Never Would Have Made It

When it comes to Hollywood success stories none are more compelling than the journey of Tyler Perry from homelessness to top-grossing playwright and movie star. Melvin Childs, Executive Producer of Tyler Perry’s first national tour ‘I Know I’ve Been Changed’ takes readers behind the velvet rope and details how Tyler Perry went from obscurity to a household name. In Never Would Have Made It: The Rise of Tyler Perry, the Most Powerful Entertainer in Black America And What It Really Took To Get Him There, (Touch 1 Media, LLC., January 2012; Hard Cover $24.99, E-Book $9.99) Childs shares the true story of being a mentor, producer and friend to Tyler Perry he discovered in a state of doubt and disappointment, struggling for acceptance before small church audiences. But Childs believed in the playwright and foresaw his success. Together they reinvented the format creating the framework for the Tyler Perry brand, today a multi-million dollar enterprise. In a riveting account of secret back room deals, illicit cash; backstabbing and double-dealing, the book is a portrait of human nature, big business, betrayal and ultimately finding forgiveness. A must read for Tyler Perry fans Never Would Have Made It is an inspirational story about using love and faith to overcome deceit and failure. The book’s uplifting message will resonate with those who have not received their due after sacrificing to contribute to the success of others.

When it comes to self-made Hollywood success stories none is more compelling than the journey of Playwright/Actor Tyler Perry from homelessness to top-grossing movie star. Melvin Childs, Executive Producer of Tyler Perry’s first national tour ‘I Know I’ve Been Changed’ takes off the gloves and details the true behind-the-scenes story of how Tyler Perry went from being an anonymous, struggling playwright to a household name. In the true story of Never Would Have Made It: The Rise of Tyler Perry, the Most Powerful Entertainer in Black America And What It Really Took To Get Him There, (Touch 1 Media, LLC., January 2012; Hard Cover $24.99, E-Book $9.99)Childs shares his personal account of being a mentor, producer and friend to Tyler Perry and how his first two touring efforts ended in failure. Childs discovered Perry in a state of doubt, disappointment and his struggle for acceptance playing on the “chitlin circuit” in small churches to 50 people or less. But Childs believed in the charismatic playwright and foresaw his future success. Together they reinvented the format creating the framework for the Tyler Perry Hollywood brand, today a multi-million dollar enterprise. In a riveting account of secret back room deals, illicit cash; backstabbing and double-dealing, the book is a portrait of human nature, big business, betrayal and ultimately finding forgiveness. A must read for Tyler Perry fans Never Would Have Made It is an inspirational story about using love and faith to overcome deceit and failure. Never Would Have Made it has an uplifting message about the power of forgiveness that will resonate with readers who are Tyler Perry fans or hurt by someone you believe in.

Over the last 15 years few individuals in the entertainment industry have been more innovative and resourceful than former Radio Account Executive and Veteran Producer Melvin Childs. Known for his critical eye for spotting new talent Childs has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to launch the careers of many struggling artists as a successful promoter based in the Mid-West. To some like legendary Playwright/Actor Tyler Perry, Childs played a crucial role in helping their careers reach the next level. Others consider him to be a great promoter booking headlining acts around the country. The Oklahoma City native began his career as a radio-advertising salesman. By chance he was introduced to the playwright and actor Tyler Perry. It was Childs’ willingness to gamble on the unknown playwright that led to Perry’s first breakout hit play: 'I Know I've Been Changed.' In his recently released first book, Never Would Have Made It: The Rise of Tyler Perry, the Most Powerful Entertainer in Black America And What It Really Took To Get Him There (Touch 1 Media, LLC., January 2012; Hard Cover $24.99, E-Book $9.99). Childs sets the record straight chronicling his personal relationship with Perry and how he took big risks to raise money to save the play and help the then struggling playwright. Childs served as executive producer of Perry’s first successful national tour, which ultimately contributed to Perry’s emerging as one of Hollywood’s top stars. Today, Childs is a successful promoter in his native Oklahoma City, Oklahoma where he has booked some of the largest touring acts in the country at local venues and concert arenas. He attended the University of Central Oklahoma and is the proud father of two boys.