Melissa Marielle Wins 2026 Young Artist Award for Outstanding Music Vocalist
San Jose Teen Singer-Songwriter Receives Second Young Artist Award at 47th Annual Ceremony in Hollywood
8/16/20263 min read
SAN JOSE, CA - September 2026 - San Jose, California singer-songwriter and performer Melissa Marielle has been honored with a 2026 Young Artist Award for Outstanding Vocalist, recognizing her vocal artistry and her original song “Under a Mistletoe.” The award was entered during the 47th Annual Young Artist Academy Awards, held August 16, 2026, at the historic Directors Guild of America in Hollywood, California. The recognition marks Melissa's second Young Artist Award, following her first award in 2024.
The evening was especially memorable for Melissa as the award category was presented by Terry Crews, who hosted the ceremony and personally presented Melissa with her award. “I was so excited and grateful to receive this award, especially from Terry Crews,” said Melissa Marielle. “Being recognized by the Young Artist Academy and receiving this honor in Hollywood means so much to me. I am very thankful to my family, my vocal coach and mentor Grace Kinstler, the Young Artist Academy, and everyone who continues to support my music and my journey.”
Melissa was recognized for her overall vocal work associated with her original holiday song “Under a Mistletoe,” which showcases her love of expressive vocals, Jazz influences, and seasonal music. Although Melissa did not perform during the awards ceremony itself, she took the stage the previous evening at the Pre-Award Party, where she performed her original song “Fly Away” and Whitney Houston's “I'm Your Baby Tonight.”
The 2026 Young Artist Academy Awards also featured a special recognition for Disney Legend Idina Menzel, who received the prestigious Special Merit Award: Impact on Youth. The Young Artist Academy celebrates exceptional achievements by young performers in film, television, streaming, theater, music, and digital media, while also recognizing established artists whose work inspires the next generation.
Over the years, Young Artist Awards have recognized many performers who went on to prominent careers in entertainment, including Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez, Hilary Duff, Mario Lopez, Drew Barrymore, and Winona Ryder.
For Melissa, the award comes during an exciting period of growth. The 17-year-old singer-songwriter recently performed the National Anthem for the San Jose Earthquakes at Levi's Stadium on September 19, 2026, adding another major Bay Area performance to her growing résumé.
Melissa is also preparing for her next chapter as an artist. Her latest original single, “Fly Away,” was released August 14, 2026, and is available on all major streaming platforms. The Pop/R&B song explores the pressure to fit in and the importance of embracing who you are. An official music video is available on YouTube.
Looking ahead, Melissa is preparing new music and several upcoming live performances. She will perform at the “Black and Gold” Gala in San Jose this November and will present a Christmas concert at Christmas in the Park in December. She is also excited to take on the role of The Witch in an upcoming production of Into the Woods, with performance dates to be announced.
Melissa credits her family and longtime mentor, vocal coach, and friend Grace Kinstler, for the support and guidance that have helped her grow as a vocalist and songwriter.
About Melissa Marielle
Melissa Marielle is a San Francisco Bay Area based singer-songwriter and performer whose music and performances span Pop, R&B, Jazz, and Musical Theater. She began singing at age four and started formal vocal training at age ten. Her performance experience includes major sporting events, concerts, television, professional entertainment productions, and musical theater.
Melissa has performed the National Anthem at major Bay Area sporting events, including Levi's Stadium, and has appeared as a lead performer with the award-winning Le Petit Cirque. Her musical theater credits include Catherine Parr in SIX the Musical and Sarah Brown in Guys and Dolls.
Now a high school senior, Melissa is continuing to develop her career as a recording artist while pursuing new opportunities in music, live performance, television, and musical theater.
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