Ava Max

Early Life

Ava Max, born Amanda Koçi on February 16, 1994, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is an American singer and songwriter of Albanian descent. Her parents fled Albania in 1991 after the fall of communism, eventually settling in the United States. Growing up in a financially struggling household, Max was inspired by her mother, a classically trained opera singer, and her father, a pianist. At the age of 10, she debuted at the NorVa in Norfolk, Virginia, performing Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)". She began her music career under the name Amanda Kay, releasing an extended play in 2008 before adopting the stage name Ava Max at 14.

Career

Max's career took off in 2018 with her breakthrough single "Sweet but Psycho", which topped charts in 22 countries and reached number two on the US Billboard Hot 100. After signing with Atlantic Records in 2016, she released several successful albums, including "Heaven & Hell" and "Diamonds & Dancefloors". Her music, characterized by dance-pop and electropop elements, often features interpolations from previous songs and has drawn comparisons to artists like Sia and Lady Gaga. Max's signature hairstyle, known as the 'Max Cut', became a part of her identity as she established herself in the music industry.

Personal Life

Ava Max identifies as "100% Albanian" and is passionate about female empowerment, a theme reflected in her music. She speaks Albanian but admits she cannot read it. In a recent interview, she revealed a brief romantic relationship with Canadian producer Cirkut, with whom she collaborated early in her career. Despite facing challenges, including sexual harassment in the industry, Max has remained resilient and continues to inspire others through her artistry and advocacy.