Roanoke’s own singer/songwriter Macklin Mosley opening

By Shawn Nowlin

In November 2001, one of the most popular songs in the country was “Nothing in this world” by Keke Wyatt. Featured on Wyatt’s debut album Soul Sista, the song has since been certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America.

When Wyatt was winning awards for her first LP, Macklyn Mosley, a Roanoke native and talented musician himself was a student at Patrick Henry High School. This Saturday, Mosley will be opening for Wyatt, who will be performing at the Tajzmah’s Lounge on Church Avenue at 8 p.m. 

Mosley stated on his Facebook page, “Y’all!!! It’s super wild and humbling that I’m even making an announcement like this! I’m hyped to be opening for Keke Wyatt. Yep, you heard right! Keke Wyatt! God is wild for this one. He’s always just being kind when you least expect it. I’m still blown away.”

Like Mosley, Jaime Wilkinson has been a fan of Wyatt’s talent for years. Asked what she appreciates most about the Soul Train Lady Awards nominee, Wilkinson said, “Despite the many setbacks and difficulties she has endured, I’ve never heard her say she is a victim. Her resiliency is something that I have greatly admired from a distance. It’s often said that music is the soundtrack to life. In this case, many of Keke’s songs speak directly to my soul. I can’t wait to see her perform live this weekend.” 

A mother to 11 children, Wyatt has openly discussed the ups and downs of her three marriages in her music. A survivor herself, Wyatt is a national spokesperson for the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Describing what she experienced in previous relationships, she has written, “when the drama starts to hit the fan, raise your voice and not your hand, you can yell, scream and even blow off steam, but don’t put your hands on me.” 

Wyatt and Mosley have more in common than one may think. Known for meticulously diving deep into their songs, both musicians use their various social media platforms to promote their music and have reaped the benefits of their hard work.

A lot has changed since Mosley dropped his debut album, ‘Love + Life’, last year. Three years prior, his EP, ‘Until Tomorrow’, hit music streaming services. Over the last 15 months, he has worked with all kinds of talented artists and creatives. Although he has performed in front of audiences of all sizes before, Mosley says he can’t put into words just how excited he is to open for Keke Wyatt this weekend. 

Additional information about both artists can be found at https://macklyn.bandcamp.com and songkick.com, respectively.