Kiesza

Kiesza Rae Ellestad (born January 16, 1989) is a Canadian singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and dancer. She is known for her distinctive vocals, which blend elements of house, pop, and R&B, and for her energetic dance performances.

Kiesza was born in Calgary, Alberta, and raised primarily in that city. She served in the Royal Canadian Navy as a code breaker and training officer before pursuing a music career. Her musical training is diverse, including time at Berklee College of Music.

Kiesza gained international recognition with her 2014 single "Hideaway," which reached number one in the United Kingdom and was a top ten hit in several other countries. The music video for "Hideaway," a one-shot video filmed in Brooklyn, also garnered considerable attention.

Her debut album, Sound of a Woman, was released in 2014 and featured singles like "Giant in My Heart" and "No Enemiesz." Kiesza has collaborated with numerous artists including Diplo, Skrillex, and Gorgon City.

In 2017, Kiesza was involved in a serious car accident that left her with a traumatic brain injury. This setback significantly impacted her ability to perform and create music. After a period of recovery, she returned to releasing music.

Kiesza's musical style is characterized by its blend of genres, strong vocal delivery, and emphasis on danceable rhythms. She has cited influences ranging from Michael Jackson to Madonna to Stevie Wonder.