There is a way that seems right to man, but the end thereof is death. To find your purpose in this life can at times seem vigorous and tiresome, but being led by the Holy Spirit makes the journey all the more desirous and fulfilling. That’s how it is explained in the voice of Melinda Pickett, a new gospel artist from Sacramento, CA originally from New Jersey who has found her purpose in ministering to others through music. Melinda was born and raised in Bridgeton, NJ to Franklin and Mary Pickett and she began singing at the early age of 9. She began singing in her church youth choir and quickly became one of the lead singers for the morning services. Her pastor would always encourage her to sing a solo before he preached because he knew then of her gift from God to minister to the people. All throughout middle and high school, Melinda would sing solos for school programs and special events, but she never imagined that God would place a calling on her life for ministry. “I just loved to sing. Whenever, wherever, but it was always Gospel music in my heart. I didn’t want to and would not sing anything else.” She explains. “I want to do what God has called me to. My music, I feel, is different because I write from my experiences both naturally and spiritually. I believe this is profitable to the believer because it may give light to situations that others may have. However, at the end of every note, verse, or hook, I want the listener to be ministered to in some way.” She says. Melinda has shared and continues to share in ministry with many gospel artists. Some have included Kim Burrell, Hezekiah Walker, John P. Kee, Richard Smallwood, CeCe Winans, Marvin Winans and Pastor Donnie McClurkin. Melinda has also completed European tours spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ through music. She’s toured Switzerland, Germany, Paris, Geneva and London.“The experience in Europe was absolutely amazing. I was grateful to share my faith and my salvation with people from other countries. They were truly sincere and appreciative to receive the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the form of Gospel music.” Just in 2005, Melinda has also traveled to Lagos, Nigeria (Africa) and ministered “Africa changed my life! The ministry was awesome and I was able to see God move like never before!” This gives the listener a glimpse into my past for some to understand where I am at right now. This story goes from appreciation, disobedience, repentance, and then victory and ministry. I think it shows what I want to do in ministry. I want people to know that God is in every situation and He is there regardless of how it seems. Each song has meaning and was written to minister to someone else and myself as well!” With so many wonderful aspects of her life going full blast, Melinda stays busy at her local church, This is Pentecost Fellowship in Sacramento, CA. Her Pastor is Elect Lady Tamara BennettI addition to this, Melinda is also a High School teacher where she teaches Mathematics and Physical Science. She is a graduate of Rutgers University-New Brunswick, NJ and is currently a graduate student preparing to receive her Master’s Degree in Special Education. “To God be the glory. This is not about me, but for His glory. So my answer is simply, YES LORD!”