Born in Washington, D.C., Kelela Mizanekristos is an American singer, songwriter, and DJ whose genre-blurring music draws from electronic, R&B, and experimental soundscapes.

With Ethiopian heritage influencing her artistic vision, Kelela first gained recognition with her 2013 mixtape, *Cut 4 Me*, released through the Los Angeles-based label Fade to Mind. Her innovative approach and versatile voice quickly established her as a singular force in alternative R&B and the electronic underground. Kelela’s subsequent releases, including her critically acclaimed EP *Hallucinogen* (2015) and her debut album *Take Me Apart* (2017), showcased her ability to weave vulnerable lyricism with futuristic, textured production.

A frequent collaborator, she has worked with prominent producers such as Arca, Jam City, and Kingdom, as well as contributing to projects from Solange and Gorillaz. A formidable presence behind the decks, Kelela has established herself as a respected DJ, integrating her expansive musical influences and championing new sounds on international stages and in underground scenes. Emphasizing the importance of representation and bold self-expression, Kelela continues to redefine the boundaries of club music and contemporary R&B.