Basic Information:
Name: Elizabeth Woolridge Grant
Date of Birth: June 21, 1985
Nationality: American
Profession: Singer, songwriter, record producer, poet, and music video director.
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Biography:
Elizabeth Woolridge Grant, most famously known as Lana Del Rey, is an American singer-songwriter celebrated for her melancholic, cinematic style of music, which often explores themes of tragic romance, glamour, and Americana. Born and raised in New York, she began her musical journey in her late teens, performing in nightclubs and experimenting with various musical styles under different monikers before landing on Lana Del Rey. Her childhood in Lake Placid, New York, contrasted with the more urban landscape she would later inhabit, laying the foundation for the themes of nostalgia and idealism found in her work.
She had a challenging journey to fame. She was under contract with an independent label at age 20 but had to fight to be released from it. She moved to the United Kingdom and released a 3-track digital EP in 2008, after which she would release her debut album Lana Del Ray a.k.a. Lizzy Grant. Then, she had a breakthrough moment in 2011 when her self-made music video for "Video Games" went viral. This online buzz propelled her into the mainstream and she then released "Born to Die" in 2012, marking her commercial breakthrough. The album was polarizing, lauded by some for its romantic and melancholic themes, and criticized by others for its perceived glamorization of a certain lifestyle.
She pushed boundaries and cultivated a devoted following throughout her career by consistently releasing albums that challenge the conventional pop and rock formulas, featuring her signature vocals and evocative lyrics. Del Rey continues to release music and also has been expanding into other creative areas such as poetry. She has been one of the most defining artists of the last decade. Her influence can be seen in both fashion and music.
Career Timeline:
2005: Begins performing in clubs and recording under various names.
2008: Releases "Kill Kill" EP as Lizzy Grant Lana Del Rey