Joe-L Da Vessel and Melodic

The 2008 Gospel Music Stellar Nominated artist Joeseph Holt, formerly known as "Big Shank", but now known as "Joe-L Da Vessel" began his career of music in the 1980's as a party dj and rapper. Joe-L has shared the stage with a variety of industry artist and rappers such as Ludacris, Mobb Deep, Kurtis Blow, and Fat Joe. Joe-L launched his carrer by writing songs with T.V. and film star Raven Simone as well as working with The Inc. / Def Jam artist Vita. As Big shank, Joe-L released his first hit single "Long Dough", with a video shot on location at the home of Sisqo of Dru Hill. After finding some success in the secular side of the music industry, along with having offers from Blackground Records, and Sony Music, Joe-L decided that he wanted to make a change in his life. Instead of glamourizing the thug life he wanted to give all glory to God. Joe-L left the secular music industry and gave his life to Jesus Christ. During this transition he began to spend more time with his family and loved ones, and also concentrated on other career options. After taking a momentary absence from the music industry, God revealed the name Joe-L Davessel and began to pour songs into his heart again - only these songs glorified the most high.

Joe-L is a husband, a father, and an ordained deacon who loves God and his people. Currently Joe-L is performing and ministering with his band "Melodic Praise" at youth events, churches, clubs, jails, youth detention centers, and anywhere else where his music ministry is needed.

Melodic is:

JOSEPH "Joe-L" HOLT (LEAD/BKRND VOCALS)

KEVIN "B-Ez" BRIGHT (KEYBOARDS)

STEVE “BIG STEVE” MITCHELL (BASS GUITAR),

TOLBERT "Dr. Collins" COLLINS, (GUITAR)

ADDISON "LEFTY" HESTER (PERCUSSIONS)

JOVEL "Jovie Baby" FORD - (DRUMS)

Yes. All over - wherever God sends us. We have played the East Coast mostly from Virginia to New York but we've also played in Las Vegas thus far. And yes, we love it! We all know that this is what we're called to do. Special moments? Way too many to name!

Mint Condition, Maze f/Frankie Beverly, The Roots, Trouble Funk, J. Dilla, The Weather Report, Eric B. & Rakim, Kool G. Rap, Common, Mos Def, NorthEast Groovers, Frontlynaz, Earth, Wind & Fire, Tye Tribbette and G.A., SoundCheck...and many others.