Iggy Azalea

Musical Style

Born Amethyst Amelia Kelly, but better known by her stage name, Iggy Azalea, this Australian-born rapper, singer, and songwriter brings a unique flavor to the hip-hop scene. Her musical style is a fusion of pop, electronic and southern hip-hop. She burst onto the scene with her debut mixtape, "Ignorant Art" and quickly built a fan base with her bold lyrics and audacious persona. Her songs are often characterized by catchy hooks, and audacious beats, which brought a fresh and daring touch to the genre. Her debut studio album ‘The New Classic’ showcased her ability to craft catchy melodies and write engaging lyrics, which are often semi-autobiographical, reflecting her personal journey of chasing dreams and overcoming obstacles.

Career Highlights

Her rise to fame was meteoric as she became the first non-American female rapper to reach the top of the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. Her single "Fancy," featuring Charli XCX, was a massive hit, peaking at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, making her only the fourth solo female rapper ever to top the chart. Her debut album, ‘The New Classic,’ went on to become a top-five entry on the Billboard 200 and earned her two Grammy Award nominations, including Best Rap Album. In 2014, she scored another hit with "Black Widow," featuring Rita Ora, which reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100. Her success continued with the release of her second album ‘In My Defense’, which further cemented her as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.

Cultural Impact

Despite facing criticism and controversy, she used them as fuel to continuously evolve and redefine her musical style, proving that she is more than just a one-hit-wonder. Her global popularity has helped to break down barriers in a genre traditionally dominated by American artists, inspiring and paving the way for other non-American artists to make their mark. She has inadvertently become a symbol of determination and resilience, encouraging many to break norms and chase their dreams, irrespective of their backgrounds. Her influence extends beyond music, as she’s also known for her bold fashion choices and has had a significant impact on the fashion industry, often seen setting trends. Her journey and success serve as a testament to her tenacity and prove that with hard work and determination, it is possible to overcome stereotypes and succeed in a foreign land.