You chose your stage name during a reflective moment at a monastery—why did you feel drawn to reinventing your identity this way?
I wanted a name that would have impact, something memorable, recognizable, and deeply personal. ‘Andia’ actually stems from ‘Diana’ which is my real name, so in a way, it’s not a reinvention but a reflection. Choosing it at a monastery, in that quiet, introspective moment, felt like reclaiming a powerful part of myself and giving it a new life on stage.
You started singing folk music with a local ensemble before transitioning to pop— how has that early exposure shaped your vocal style and artistic expression?
It wasn’t easy, because folk and pop are completely different worlds with different audiences, expectations, and energies. The only thing that truly helped was the experience of being on stage in front of people. That gave me a sense of presence and comfort in the spotlight. But vocally and artistically, I had to start from scratch. It was a full reset, and I had to find my voice all over again.
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Sweater Ganni/Aparterre Jacket Ami Amalia
ANDIA
Academic Path vs. Artistic Calling
You studied economics and even completed a master’s degree—what inspired that choice, and how does your academic background influence your approach to the music industry?
My father was the one who encouraged me to study economics. He wanted me to have a solid profession to fall back on, just in case music didn’t work out. I can’t say it influences my artistic path much, to be honest. I’ve always been more drawn to the creative side of life than the analytical or scientific one. Thankfully, I have an amazing accountant who handles the numbers way better than I ever could—shout-out to them.
Joining DJ Project
In 2019, you became the lead singer for DJ Project. How did this experience impact your career trajectory and inform your solo work?
I like to say that was my “artistic baptism”—that’s when I really stepped into the world of pop music. The transition from folk to pop hit me hard at first. Everything felt new, and I had very little experience to lean on. It was challenging in the beginning, but after a few shows, I started to loosen up and gain confidence. That period shaped me in so many ways and gave me the stage presence I rely on today in my solo work.
Crafting ‘Pietre prețioase’
Your debut album blends emotional, intimate themes. Can you walk us through the creative process and inspiration behind this record?
I had gathered a number of songs that I really believed felt powerful and authentic. At one point, it just made sense to shape them into a full album, something that would help solidify the Andia project and give people a clearer sense of who I am as an artist.
‘Pietre prețioase’ was born out of a desire to offer more music, more honesty, more emotional depth. The creative process was very organic. Every song came from a real place, whether it was personal experience or simply a moment I connected with deeply. It felt like polishing a set of raw gems into something people could hold close.
Triumph of ‘Sfârșitul lumii’
This hit won Best Pop Song at RMA 2022 and topped Romanian charts. What do you believe made it resonate so deeply with listeners?
I consider that ‘Sfârșitul lumii’ resonated so deeply because it captured that intense, universal feeling of love that’s both beautiful and destructive—like the world could end and you’d still choose that one person. It had vulnerability, raw emotion, and a melody that stayed with people. Sometimes, a song just finds the right moment in people’s hearts, and I think that’s what happened here. It wasn’t just about the chart. It became a kind of soundtrack to how people were feeling.
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You’ve worked with artists like Guess Who, 3 Sud Est, and Deliric. Which collaboration inspired you the most creatively, and why?
Each collaboration I’ve had so far has brought something unique to the table, whether it was an artist I grew up listening to, someone I’ve admired for years, or people I feel at home with creatively. I’ve learned a lot from every experience, and I’m genuinely grateful for the inspiration and energy that each one brought into my world.
You’ve spoken openly about personal challenges and therapy. How do these experiences inform your healing journey and artistry?
Without therapy, I honestly don’t know how I would’ve handled the pressure of being in front of people, cameras, and constantly needing to show up and be present. I’m actually an introvert doing a very extroverted job, and that contrast used to feel overwhelming. On top of that, carrying emotional baggage and facing personal challenges, therapy helped me understand myself and life so much better. What once felt unknown and blurry now feels more grounded, more understood. And that clarity shows in the way I sing, connect, and exist as an artist.
Having topped charts repeatedly with recent singles like “La nevedere” and “De la Dela”, what new directions or themes are you eager to explore next in your music?
I’d love to explore musical projects that go beyond pop, something totally different, where I can still bring my vocal style and emotional signature into new territories. Whether it’s rock, folk, or something in between, I’m drawn to sounds that challenge me and allow me to express myself in new ways. I think that’s where the magic happens— when you take risks and let your voice adapt and evolve without losing its essence.
You’ve already had chart-topping success in Romania—are you interested in expanding more into international markets?
Absolutely! Now that I’ve gained more confidence in my artistry, I’d love to explore new territories and connect with international audiences. But I also believe that to do that authentically, you need to collaborate with local producers and songwriters. Every country has its own musical culture, its own rhythm, and you can’t really compete with that from the outside. Even if a Romanian artist writes in English, there’s something different about a native voice expressing their truth in their own language. So for me, it’s about blending worlds with respect and intention.
Looking five years ahead, what’s one dream or milestone you hope to accomplish that you haven’t yet?
I want to be surprised by what’s to come. I believe opportunities will find their way to me because I’m open, but I don’t like putting pressure on the future. If I have an idea, I’ll explore it and let it unfold naturally. I trust the timing of things, and I prefer to stay present and let life happen rather than chase a fixed milestone. I really enjoy being chill. Hahaha.
Do you plan to release another full-length album soon, or are you more focused on singles and collaborations?
Yes, a new album is in the works and this time, it comes with a different sound. My voice has matured; it’s more grounded and defined now, simply because I’ve grown. So compared to “Pietre prețioase”, this next album will reflect a deeper, more evolved version of me. It feels like the right moment to show that growth through music.
If you could headline any major international festival, which one would it be—and why?
Tomorrowland—definitely! It was the first major festival I ever heard of, and its energy, scale, and connection to the crowd are unforgettable. It would be a dream to bring my sound to a stage like that, surrounded by people from all over the world who come together for music.
And if we’re talking about festivals in Romania, I’d be incredibly proud to perform on the main stage at Untold or Electric Castle. Both have such strong identities and amazing crowds, and it would mean a lot to represent my music at home, on stages that have hosted so many international and local legends.
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The Evening Jackets
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Umbrella
Davide White Tank Novoa Floral Jacket
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