Estelle

Estelle Fanta Swaray, known mononymously as Estelle, is a British singer, songwriter, rapper, actress, and record producer whose career has spanned more than two decades and crossed multiple musical genres. Born on 18 January 1980 in the London borough of Hammersmith, she grew up in a multicultural household that blended Caribbean roots with British urban culture, an influence that later shaped her distinctive vocal style and lyrical themes. She first gained public attention in the early 2000s by appearing on mixtapes and collaborating with underground UK hip‑hop artists, but her breakthrough came in 2004 with the release of her debut album "The 22 Tracks of ..." which showcased her ability to meld soulful singing with confident rap verses. The worldwide hit single “American Boy” featuring Kanye West, released in 2008, propelled her onto international charts, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration and cementing her status as a transatlantic crossover star. Throughout her career, Estelle has worked with a diverse roster of collaborators, including will.i.am, John Legend, and Rick Ross, demonstrating her versatility across R&B, pop, reggae‑fusion, and hip‑hop sounds. Beyond music, she has pursued acting, appearing in films such as Beyond the Lights and television series like The Night Is Live, where she displayed a natural on‑screen charisma that expanded her artistic repertoire. Her philanthropic efforts are equally notable; she has supported initiatives focused on youth empowerment, education, and mental health, often using her platform to raise awareness for social issues affecting marginalized communities. In recent years, Estelle continues to release new material, experiment with electronic production, and mentor emerging artists, proving that her creative drive remains as vibrant as ever. The combination of her powerful vocals, sharp lyricism, and commitment to cultural advocacy makes Estelle a defining figure in contemporary music and a role model for aspiring performers worldwide.