, so strongly. I cannot wait until her first album comes out!!!

[Sakura]

I have listened to her music and when the music video came out it was one of my favorite. I love this and I love the message that it gives to people out there. I think everyone should watch this video. Love it!

[abicuss]

you go girl. much props keep doin your thing. your going to be recognized for all your great talents. much love

[Pam]

It's amazing and sad how when a life is lost society focuses more on the life they lived instead of the piece that is missing from someone’s heart. Keep doing what you’re doing - show that it's the heart of a person that matters not who nor how they love!

[Alison]

I was at home listening to NNN when this video came on and suddenly I stopped what I was doing and focused my attention to the TV. Even with the sadness of the song, hearing the truth about the way our country still hates and discriminates against all GLBT's was refreshing to hear.

I say, "Play it loud for the world to hear!"

God Speed to you and your future. I will be watching and hoping for you to be in the Nashville area SOON..

[Two]

I loved the message and the video. I think you will make a big impact in the LGBT community and on the homophobic community. Keep making your voice heard.

[Amanda]

YES!! Mel is awesome. She is a much needed voice in the hiphop world. I was so excited when I first heard her on myspace. I have been listening to her music every day. She is an amazing and inspiring woman. I wish her the best in everything. This video should be everywhere;the world need to here what she has to say!!

[kristy]

Melange is truly talented and its about damn time someone get this message out to the world. I seriously believe this should be all over the tv and radio. This is not only a strong positive message for the gay community but also an eye opener to those who dont consider themselves part of it... incredible.

[George]

I just want to say that I have never heard such a powerful message in a song unil now. That was incredibly amazing. You are heaven sent. I went to your myspace page and understand why you are the way you are, you believe in positive energy and things that are good. You seem so passionate about your message and I am honored to have a person like you in our community who is finally standind up through their lyrical ability and utilizing it for something positive. Can't wait to see you on Oprah. Your are a powerful person in community who will make an impact!!

[Cassy]

Woooowzer! I was browsing online, bored, and came across your video, great message, but hope this doesnt sound shallow, Melange Lavonne is HOT! Keep up the good work. Talent and Beauty is a deadly combination.

[KINGBEATS]

THIS IS MY CUZZZZ RIGHT HERE!!! MEL IS HERE TO TELL THE WORLD HOW MESSED UP IT IS AND TO LET LISTENERS "LISTEN" TO A SONG ONCE AGAIN! TAKE NOTICE TO THIS TALENTED AND BEAUTIFUL PERSON INSIDE AND OUT. THAT VIDEO IS BANGIN!

LUV YA HOMIE

KINGBEATS

[STEVIE]

Now this is a true artist doing her thing. This song is just what the hiphop scene needs.....some deep lyrics that have a meaning. Melange you are truly a star in the making and you should be getting record deals offers left and right if you haven't already......I LOVE THIS VIDEO!
Can't wait to see more of you in the future your new fan!

Stevie

[RACHEL]

KEEP PLAYING THIS VIDEO...THE WHOLE WORLD NEEDS TO LISTEN TO THIS ONE. NICE WORK MELANGE......YOUR VIDEO HAD ME IN TEARS,,,,,VERY EMOTIONAL!
I LOVE IT. ANOTHER NEW FAN

[Joseph Phillips]

Hey, I love your song "Gay Bash". It has a really good point. I love my live of being gay. And I do get picked on a lot for being out.