Estelle | |
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![]() Estelle in 2008 | |
Born | Estelle Fanta Swaray 18 January 1980 London, England |
Nationality | British |
Occupations | |
Years active | 2004–present |
Musical career | |
Genres | |
Labels | |
Member of | Black Jays |
Website | estelledarlings |
Estelle Fanta Swaray, known by her mononym Estelle (born 18 January 1980)[3] is an British singer-songwriter, rapper and actress. She was born in Hammersmith, London, England.[3]
In 2004, two of Estelle's singles made it into the charts. These were "1980" and "Free". She also won a MOBO Award for "Best Newcomer".[4] The videos to both of her songs were directed by Andy Hylton.[5] "Free" was written by Estelle. It was produced by Jimmy Hogarth. Her first album,The 18th Day, reached number 35 in the UK Albums Chart.[6]
In 2008, Estelle worked with rapper/producer Kanye West on her song "American Boy". This song reached the top 10 in many countries. It was number one on the UK Singles Chart[6][7] and in Belgium[8] and Israel. The song won many awards. These included a Grammy Award for best Rap / collaboration. The song was also nominated for the Grammy for "Song of the Year". "American Boy" reached number 7 on Rolling Stone's list of the 100 Best Songs of 2008.[9] Her album Shine was released after the single. It was on the albums chart in most countries. It was number 6 in the UK.[6] Estelle also released a new single with rapper Busta Rhymes. It is called "World Go Round". The single was on Rhymes' album Back on My B.S., which was released on 19 May 2009.
Estelle's third album All of Me was released on 28 February 2012 in the US.
Estelle does the voice of Garnet, one of the main characters in the cartoon Steven Universe.[10]