Recognition of Entertainer James Melton: A Marion County Legacy

OCALA, Fla. (WCJB) – One of the most popular voices in the country grew up in Marion County, but despite his achievements, he was only recently recognized there.

James Melton, a tenor singer from Citra, was honored Wednesday with a plaque outside the Marion Theater. He is only the fifth star to receive one.

Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano read a proclamation before the plaque was unveiled, leaving a permanent reminder of Melton’s legacy in the county.

“Melton was a megastar in his heyday in the 1930s and 1940s, with notable success in recording, stage, film and television, bringing pride and recognition to his hometown of Ocala,” he said.

Melton graduated from Ocala High School and rose to fame, earning two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He also dabbled in film, starring Stars over Broadwayamong other films.

Journalist Brad Rogers wrote a piece about Melton, realizing the city was not honoring him. It caught the attention of David Stafford and Carswell Ponder, who said they wanted to have something made for him.

“As far as Marion County is concerned, he is probably the most celebrated and most successful to ever come out of Marion County,” Rogers said. “He was a really big deal in his day and he’s kind of forgotten because it was so long ago.”

In addition to the unveiling, guests were invited inside to watch his film, listen to his music and take a copy home. James Melton, the tenor of his time by Melton’s daughter, Margo Melton Nutt.

With only five names outside the theater, it’s an exclusive club to be a part of – honoring Melton’s legacy not only in Marion County, but around the world.

Click here to subscribe to our newsletter.