Early Life and Education
Kali Uchis was born in Alexandria, Virginia, to Colombian parents. She spent her early childhood in Pereira, Colombia, before moving to the United States with her family. Growing up, Uchis was exposed to a wide range of musical genres, including salsa, cumbia, and reggaeton. Uchis attended T. C. Williams High School in Alexandria, Virginia, where she honed her musical skills. She went on to attend Northern Virginia Community College before dropping out to pursue her music career full-time.
Music Career
Uchis began her music career by uploading her music to SoundCloud. In 2012, she released her debut mixtape, Drunken Babble, which received critical acclaim. The mixtape showcased Uchis’ unique blend of genres, including R&B, soul, and reggaeton. In 2015, Uchis released her first EP, Por Vida, which featured collaborations with artists such as Tyler, The Creator and Kaytranada. The EP received widespread critical acclaim and helped to establish Uchis as a rising star in the music industry.
Style and Influences
Uchis’ music is heavily influenced by her Colombian roots, as well as her love for 1960s and 1970s soul and R&B music. Her style has been described as a blend of reggaeton, neo-soul, and pop. Uchis credits artists such as Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Amy Winehouse as her biggest influences. She has also cited Latin American artists such as Celia Cruz and Gloria Estefan as inspirations.
Personal Life
Uchis is known for her private personal life. She has not publicly spoken about her romantic relationships or family life. However, she has been vocal about her struggles with mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Uchis spoke about the importance of mental health and self-care. She emphasized the need for individuals to take care of their mental health and seek help when needed.
Awards and Recognition
Uchis has received several awards and nominations throughout her music career. In 2018, she was nominated for a Latin Grammy Award for Best New Artist. She also won a Latin American Music Award for Best New Artist in 2018. In addition to her music career, Uchis has also dabbled in acting. She made her acting debut in the 2022 film, House of Gucci, alongside Lady Gaga and Adam Driver.
Conclusion
Kali Uchis is a rising star in the music industry, known for her unique blend of genres and her Colombian-American roots. Her music has received critical acclaim, and she has been recognized with several awards and nominations. Uchis is also an advocate for mental health and self-care, emphasizing the importance of taking care of one’s mental well-being.