Michelle Meldrum American hard rock guitarist Date of Birth: 28.09.1968 Country: USA

Biography of Michelle Meldrum

Michelle Meldrum was an American hard rock guitarist, best known for her membership in the bands 'Phantom Blue' and 'Meldrum'. She was born in Detroit, Michigan, into a creative family. Among her relatives were actors and musicians, and Michelle was the great-niece of the famous writer and philosopher Elbert Hubbard. When she was thirteen, her family moved to Los Angeles, California. At the age of fourteen, Michelle became interested in playing the guitar. Her early influences as a musician were Ulrich Roth and Michael Schenker, and she enjoyed listening to music such as the album 'Virgin Killer' by the band 'Scorpions' released in 1976.

Michelle began her music career by forming the thrash metal band 'Wargod', which included future drummer Gene Hoglan, known for his work with bands like 'Dark Angel', 'Death', and 'Strapping Young Lad'. Her next project was the formation of the all-female heavy metal band 'Phantom Blue', in which she played the role of lead guitarist. Shortly after, 'Phantom Blue' released their self-titled debut album under the American record label 'Shrapnel Records' (their music was also handled by 'Roadrunner Records' in Europe and Japan, with the main contract signed with 'Geffen Records'). The band embarked on a successful worldwide concert tour.

In 1995, Michelle married European guitarist John Norum, and they moved to Sweden where they formed the multinational rock band 'Meldrum'. The band combined the powerful vocals of frontwoman Moa Holmsten, aggressive melodic lyrics, brain-crushing guitar riffs, and a rhythm section built on explosive transitions, creating a unique style that propelled 'Meldrum' to fame. In 2005, the band toured for three months as special guests of 'Black Label Society' led by Zakk Wylde, performing to sold-out crowds in Europe and the USA. In the fall of the same year, 'Meldrum' joined 'Motorhead' on their celebratory concert tour marking the band's thirtieth anniversary, playing shows across Europe. Michelle also performed with Linda McDonald, her former bandmate from 'Phantom Blue', and 'The Iron Maidens' at various concerts in late 2006.

On May 18, 2008, Michelle Meldrum fell into a coma due to complications from a brain hemorrhage. She passed away on May 21 due to the growth of a cyst in her brain, which disrupted oxygen supply and caused bleeding. Michelle was only thirty-nine years old at the time of her death. She was survived by her parents, husband John Norum, and son Jake Thomas. On May 26, 2009, a dedication to Michelle Meldrum's memory was performed at the 'Whisky A Go Go' concert in Hollywood. Prior to her death, Michelle had completed work on a new album, and the remaining members of 'Meldrum' planned to release it in 2009 in her honor. Together with several former members of 'Phantom Blue', 'Meldrum' participated in a charity concert in Hollywood on May 26, 2009. Throughout her life, Michelle Meldrum contributed to the creation of ten albums, including two with 'Wargod', one with 'Post Mortem', four with 'Phantom Blue', and three with 'Meldrum'.