Estelle Swaray was born on January 18, 1980 to a very religious Senagalese/Granadan family. The second of nine children she grew into responsibility early on, finding an emotional and creative outlet in her music. Her first exposure to the wide world of music came through her mother and stepfather's interests, which included - Afrrican, gospel, reggae and dub. Even though secular music was not allowed at home, she eventually discovered hip-hop and from then on she was hooked.Born and raised in West London, Estelle Swaray, whose first name is actually Fanta, grew up with the sights and sounds of a bustling urban environment. This self-sufficient star has had no hesitations in taking her career where she wants to go. Finding herself gradually becoming a member of the UK spotlight, she was careful to develop her own style and her own way of doing things.There seems to be little that Estelle is not capable of. As she saw her potential with one label dwindling, she moved herself over to New York, and has found growing success in her new home-town. The energy and power of the city have come as no surprise to her and she has definitely risen to the occasion. Her latest album Shine was released under the Atlantic/Homeschool label on April 29, 2008.Shine showcases the amazing talent of this incredible hip-hop star, whose music has made her one of the most incredible artists to come out of the UK into the U.S. hip-hop scene. Her music is quickly becoming the most celebrated of any music to come from a female artist in her genre, in her newly adopted country. Keep an eye on this artist, she is certain to give a new life to the music stage in the years to come!