Ella Mai is a British singer and songwriter known for her smooth, soulful voice and contemporary take on R&B. Born on November 3, 1994, in London, England, Ella Mai Howell was exposed to a wide array of musical influences from an early age, thanks to her Jamaican and Irish heritage and her mother's love for jazz music. She moved to New York City during her teenage years to attend a performing arts high school, where she honed her musical skills. Ella Mai first gained attention in 2014 by posting covers of popular songs on Instagram, which showcased her vocal talent and knack for interpreting contemporary hits. This exposure eventually led her to audition for the 11th season of *The X Factor* UK as part of a girl group named Arize, though the group did not advance past the initial stages of the competition.
Ella Mai's big break came in 2016 when she was discovered by DJ Mustard on Instagram, leading to a record deal with his label 10 Summers Records. She released a trilogy of EPs—*Time* (2016), *Change* (2016), and *Ready* (2017)—that gradually built her reputation as a promising new voice in R&B. It was her breakout single "Boo’d Up" from the *Ready* EP that catapulted her to international fame in 2018. The song, characterized by its catchy melody and relatable lyrics about infatuation and young love, became a viral hit and climbed to the top of the charts, earning Ella Mai her first Grammy Award for Best R&B Song. "Boo’d Up" was praised for its nostalgic 90s R&B vibe mixed with modern production, a combination that resonated widely with listeners.
Following the success of "Boo’d Up," Ella Mai released her self-titled debut album in 2018, which featured additional hits like "Trip" and collaborations with artists such as John Legend and H.E.R. The album was well-received, showcasing her ability to blend classic R&B influences with contemporary sounds, and was noted for its lush production and the maturity of Mai's vocal performances. Her success marked a resurgence of traditional R&B in the mainstream, and she was credited with helping to bring the genre back to prominence in the late 2010s. Ella Mai’s distinctive voice, characterized by its warm, rich tones and effortless delivery, set her apart as a standout artist in a crowded field.
Beyond her debut album, Ella Mai has continued to build on her success, performing at major award shows, embarking on international tours, and collaborating with other high-profile artists. She has been recognized with numerous awards and nominations, including American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and BET Awards, cementing her status as one of the leading voices in contemporary R&B. Known for her relatable lyrics, emotive singing, and dedication to her craft, Ella Mai has established herself as a key figure in the genre's ongoing evolution, with a promising future that continues to unfold with each new release.
