M.I.A. – BORN FREE

More about M.I.A.

M.I.A., born Mathangi "Maya" Arulpragasam on July 18, 1975, in London, England, is a British rapper, singer, songwriter, and visual artist known for her eclectic music style and bold political statements. Her family hails from Sri Lanka, and her experiences growing up amidst civil war have profoundly influenced her music and art, often reflecting themes of identity, politics, and multiculturalism. M.I.A. burst onto the global music scene with her debut album 'Arular' in 2005, named after her father's political alias. The album, along with its 2007 follow-up, 'Kala,' was critically acclaimed, blending elements of hip-hop, electronic, dancehall, and world music, and featuring the hit single 'Paper Planes,' which achieved widespread success and brought her mainstream attention. M.I.A. is not just known for her music but also for her distinctive visual art and fashion sense, often incorporating vibrant, guerrilla-style artwork into her music videos and live performances. Throughout her career, M.I.A. has been both celebrated and controversial, unafraid to tackle global issues such as immigration, warfare, and consumerism in her work. Despite facing criticism and legal challenges, including a high-profile dispute with the NFL, M.I.A. has remained a fearless and influential figure in the music industry, advocating for social and political change. Her contributions to music and culture have earned her numerous awards and nominations, solidifying her status as an icon of the 21st century.