Iggy Azalea | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : December 24, 2024

Who is Iggy Azalea?

Iggy Azalea, born Amethyst Amelia Kelly on June 7, 1990, in Sydney, Australia, is a prominent figure in the music industry, known for her unique blend of hip hop and pop. With a background that spans continents, Azalea's journey began in the small town of Mullumbimby, New South Wales. Growing up enamored with hip hop, she was particularly influenced by artists like Tupac and Missy Elliott. In pursuit of her dreams, she moved to the United States as a teenager, where she honed her craft in the heart of hip hop culture. Azalea quickly rose to fame, becoming one of the genre's standout talents.

In 2014, Azalea's debut album, "The New Classic", catapulted her to global recognition, achieving extraordinary success on the Billboard charts. She made history by holding both the No. 1 and No. 2 spots on the Billboard Hot 100 simultaneously, a feat only previously accomplished by The Beatles. Known for her striking Southern drawl and sassy persona, Azalea garnered four Grammy nominations for her groundbreaking work. Beyond her music, she has made headlines for her candid approach to personal topics, including her relationships and cosmetic surgery, establishing her as a multifaceted and relatable figure in contemporary culture.

Early Life and Education

Iggy Azalea, born Amethyst Amelia Kelly on June 7, 1990, in Sydney, Australia, experienced an upbringing that sparked her love for hip-hop music. Raised in the small town of Mullumbimby, she was surrounded by the influences of her father, an artist, and her mother, a cleaner. Azalea began to forge her unique identity from a young age, drawn to the vibrant sounds of hip-hop. At just 12 years old, she developed a passion for rap, citing iconic artists like Tupac, Missy Elliott, and Busta Rhymes as her musical inspirations. The isolation of her Australian upbringing contrasted sharply with her burgeoning love for the hip-hop culture buzzing in America.

In 2001, Iggy's perspective on the world shifted dramatically during a road trip to the United States with her grandparents. This experience ignited a desire to escape the confines of her rural life and pursue her dreams in America’s music scene. By the age of 15, fueled by her determination and the Internet, she began to connect with others in the hip-hop community. Ultimately, she made a life-altering decision by moving to the U.S. shortly before her 16th birthday, abandoning her formal education to immerse herself in Southern rap culture, which would play a significant role in shaping her career as an artist.

Iggy's Move to America and Southern Rap Style

Iggy's journey to America began just before her 16th birthday when she took a pivotal trip to visit her friend Derek in Miami. With a desire to immerse herself in the birthplace of hip hop, Azalea made an immediate decision to stay in the U.S. and dropped out of school, leaving her family and life in Australia behind. It was in Miami that she first honed her craft, absorbing the vibrant culture of Southern rap that would later define her musical style. The transition was monumental, as she moved from feeling isolated in Australia to flourishing in an environment brimming with influences that she longed to be a part of.

After her initial time in Miami, Azalea relocated to Atlanta, where she deeply embedded herself within the Southern rap scene. This immersion infused her music with a distinct drawl and trap beats, establishing her as a unique voice in a genre often dominated by its traditional roots. In 2011, she released her mixtape “Ignorant Art,” capturing the raw energy of her experiences. Through this process, Iggy not only developed a unique blend of Southern rap but also gained recognition for her contributions to the genre, notably becoming the first female non-American rapper to grace the cover of XXL's Freshmen Class issue in 2012. Her move to America was more than just geographical; it transformed her into a pivotal figure in the evolution of hip hop.

The New Classic and Chart-Topping Success

Iggy Azalea’s debut album, "The New Classic", released in April 2014, marked a significant milestone in her career and in hip hop. Blending elements of trap, dubstep, EDM, and pop, the album quickly gained traction, debuting at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart. With hit singles such as "Work," "Bounce," and "Fancy," Iggy showcased her unique style and versatility, earning her acclaim across the music industry. The infectious track "Fancy," featuring Charli XCX, not only soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, but it also made Azalea a household name.

In an exceptional feat, Iggy Azalea became the second artist in history, following The Beatles, to hold both the No. 1 and No. 2 spots on the Billboard Hot 100 simultaneously. Her collaboration on Ariana Grande’s "Problem" secured her the second position, while "Fancy" took the top spot, solidifying her influence in both the pop and hip hop genres. The album garnered four Grammy nominations, underscoring her rapid rise and cementing her status as a force in contemporary music. A blend of artistry and authenticity, "The New Classic" remains a defining moment in Iggy's illustrious career.

Love Life, Plastic Surgery, and "Survive the Summer"

Iggy Azalea's love life has often been in the spotlight, beginning with her relationship with rapper A$AP Rocky in 2011. Their romance was intense enough that she had a tattoo of the title of his mixtape, "Live. Love. A$AP," inked on her fingers, which she later removed after their breakup in 2012. In June 2015, Iggy announced her engagement to NBA player Nick Young, creating excitement among fans. However, the engagement ended just a year later due to allegations of infidelity, forcing Azalea to reevaluate her personal life amidst her rising career. Each relationship highlighted her struggles, balancing public scrutiny with private heartbreak.

Apart from her personal relationships, Azalea has been candid about her journey with plastic surgery. She addressed her breast augmentation in March 2015, explaining that she initially hesitated to speak about it to avoid making other women feel insecure. However, she ultimately embraced transparency and spoke about her subsequent nose job in interviews, emphasizing that plastic surgery is an emotional journey. Azalea's admission reflects a broader conversation about body image and the pressure women feel in the entertainment industry, showcasing her evolving understanding of self-acceptance in the face of evolving beauty standards.

In 2018, Iggy released the EP "Survive the Summer," marking her comeback after a turbulent period. This project included the lead single "Kream," which brought her back into the music spotlight, highlighting her resilience and determination to evolve as an artist. Alongside her musical endeavors, Iggy briefly dated NFL star DeAndre Hopkins, further playing into the narrative of her dynamic personal life. The EP served as both a musical return and a personal reclamation, allowing Azalea to address her experiences with love, loss, and self-identity through her art.

Personal Life: Relationships and Son

Iggy Azalea's romantic life has been a subject of media fascination, primarily highlighted by her high-profile relationships. The rapper began dating A$AP Rocky in 2011, and their relationship inspired her to get a tattoo featuring the title of his mixtape, "Live. Love. A$AP." However, after their split in 2012, she removed the tattoo, signaling a clear break from that chapter of her life. In June 2015, she became engaged to L.A. Lakers player Nick Young. Their engagement ended after a year, primarily due to allegations of infidelity on Young's part, which left Azalea reflecting on her emotional journey regarding relationships and public image.

In a more personal revelation, Azalea announced on June 10, 2020, that she had welcomed a son named Onyx, a milestone she had kept secret until she felt ready to share. Through an Instagram Story, she expressed her love for her son while emphasizing the importance of keeping his life private. Although she did not disclose the father’s identity, the announcement highlighted a new chapter in her life, indicating her desire to balance fame with motherhood. Azalea's journey as a parent continues to evolve, as she navigates her public persona alongside her responsibilities as a mother.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary and Investments

Iggy Azalea's financial success is as notable as her musical achievements. As of 2023, her estimated net worth is reported to be around $15 million. This wealth has been accrued through various revenue streams, largely originating from her music sales, streaming royalties, and live performances. Iggy's breakout hits, including "Fancy" and "Black Widow," have helped solidify her place in the music industry, contributing significantly to her income. Additionally, her involvement in the fashion industry, including partnerships with major brands and modeling contracts, has further bolstered her financial standing.

Beyond music, Iggy Azalea has made savvy investments that complement her artistic endeavors. She launched her own production company, Azalea Street Productions, which focuses on creating content aimed at empowering young women and addressing social justice issues. This venture not only diversifies her portfolio but also allows her to exert influence in the media landscape. Furthermore, her strategic collaborations with brands and involvement in modeling campaigns have enhanced her visibility and income, making her a prominent figure in both the entertainment and business worlds.