How to Hire M.I.A. For Your Event!
aka: Maya, Mathangi Arulpragasam
Hire: M.I.A.
M.I.A., whose real name is Mathangi “Maya” Arulpragasam, is a British-Sri Lankan rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, and activist known for her eclectic music style and politically charged lyrics.
Early Life
- Birth: M.I.A. was born on July 18, 1975, in Hounslow, London, England.
- Family Background: Her parents are of Sri Lankan Tamil origin. Her father, Arul Pragasam, was a founding member of the Eelam Revolutionary Organisation of Students (EROS), a political Tamil group in Sri Lanka. This political involvement significantly influenced M.I.A.’s life and work.
- Childhood: Due to the civil war in Sri Lanka, M.I.A. and her family frequently relocated, spending part of her childhood in Sri Lanka and later seeking asylum in the UK.
Education
- Schooling: M.I.A. attended the Holy Family Convent in Jaffna, Tamil Nadu, and later went to the Ricards Lodge High School in Wimbledon, London.
- Higher Education: She studied at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design, where she graduated with a degree in Fine Art, Film, and Video.
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Early Career
- Visual Arts: M.I.A. initially pursued a career in visual arts and film, working on documentaries and art projects. She exhibited her paintings, which led to her work as a visual artist being recognized.
Music Career
- Debut Album: Her debut album, “Arular,” was released in 2005. It received critical acclaim for its unique blend of electronic, hip-hop, and world music influences, along with politically charged lyrics.
- Second Album: “Kala” (2007) further established her as a major force in the music industry. The album included the hit single “Paper Planes,” which became a global success and was featured in various films and commercials.
- Subsequent Albums:
- “Maya” (2010) continued her experimental approach to music and incorporated themes of technology and global issues.
- “Matangi” (2013) was named after her birth name and featured a mix of genres, including electronic, hip-hop, and traditional Tamil music.
- “AIM” (2016) explored her identity and the refugee experience, continuing her tradition of addressing political and social issues through her music.
Style and Influence
- Musical Style: M.I.A.‘s music is characterized by its eclectic mix of genres, including electro, reggae, rhythm and blues, alternative rock, hip-hop, grime, rap ballads and Asian folk. It also references her musical influences, such as Missy Elliott, Tamil film music, Lou Reed, the Pixies, Timbaland, Beastie Boys, and London Posse. She often incorporates samples from diverse sources and blends traditional instruments with modern beats.
- Lyrical Themes: Her lyrics frequently address political and social issues, including immigration, identity, and global conflicts. She is known for her outspoken and controversial views, which she expresses through her music and public statements.
- She was a childhood fan of Boney M, composer A. R. Rahman and pop artists Michael Jackson and Madonna. She has cited Björk as an inspiration and has been influenced by The Slits, Public Enemy, Malcolm McLaren, and The Clash.
Activism and Controversies
- Activism: M.I.A. has been a vocal advocate for various causes, including refugee rights, and has used her platform to raise awareness about issues affecting marginalized communities.
- Controversies: Her outspoken nature has led to several controversies, including her criticism of governments and corporations. One notable incident was her Super Bowl performance in 2012, where she showed her middle finger during the halftime show, sparking widespread media attention.
Personal Life
- Family: M.I.A. has a son, Ikhyd Edgar Arular Bronfman, with Benjamin Bronfman, a musician and environmentalist.
- Residence: She has lived in various places, including London, Los Angeles, and New York, reflecting her global outlook and influences.
Legacy
M.I.A. is regarded as a pioneering artist who has pushed the boundaries of music and used her platform to address critical global issues. Her unique sound and fearless approach to activism have left a lasting impact on the music industry and beyond.
Her discography includes six studio albums, two extended plays, three mixtapes, forty singles (including eight as a featured artist), and twenty-nine music videos.
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