Tony Melendez
On September 15, 1987 Tony played his guitar for Pope John Paul II in Los Angeles. (He celebrates his 20th anniversary of that performance this year.) Born without arms, he performed a touching song entitled "Never Be The Same." When the Pope approached him from the stage to kiss him in appreciation, it seemed to reflect the sentiments of the entire country. "Never Be the Same" was an appropriate song, for those few moments changed 25 year old Tony's life and brought his unrestrained abilities as a guitarist into national attention. It seems to be a fitting place for a man who has spent his life putting personal confidence above his handicap.
Since then Tony has traveled across the United States and sixteen foreign countries, making countless television appearances, including The Today Show, Good Morning America, Geraldo, CBS This Morning, The Late Show with Arsenio Hall, 700 Club, Robert Schuller, and prime-time network specials for Variety Clubs and Very Special Arts. A highly talented composer and musician, Tony recorded his first album in 1989, a collection of contemporary Christian songs entitled, "Never Be the Same", which resulted in nominations for Best New Artist of the Year from Cashbox Magazine and the Gospel Music Association.
Tony was with us 2 years ago and has been at the top of the list of speakers and musicians requested. What an awesome talent!
http://www.tonymelendez.com or do an internet search – there are tons of sites with information on and music of Tony Melendez.