Melanie Adia Sarapa is a neo-soul rock violinist, singer and songwriter from Chicago whose groundbreaking live improvisational skills put her in a category of her own in the growing DJ violin genre.
A prodigy since three and a half years old, Adia’s classical studies culminated with a Master of Music in performance from DePaul School of Music. Late in her studies Adia embarked on a journey far removed from her classical roots when she began studying her new found passion – blues and rock guitar legends such as B.B. King, Eric Clapton, Slash and Jimi Hendrix to name a few. Adia went beyond absorbing their tricks and techniques, ultimately connecting with the visceral power behind their music.
It is precisely this innovative, guitar-sounding energy from her electric fiddle that makes Adia a truly unique violinist in the world, winning the 2014 Judges’ Selection for the Experience Hendrix Tour and the 2013 Steve Vai Best in Shred competition. Adia’s DJ violin sets combine dance and lounge DJ music with her electrifying classical, soulful and jazzy riffs. The result is a virtuosic performance that is both highly entertaining and connects with the audience on a deep emotional level.
In addition to DJ violin Adia is also the founder and front woman of the hot new classical crossover group Electric 5, as well as the indie rock band Adia & The 7 Eyes. She was a regular performer on Fox’s hit music series Empire, and has performed with numerous top artists such as Lauryn Hill, Patti LaBelle, Jennifer Hudson, Chance the Rapper, Shirley Caesar, Jennifer Holiday, Dionne Warwick and Yolanda Adams among others.