A powerful voice emerged from London, blending soul, hip-hop, and R&B into a sound entirely its own. The artist known as Ella Eyre was born in April 1994, bringing a unique energy to the music scene.
Her career ignited with the Rudimental collaboration “Waiting All Night.” The track shot to number one and won a Brit Award, announcing a major new talent. This success proved she was more than a fleeting sensation.
Her debut album, “Feline,” landed at number four on the UK charts. It confirmed her ability to craft a complete musical statement. She also expanded her creative reach with roles in films like “Vampire Academy” and “Pitch Perfect 3.”
Looking ahead, anticipation builds for her 2025 project, “Everything, In Time.” This upcoming release marks a new chapter of artistic independence. Her journey is one of authentic craft and a refusal to follow predictable paths.
Early Life and Breakthrough Moments
The journey to musical stardom began with an unexpected foundation in competitive athletics and family sacrifice.
Background and Early Influences
Ella McMahon grew up in West London with her Maltese mother, a cake designer. Her Jamaican father remained abroad due to economic constraints. This separation taught her about distance and sacrifice from childhood.
She often clarifies that her education came through opportunity, not privilege. A swimming scholarship made private school possible when family finances couldn’t.
From Competitive Swimming to Singing
Before music, she trained as a competitive swimmer. The discipline from athletics would later serve her artistic career. She earned a scholarship to Millfield School through swimming talent.
Later at the BRIT School, she studied musical theater. A vocal coach discovered her raw talent in 2011. This connection led to management and industry opportunities.
By eighteen, Ella Eyre had publishing and record deals. Her breakthrough came with Rudimental’s “Waiting All Night” in 2013. The track topped the UK Singles Chart, marking her explosive debut.
This collaboration won the 2014 Brit Award for British Single. It proved that preparation meets opportunity creates success. The athlete’s discipline had found its musical expression.
Musical Journey and Upcoming Projects
From modest EP beginnings to chart-topping collaborations, her career trajectory reflects consistent artistic growth. The industry recognized her potential early with notable award nominations.
Debut Album Feline and Hit Singles
Her first EP “Deeper” arrived in late 2013, establishing her as more than a featured voice. Solo singles like “If I Go” and “Comeback” cracked the top twenty, building steady momentum.
The debut album “Feline” dropped in August 2015, supported by the single “Good Times.” Production came from respected names like Wayne Hector and Ilya. The project showcased her ability to craft a complete musical statement.
A cover of “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” for the Rugby World Cup demonstrated her versatility. This cultural moment expanded her reach beyond typical music audiences.
Collaborations and Award-Winning Tracks
Collaborations became a signature strength throughout her career. “Answerphone” with Banx & Ranx and Yxng Bane peaked at number five on the UK chart in 2018.
The track “Just Got Paid” with Sigala featuring Meghan Trainor and French Montana hit number eleven. These successful partnerships proved her collaborative appeal remained strong years after her breakthrough.
MOBO Awards recognized her twice—Best Newcomer in 2014 and Best Female in 2015. Her songwriting talent also shone through co-writing credits like Sigma’s number one hit “Changing.”
Moving to Island Records in 2019 brought new creative directions. The 2020 “Quarter Life Crisis” EP captured personal reflection during global uncertainty.
Ella Eyre’s Impact in the Music Scene
Beyond chart positions and award nominations, genuine impact manifests through authentic creative expression. Her influence extends across musical boundaries and live experiences.
Artistic Style and Musical Inspirations
Her sound draws from diverse sources. Lauryn Hill’s raw honesty blends with Etta James’ soulful depth.
Basement Jaxx’s electronic experimentation meets Hans Zimmer’s cinematic scope. This fusion creates music that refuses genre boundaries.
R&B intimacy transitions seamlessly into EDM intensity. Each track maintains coherence and authentic voice.
Live Performances, Tours, and Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes
Her stage presence commands attention in diverse venues. She has supported major acts like Olly Murs and Little Mix.
The Feline Tour marked her first headlining experience. Pandemic resilience shone through her rescheduled 2021 UK Tour.
| Tour/Performance | Year | Venue Type | Notable Aspect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feline Tour | 2014-15 | Headlining | First solo tour experience |
| Summer Shout Out Tour | 2017 | Arena (supporting) | Performed with Little Mix |
| Freedom Child Tour | 2018 | Arena (supporting) | Supported The Script |
| Formula E Performance | 2023 | Racing event | Adapted to non-traditional venue |
Behind the scenes, she embraces transparency. During the “New Me” video shoot, health challenges emerged.
A kidney infection and severe shellfish allergy caused facial swelling. She chose public discussion over perfection pretense.
Her 2018 Great Stand Up to Cancer Bake Off appearance revealed relatable humor. This authenticity strengthens connection beyond the singles chart.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Ella Eyre
The path forward is one of artistic independence, shaped by personal history. Her second studio album, “Everything, In Time,” arrives in 2025. This project marks her first full-length work since leaving major labels.
The 2023 single “Head in the Ground” set a new tone. It is introspective and mature, free from former expectations. The album’s title suggests a lesson learned through loss and industry change.
Profound personal upheaval, including her father’s passing, will likely deepen this new music. Fans of past hits like “Waiting All Night” should expect evolution. The artist is building on her legacy, not repeating it.
Ella Eyre now defines success by craft and truth, not chart position. This future chapter tests the strength of independence. Artistically, the choice for authenticity is already a victory.
