Ellie Goulding, born on December 30, 1986, in Hereford, England, is a celebrated singer-songwriter and activist known for her ethereal voice and impactful lyrics. Raised in Lyonshall, she began her musical journey at the tender age of 15, crafting songs that would eventually lead her to the forefront of the music industry. In 2009, she released her debut single 'Under the Sheets' through Neon Gold Records, marking the beginning of a remarkable career.
Her debut studio album, 'Lights', released in 2010, soared to No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart and was later reissued as 'Bright Lights', featuring hit singles such as 'Your Song', 'Starry Eyed', and 'Lights'. Goulding's follow-up album, 'Halcyon', released in 2012, included the chart-topping single 'Burn', solidifying her status as a leading artist. Collaborations with DJ Calvin Harris on tracks like 'I Need Your Love' and 'Outside' further showcased her versatility.
After a brief hiatus from 2016 to 2020, during which she faced personal challenges, Goulding returned with her fourth studio album, 'Brightest Blue', which also topped the UK Albums Chart. The album featured popular singles like 'Close to Me' and 'Hate Me'. In 2023, she released her fifth studio album, 'Higher Than Heaven', which debuted at No. 1, making her the British female artist with the most number-one albums in UK history, tying with Adele.
Throughout her career, Goulding has received numerous accolades, including two Brit Awards and two Grammy nominations. She has sold over twenty-seven million albums and two hundred sixteen million singles worldwide, amassing an impressive forty-three billion streams. Recognized for her contributions to music and environmental activism, she was honored with the Impact Award by Time 100 and a Decade Award by the Variety Hitmakers Awards.