A second-generation Ethiopian American and an only child, Mizanekristos was born in Washington, D.C., on June 4, 1983.[7] Growing up in Gaithersburg, Maryland, she learned to play the violin in fourth grade and sang in her school's choir.[8] In 2001, she graduated from Magruder High School.[8][9] After transferring from Montgomery College to the American University, Mizanekristos began singing jazz standards at cafés.[8] In 2008, she joined an indie band called Dizzy Spells and sang progressive metal after meeting Tosin Abasi, whom she later dated. In 2010, she moved to Los Angeles,[8] where she currently lives, in addition to London.
Kelela, who openly identifies as queer, created a reading primer in 2020 for her friends, family, and business partners. It included resources like Reader on Misogynoir by Kandis Williams, The Will to Change by bell hooks, Algorithms of Oppression by Safiya Umoja Noble, and content from Sonya Renee Taylor and the Seeing White podcast. This primer inspired others to create similar resources during the George Floyd protests.
Kelela highlights the importance of diverse representation in the music industry, pushing for greater visibility and opportunity for underrepresented artists.
Kelela uses her voice and platform to address issues of racial and gender inequality, advocating for marginalized communities and raising awareness about systemic injustice.
An outspoken ally, Kelela supports the LGBTQ+ community, using her music and public presence to amplify voices and promote inclusivity.
She advocates for mental health awareness, particularly in communities of color, and promotes empowerment through creative expression and solidarity.
[CUT 4 ME - 2013]
[HALLUCINOGEN - 2015]
[TAKE ME APART - 2017]
[RAVEN - 2023]