Nellie McKay has helped to redefine the sounds of rock in her own gleeful and witty way. She is able to include the elements of jazz and pop, which create an edgy, biting sound and help to set her apart from other rock musicians of today. McKay is anything but ordinary; her work is distinct beyond ordinary, having been influenced by the likes of the Billie Holiday, Peggy Lee, Cole Porter and Ann Ross. While her music touches on the elements of pop/rock, jazz and even cabaret, her lyrics hit a darker, even cynical note. It is because of this incredibly unique style that McKay has remained a constant presence on the music stage for years now.

Nellie McKay was born in London, England on April 13, 1984, although she spent much of her childhood in the United States. Initially she toyed with the idea of becoming a stand-up comedian but soon veered in the direction of music, which was quickly becoming her passion. She started performing at small clubs and bars around Manhattan, most notably at venues like the Sidewalk Cafe and the Fez, which helped to expand her East Coast following. In 2003, McKay signed with the record label, Columbia, and released her debut album called Get Away From Me the following year. The album displayed her radical ways and spawned such hits as "Manhattan Avenue" and "Sari."

Fans had to wait a while to get an earful of McKay's sophomore effort, but it finally arrived in October of 2006 with the title Pretty Little Head. It received wide acclaim from critics, even more so than her first album, gaining praise for being an entertaining and beautiful compilation of music with background themes of activism, romance and fun. Some unforgettable songs from this release include, "Cupcake," "There You Are In Me" and "Swept Away." Check out all of McKay's newest releases.