Ellie Goulding, born Elena Jane Goulding on December 30, 1986, in Hereford, England, is a British singer-songwriter known for her distinctive soprano and genre-blending music. She began writing songs in her teens and learned to play clarinet and guitar. While studying at the University of Kent, she discovered electronic music and developed her folktronica style, which led her to work with producers like Frankmusik and Starsmith and move to London to pursue music professionally.
In 2009, she released her debut single “Under the Sheets” and the EP An Introduction to Ellie Goulding. In 2010, she won both the BBC Sound of 2010 poll and the Brit Critics’ Choice Award. Her debut album Lights (2010) debuted at number one in the UK, and her take on Elton John’s "Your Song" became a hit tied to a major UK Christmas commercial campaign.
Her follow-up albums Halcyon (2012) and Halcyon Days (2013) included hits like "Burn" and featured collaborations with Calvin Harris and others. Delirium (2015), her third album, expanded her global appeal with its energetic electro-pop sound.
Her fourth album Brightest Blue (2020) balanced introspective songwriting with electronic production. Higher Than Heaven (2023) became her fourth UK number-one album, tying her with Adele for the most chart-topping albums by a British female solo artist.
In early 2025, she released the dance-pop single "Save My Love" with Marshmello & Avaion, followed by "Hypnotized" with Anyma (January), which reached number one on the US Dance/Mix Show Airplay chart and became another international smash. She is currently developing a deeply personal album, including classical-infused elements.
Goulding is also a committed activist — a UN goodwill ambassador and frequent speaker on environmental issues, mental health, LGBTQ+ rights, and women’s empowerment. She has received multiple humanitarian awards and integrates advocacy into her music and public platform.
