Melissa Viviane Jefferson, professionally known as Lizzo, has made an indelible mark on the American music and entertainment scene. Born on April 27, 1988, in Detroit, Michigan, Lizzo’s journey to stardom has been nothing short of remarkable.
Early Life and Transition to Houston, Texas
At the age of ten, Lizzo relocated to Houston, Texas, with her family. This move played a pivotal role in shaping her artistic journey, as she immersed herself in the vibrant Texan culture.
Minneapolis: The Birthplace of Her Musical Career
After completing her college education, Lizzo made her way to Minneapolis, Minnesota. It was here that she embarked on her recording career, venturing into the world of hip hop music. Her talent and determination quickly gained attention.
Independent Releases: Lizzobangers and Big Grrrl Small World
Before signing with the prestigious Nice Life Recording Company and Atlantic Records, Lizzo released two studio albums independently. “Lizzobangers” in 2013 and “Big Grrrl Small World” in 2015 showcased her unique style and creativity.
Breakthrough with “Cuz I Love You”
Lizzo’s breakthrough came with the release of her third studio album, “Cuz I Love You” in 2019. The album soared to number four on the US Billboard 200 chart, catapulting her into the mainstream. Memorable singles like “Juice” and “Tempo” from the album further solidified her status as a musical powerhouse.
“Truth Hurts” and Unprecedented Success
The deluxe version of “Cuz I Love You” included the 2017 single “Truth Hurts,” which took the world by storm two years after its initial release. It not only topped the US Billboard Hot 100 but also made history as the longest-leading solo song by a female rapper. Simultaneously, her 2016 hit “Good as Hell” climbed the charts, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart.
Grammy Glory and Critical Acclaim
At the 62nd Annual Grammy Awards, Lizzo received a staggering eight nominations, marking her as the most nominated artist of the year. Her wins included Best Urban Contemporary Album, Best Pop Solo Performance for “Truth Hurts,” and Best Traditional R&B Performance for “Jerome.”
Continued Success: “Rumors” and “Special”
In 2021, Lizzo released the hit single “Rumors” featuring Cardi B, which debuted in the top five of the Billboard Hot 100. Her fourth studio album, “Special,” in 2022, was preceded by the chart-topping lead single “About Damn Time.” This achievement made Lizzo the first Black female singer since Whitney Houston in 1994 to win the Grammy Award for Record of the Year.
Multi-Talented Artist
Lizzo’s talent extends beyond music. She has ventured into the world of acting, serving as a voice actor in the animated film “UglyDolls” (2019) and appearing in the crime comedy-drama film “Hustlers” (2019). Additionally, she hosts the Amazon Prime Video reality television series “Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls,” for which she received the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Competition Program.
Accolades and Awards
In 2019, Time magazine honored Lizzo as “Entertainer of the Year” in recognition of her meteoric rise and significant contributions to the music industry. Alongside her four Grammy Awards, she has also secured a Billboard Music Award, a BET Award, and two Soul Train Music Awards.
