Ego Ella May is a British-Nigerian singer-songwriter celebrated for her ethereal voice and genre-blending sound that merges neo-soul, R&B, and contemporary jazz. Rising from South London's vibrant music scene, her introspective lyrics explore themes of self-reflection and social issues, capturing the essence of healing and personal growth in her captivating work.
Ego Ella May is a critically acclaimed British-Nigerian singer-songwriter renowned for her ethereal vocals and eclectic blend of neo-soul, R&B, contemporary jazz, and alternative R&B. Hailing from South London, Ego Ella May has become a prominent figure in the vibrant "South London Jazz Scene," known for her introspective songwriting and genre-blending sound.
Born in 1992 in Croydon, South London, Ego Ella May was influenced by her Nigerian heritage, which is reflected in her first name "Ego." Her middle name, "Ella May," is an homage to the legendary jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald. She began her musical journey in her late teens, teaching herself guitar, beat-making, and music production by the age of 19. Her early influences range from iconic artists such as Stevie Wonder and Ella Fitzgerald to 90s R&B groups like Destiny's Child and Mary J. Blige.
May's music is characterized by its dreamy and soulful qualities, merging elements of neo-soul with the intricacies of contemporary jazz and alternative R&B. Her lyrics are honest and introspective, often exploring themes of self-reflection, social issues, and personal growth. Artists such as Lauryn Hill, Lianne La Havas, and Corinne Bailey Rae have significantly influenced her guitar-based songwriting style.
She has performed on notable platforms such as COLORS and BBC Four and collaborated with artists including Theo Croker, Alfa Mist, and Wu-Lu.
Ego Ella May's lyrical content is rich with explorations of self-reflection, healing, and relationships. She strives to write with authenticity about a wide array of topics, extending beyond conventional love songs to include societal issues like inequality and environmental concerns.
Ego Ella May has graced stages with headline shows across the UK, as well as prominent festivals such as SXSW and the EFG London Jazz Festival. With a growing fan base, she aspires to expand her performances internationally, including a stronger presence in the United States.
In 2023, May released the "Field Notes Part III" EP and performed at the International Festival de Jazz de Montreal. She continues to be a significant figure in the UK jazz/soul scene and is actively working on new music, further establishing her reputation as a rising talent in these genres.
