I‘m Melia, an indie rock artist from Rochester, NY. I’m known for my songwriting and guitar playing. My journey began after seeing Green Day live during their American Idiot tour, sparking my passion for music. Despite my parents making me wait to take guitar lessons, I practiced tirelessly and quickly formed my first band. A memorable moment was when Billie Joe Armstrong invited me to perform Jesus of Suburbia onstage with Green Day, which fueled my love for rock even more.
I’ve had several releases, including Soundproof Walls and Skeletal Remains, for which I’ve won numerous Indie Awards, and my latest album, Feral, which has also been well received. I’ve had the honor of collaborating with Kevin Killen and recording at Dreamland Recording Studio in Woodstock, NY.
I’ve also been lucky to share the stage with bands like The Offspring, Eve 6, Our Lady Peace, and Halestorm, among others. With endorsements from brands like Engl Amps and PRS Guitars, I continue to create music that blends guitar-driven rock with introspective lyrics, and I’m grateful to be part of this amazing indie rock scene.
What is your definition of tone, and how has it changed over the years?
My definition of tone would be the shape and warmth of a sound. My tone has changed through the years as I’ve really locked in my sound, which takes time. It also was affected by the access to certain equipment and guitars, the ease of how a guitar can be played compared to different brands, etc. I really have just done a lot of trial and error.
Which guitars, amps, and pedals are you currently using and why?
Guitars: PRS S2 Custom 24 and PRS CE 24 are my main guitars. I also use my Flying V with EMG 81/85 Purple Pickups and my Purple Widow Gibson Les Paul Custom.
Amp: ENGL Powerball II
Pedals: Z-9 ENGL Footswitch; Peterson Strobe Tuner; Morley Wah Pedal – Bad Horsie 20/20; EarthQuaker Devices – Afterneath, Dispatch Master, Space Spiral; and Walrus Audio – Lore Reverse Soundscape Generator
What about strings?
GHS Boomers. Gauge depends on what kind of tuning I am using on the guitar, but I go as light as 10s and as heavy as 12s.
Are there certain recording techniques you prefer in the studio?
I can’t think of any specific techniques. I just try to play from my soul and do my best not to get too perfectionistic.
How do you keep your sound consistent onstage?
It’s not too hard because my music is pretty organic, and for energy reasons, we record together as a band. I do add an additional guitarist to help cover the guitar layers I create and to harmonize with me vocally. Other than that, I save my settings and just try to become really good at emulating it as closely as I can. I think energy is so important, and the crowd really feeds off of that, so chemistry with the other musicians is really important, too.
What does your practice consist of?
I try to focus on a lot of the rudiments and then challenge myself with a new song or find a way to tap through classical pieces. I spend a lot of time writing and recording as well.
Favorite guitar riff or lick that inspired you to play guitar?
I think my favorite is “Ocean” by Led Zeppelin.
What is your advice for young women who hope to work in the music industry?
My advice would be to always trust your gut, follow your heart, and don’t let anyone’s opinions get in the way of what you want to achieve.
Connect with MELIA
Website: meliarocks.com
Facebook: Melia (Verified) | Youtube: @Meliarocks | Instagram: @Meliarocks
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