Kiesza

Kiesza (born Kiesa Rae Ellestad on January 16, 1989) is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for her powerful vocals, dynamic stage presence, and genre-blending sound that spans pop, dance, soul, and R&B. Raised in Calgary, Alberta, she grew up in a musically inclined family and studied music and theatre, which helped shape her commanding performance style.

Kiesza gained international recognition in 2014 with her breakout single “Hideaway.” The song became a global hit, reaching No. 1 in the UK and charting in multiple countries, praised for its retro house influence, raw vocal delivery, and minimalist one-take dance video. The success of “Hideaway” led to her debut album, Sound of a Woman (2014), which showcased her versatility through a mix of electronic dance tracks, soul-infused ballads, and socially conscious lyrics.

In 2017, at a pivotal moment in her rising career, Kiesza was involved in a serious car accident in Toronto that resulted in significant physical injuries. The recovery process forced her to step away from music for several years, profoundly impacting her life and artistry. During this period, she focused on healing and rediscovering her creative voice, experiences that would later shape her music’s emotional depth.

She returned with renewed purpose on her second album, Crave (2020), a more introspective and experimental project that explored vulnerability, resilience, and self-reflection. In the following years, Kiesza continued to evolve artistically, releasing Dancing and Crying Vol. 1 (2023), a project that balanced dance-floor energy with deeply personal themes of survival, joy, and emotional release.

Known for her bold fashion sense, athletic choreography, and expressive performances, Kiesza has carved out a unique space in modern pop music. Her career is marked not only by chart success, but by perseverance, artistic growth, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity.