Damien Escobar's 'Soulful' Violin Gives Classical Music A Hip-Hop Flair

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- It's not every day that a classically-trained violinist sells out stadiums -- but that's exactly the case when it comes to one passionate Queens musician.

Damien Escobar, of Jamacia, Queens, says he fell in love with the violin when he was only a child, CBS2's Alex Denis reported.

"I knew it when I first laid eyes on it. I call it love at first note. I fell in love," Escobar said. "I didn't realize I was different until I was walking down the block at 9 years old banging my head to Bach."

The young musician was welcomed to the prestigious Juilliard School of Music when he was only 10 years old and graduated several years later as a professional violinist. Now, he plays for packed stadiums alongside icons like Justin Bieber, Drake and the Jonas Brothers.

Though he's seen his share of fame, it's not enough for Escobar, who has become known as the 'soulful' artist -- covering hit tracks like Adele's "Hello" and Prince's "Purple Rain."

Escobar describes his style as 'soulful' violin -- blending classical music with hip-hop and R&B influences. He pairs his passion for classical arpeggios with the driving heart of bass -- driving crowds wild with the flawless fusion.

"I feel like the Grammys will be forced to show our category during a live telecast," Escobar said.

Escobar is now focused on giving back, teaching and providing violins to local schools so that other children can benefit from the four strings that saved him.

The musician will be playing live Saturday night at the Highline Ballroom on West 16th Street, and will be returning to New York City for another performance in December.

His newest album drops this summer.