Melanie graduated from Florida State University where she received her master's degree in music education. Following graduation, Melanie spent a few years as a karaoke disc jockey, as well as performing at area hotels as a dining room singer.  Soon thereafter, Melanie began traveling across the United States with a Las Vegas showband "Passion." With "Passion," she sang, danced, played keyboards, and led large crowds in high energy audience participation activities in Las Vegas, Biloxi, Kansas City, Denver, and more.  With "Passion" she also opened for Ray Charles. A few years later was when she began her DJ business, Evening Star.