A powerful, soulful voice behind hits like "Next to Me" and "Read All About It", this singer-songwriter is known for her heartfelt, uplifting lyrics and genre-bending sound.
Emeli Sandé, the Scottish singer-songwriter, is renowned for her powerful, soulful voice and poignant songwriting, which has captivated the hearts of millions worldwide. With a remarkable career spanning over a decade, she has solidified her position as one of the most successful and influential artists of her generation.
Born Adele Emily Sandé on March 10, 1987, in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, England, to a Zambian father and an English mother, Sandé's early life was marked by a rich cultural heritage. Her family's move to Alford, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, when she was just four, would later influence her unique sound, blending Scottish folk, soul, and R&B.
Sandé's big break came in 2009 when she featured on Chipmunk's hit single "Diamond Rings," which peaked at number six on the UK Singles Chart. This was followed by another successful collaboration with Wiley on "Never Be Your Woman" in 2010. However, it was her solo single "Heaven" in 2011 that truly showcased her vocal prowess and emotional depth, propelling her to stardom.
Sandé's debut studio album, Our Version of Events, released in 2012, was a critical and commercial triumph, spending ten non-consecutive weeks at number one on the UK Albums Chart and selling over 1 million copies. The album spawned two number one singles, "Read All About It" featuring Professor Green and "Beneath Your Beautiful" with Labrinth. Her sophomore album, Long Live the Angels, released in 2016, debuted at number two on the UK Albums Chart.
Sandé's impressive career has been punctuated by numerous awards and nominations. She has won four Brit Awards, including Best British Female Solo Artist in 2013 and 2017, and British Album of the Year in 2013. She has also been nominated for three MTV Europe Music Awards and two Ivor Novello Awards.
Beyond her music, Sandé is an inspiration to many, particularly young black women, for her unwavering confidence and unapologetic individuality. She has been an advocate for social justice and has supported various charities, including the Prince's Trust and the British Red Cross.
Sandé's soul-stirring voice and genre-bending sound have left an indelible mark on contemporary R&B. Her influence can be seen in a new generation of artists, and her music continues to inspire and uplift audiences worldwide. As a testament to her enduring legacy, Emeli Sandé remains one of the most beloved and respected artists of her generation.
"I want my music to be a reflection of who I am, and I want to be proud of what I put out."
"Music is a way to express myself, to tell my story, and to connect with others."
