Mel Stitzel (January 9, 1902 – December 31, 1952) was a German-born pianist renowned for his contributions to early jazz music in America. He is best remembered for his work with the New Orleans Rhythm Kings (NORK), a pioneering jazz band of the early 1920s. The band, initially known as the Friar's Society Orchestra, played at Chicago's Friar's Inn and later became influential in the jazz scene. Stitzel joined the group alongside prominent members like cornetist Paul Mares, trombonist George Brunies, and clarinetist Leon Roppolo. The NORK was noted for its historic multi-racial recording session with Jelly Roll Morton, marking one of the first such collaborations in jazz history.

Stitzel co-wrote several notable jazz standards, including "Tin Roof Blues," which became a significant hit and was later adapted into "Make Love to Me," a million-seller for Jo Stafford in 1954. He also co-wrote "Doodle Doo Doo" with Art Kassel in 1924 and "Bittersweet" with Ben Pollack. After the disbandment of the Rhythm Kings in 1925, Stitzel continued his musical career as an arranger and pianist throughout the 1930s and 1940s, leading his own combo and performing at venues like Chicago's Green Mill Ballroom.

Despite his death in 1952, Stitzel's legacy endures through his compositions and recordings, which remain influential in the jazz genre. His work with the New Orleans Rhythm Kings and other ensembles has left a lasting impact on the development of jazz music.