About
M.I.A., born Mathangi “Maya” Arulpragasam on July 18, 1975, in London, England, is a British rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer renowned for her eclectic fusion of hip hop, electronic, and world music. Her stage name, M.I.A., stands for “Missing in Action” and “Missing in Acton,” reflecting both her artistic persona and her London neighborhood.
Born to Sri Lankan Tamil parents, M.I.A. spent part of her childhood in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, amidst the civil war, before returning to London as a refugee at age 11. This tumultuous background profoundly influenced her artistry, infusing her music with themes of political unrest and social justice.
M.I.A. began her career as a visual artist and filmmaker, graduating from London’s Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design. Transitioning to music in the early 2000s, she gained underground acclaim with singles like “Galang” and “Sunshowers,” leading to her debut album, Arular (2005), which received critical praise for its innovative sound.
Her sophomore album, Kala (2007), further elevated her profile, featuring the hit single “Paper Planes,” which peaked at number four on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. The song’s success earned her a Grammy nomination and showcased her ability to blend catchy hooks with politically charged lyrics.
Throughout her career, M.I.A. has been recognized for her contributions to music and activism. She is the first person of South Asian descent to be nominated for an Academy Award and a Grammy Award in the same year. In 2019, she was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her services to music.
In 2022, M.I.A. released her sixth studio album, Mata, featuring the single “The One,” continuing her tradition of blending diverse musical styles and thought-provoking themes.
