Who Is Adele

Adele Biography

Adele Laurie Blue Adkins, known professionally as Adele, is a British singer-songwriter. She was born in Tottenham, London, England in 1988. Adele rose to fame in 2008 with her debut album "19," which included the hit single "Chasing Pavements." Her follow-up album, "21," released in 2011, featured the hit songs "Rolling in the Deep" and "Someone Like You" and won multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year. Adele's third album, "25," was released in 2015 and featured the hit single "Hello."
Adele has sold over 150 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time. She has won numerous awards throughout her career, including 15 Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and a Golden Globe Award. Adele has also been known for her powerful and emotive live performances and her ability to connect with her audience through her music.

Adele Fast Facts

Adele Laurie Blue Adkins, known professionally as Adele, is a British singer and songwriter. Some facts about her include:
* She was born in Tottenham, London, England in 1988.
* She began her career in 2008 with the release of her debut album, "19," which featured the hit single "Chasing Pavements."
* In 2011, she released her second album, "21," which featured the hit singles "Someone Like You," "Rolling in the Deep," and "Set Fire to the Rain." The album received widespread critical acclaim and sold over 30 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of all time.
* In 2015, she released her third album, "25," which included the hit singles "Hello" and "When We Were Young." The album also received widespread critical acclaim and sold over 20 million copies worldwide.
* Adele's albums have received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards and Brit Awards. She has also won numerous other awards, including an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, and a BRIT award.
* She is known for her powerful and emotive voice and her ability to convey raw emotion through her music.
* Adele has sold over 150 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists in the world.
* Adele has been on a hiatus since 2017 and in 2019 announced her retirement from touring.

ELEVATE
Free Resource: A step-by-step blueprint to realize your dreams

Adele Career Highlights

2006 - 2008:

Adele's journey in the music industry started shortly after her graduation when she published two songs on PlatformsMagazine.com, an online arts publication. These tracks emerged from a three-song demo she had recorded for a class project and shared with a friend. This demo found its way onto Myspace, where it gained immense popularity. The buzz around her caught the attention of Richard Russell, the director of XL Recordings, a music label. Skeptical due to her limited knowledge of record companies, Adele brought a friend to her meeting with Russell. During this time, she also collaborated on the electronic track "Be Divine" with Ricsta.

Adele's career further blossomed in 2007. Nick Huggett from XL Recordings recommended her to Jonathan Dickins at September Management, who became her official representative. She had a chance meeting with producer Jim Abbiss while providing vocals for Jack Peñate's song. This meeting would play a crucial role in her later work. She made her television debut in June, performing "Daydreamer" on the BBC's Later... with Jools Holland. Her breakthrough song "Hometown Glory," written when she was 16, was released in October, capturing attention and setting the stage for her rise.

In 2008, Adele's career took off in earnest. She became the first recipient of the Brit Awards Critics' Choice and was hailed as the predicted breakthrough act of the year in BBC's Sound of 2008 poll. Her second single, "Chasing Pavements," reached number two on the UK Chart. Her debut album, "19," named after her age during its creation, topped the British charts and earned acclaim as an "essential" blue-eyed soul recording. She gained recognition with a Mercury Prize nomination and a Music of Black Origin (MOBO) nomination. Her expansion into the United States was marked by a deal with Columbia Records and XL Recordings, followed by a successful North American tour. Billboard magazine praised her potential as a respected international artist. Her "An Evening with Adele" world tour commenced in May and concluded in June 2009, solidifying her status as a rising star in the music industry.

In 2008, Adele also faced a challenging period in her career. She unexpectedly canceled her US tour dates for a former boyfriend, admitting her struggle with excessive drinking and the unhealthy dynamic in her relationship. This phase, which she termed her "early life crisis," led her to reflect on her choices and motivations. Moreover, she battled homesickness and an aversion to flying when away from her hometown of London. Despite her struggles, Adele was offered a chance to perform on NBC's Saturday Night Live in October 2008. This appearance, coupled with the buzz around then US vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin, garnered the show its highest ratings in 14 years. Adele's performances of "Chasing Pavements" and "Cold Shoulder" from her album "19" led to a surge in sales and chart rankings. This pivotal moment marked the turning point in her US breakthrough.

2009: Grammy Triumph and Growing Recognition

The following year, at the 51st Annual Grammy Awards in 2009, Adele's talent was acknowledged on a global scale. She received the Best New Artist award and won Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for her song "Chasing Pavements." Her duet performance with Jennifer Nettles was a highlight of the ceremony. In addition to these accolades, "Chasing Pavements" was nominated for Record of the Year and Song of the Year. This recognition helped solidify her presence in the music industry. Meanwhile, her album "19" achieved gold certification by the RIAA and had already sold 2.2 million copies worldwide by July 2009.

2010: Expanding Repertoire and Collaborations

As Adele's reputation grew, she expanded her musical repertoire and engaged in notable collaborations. Her song "My Same" entered the German Singles Chart after being performed by Lena Meyer-Landrut in a talent show contest. Her rendition of Bob Dylan's "Make You Feel My Love" gained renewed popularity in the UK singles chart after being featured on The X Factor. Additionally, her duet with Darius Rucker on Lady Antebellum's "Need You Now" during the CMT Artists of the Year special was met with acclaim. Adele's continuous recognition and evolving collaborations set the stage for her continued success in the years to come.

ELEVATE
Free Resource: Over 1000 smart goal ideas to inspire your life

2011: A Breakthrough Year and Album

In 2011, Adele reached new heights with the release of her second studio album, "21," which marked a turning point in her career. The album, launched in January in the UK and February in the US, was deeply influenced by the emotional aftermath of her breakup with a former partner. The music on "21" blended classic and contemporary country and roots styles, a departure from her debut album. The shift in her musical direction was sparked by exposure to Nashville's contemporary music during her American South tour, leading to a more mature sound. The album's title symbolized Adele's personal growth in the preceding years. "21" achieved remarkable success, reigning atop charts in 30 countries, including the UK and the US.

2012: Awards and Recognition

Adele's impact in 2012 extended beyond her album's success. She embraced the alter ego "Sasha Carter" as a tool to combat onstage anxiety, drawing inspiration from both Beyoncé's "Sasha Fierce" and June Carter. A poignant rendition of "Someone Like You" at the Brit Awards propelled the song to UK number one status, reinforcing her influence. Notably, Adele became the first living artist since the Beatles in 1964 to secure two top-five hits concurrently on the Official Singles Chart and the Official Albums Chart. Her performance at the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards elevated "Someone Like You" to her second number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100. The release of "Set Fire to the Rain" further solidified her impact, making her the first artist to concurrently hold a number-one album and three number-one singles on the Billboard charts. Adele's vocal prowess shone through her "Adele Live" tour, though health issues later compelled her to cancel two tours for vocal cord-related concerns. A successful throat microsurgery in November 2011 restored her voice, leading to a triumphant comeback at the 2012 Grammy Awards where she swept six awards, akin to Beyoncé's previous Grammy night feat.

2013-2014: Anticipation for the Next Album

By 2013, Adele's reputation had solidified her as a global icon. With "21" being the bestselling album of 2011 and 2012 and reaching over 31 million copies sold by 2016, her influence was undeniable. As her third album remained in progress, Adele's accomplishments continued to mount, including writing and recording the theme song for the James Bond film "Skyfall." The song garnered widespread acclaim, earning her both a Golden Globe and an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Amid these accolades, Adele confirmed her third album's progression, stating her intent to maintain her signature songwriting and collaborate with producer Paul Epworth once again. The anticipation for her next musical chapter remained high.

In 2014, Adele's prominence continued to soar. She secured her tenth Grammy Award as "Skyfall" won Best Song Written for Visual Media, further validating her prowess as a songwriter. With an estimated 40 million albums and 50 million singles sold worldwide by the end of the year, Adele's influence was insurmountable. Her unique achievement of earning an RIAA diamond certification for a single-disc album in less than two years set her apart as an unparalleled artist of the decade.

As the years progressed, Adele's impact only grew stronger. With her unmatched vocal talent, emotional depth in her music, and a collection of awards and records, Adele solidified herself as one of the most influential and successful artists of her generation.

2015–2017: Rise to Stardom and Album Release

ELEVATE
Free Resource: A step-by-step process for healthier social media use

In the years spanning from 2015 to 2017, Adele's career soared to new heights with the launch of her highly anticipated third studio album, "25." The journey began in 2014, as Adele tantalizingly teased fans with a cryptic tweet on the eve of her 26th birthday, hinting at the imminent release of her next album. Speculation ran rife, and media discussions ensued regarding the album's title and release date. Although there were hopes for a 2014 release, Adele's record label, XL Recordings, ruled out that possibility in their October 2014 accounts.

The lead-up to the album's release was marked by anticipation and revelations. News broke in August 2015 that Adele's label intended to unveil her third studio album, with contributors like Danger Mouse, Tobias Jesso Jr., and Ryan Tedder. At the Venice International Film Festival, Sia revealed her single "Alive" had been co-written by Adele for the upcoming album. In October, a teaser commercial aired on UK television, offering fans a tantalizing glimpse of Adele's new material. It was soon confirmed that the album would be titled "25," marking a departure from her previous age-titled albums, and its release date was set for November 20, 2015.

The album's lead single, "Hello," released on October 23, 2015, was met with unprecedented enthusiasm. Its accompanying music video shattered records, amassing millions of views on YouTube within hours and quickly becoming the fastest video to reach a billion views. The song's emotional resonance struck a chord with listeners, propelling it to the top of charts around the world. Notably, it debuted at number one on the UK Singles Chart and Billboard Hot 100, achieving remarkable sales figures.

With the album's release, Adele's impact was monumental. "25" debuted at number one on both the UK Albums Chart and the US Billboard 200, breaking records for the fastest-selling album in both countries. Its success echoed globally, earning Adele recognition as the best-selling artist worldwide for 2015 and securing her the IFPI Global Recording Artist of the Year title. Adele's influence extended beyond music, as she made impactful television appearances and was hailed as the "Queen of Hearts" by Vanity Fair magazine.

Adele's world tour continued into 2017, with her first-ever performances in Australia. Her concerts shattered attendance records, and her impact resonated across the globe. However, the tour experienced a setback as Adele had to cancel her final two shows due to vocal cord damage. In an inspiring display of fan support, admirers gathered outside Wembley Stadium for a heartfelt event titled "Sing for Adele."

Recognition continued to flow her way, as Adele was named Billboard's Artist of the Year for the third time. Her appearance on James Corden's Carpool Karaoke segment became a viral sensation, amassing millions of views on YouTube and becoming the platform's most significant viral video of 2016. At the Grammy Awards, Adele swept the categories she was nominated in, further cementing her status as a musical powerhouse. Her performance, including an emotional tribute to George Michael, showcased her authenticity and dedication to her craft.

In the later part of 2017, Adele made a significant management decision by switching her performance rights management in the US. As the curtain fell on this remarkable period, Adele's impact and achievements remained indelible, solidifying her position as one of the most influential and beloved artists of her time.

2018–2021: Anticipation and Album Release

Beginning in 2018, Adele's fans eagerly awaited her fourth studio album, which was rumored to be in the works. Speculation intensified on her 31st birthday in May 2019 when she posted black-and-white photos on Instagram, hinting at the imminent release of a new album. However, it wasn't until February 2020 that she announced at a friend's wedding that the album would be released by September of that year. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted these plans, causing delays in production and release. In October 2020, Adele returned to television by hosting Saturday Night Live, her first appearance in four years.

In October 2021, Adele's enigmatic teaser campaign featuring the number "30" on landmarks worldwide led to the confirmation that her album would indeed be titled "30." The anticipation built as she announced the release of her single "Easy on Me" and unveiled plans for the album's launch. The single, released in October 2021, garnered immense praise, breaking streaming records and achieving chart-topping positions in both the UK and the US. The subsequent release of the album on November 19, 2021, marked a monumental success, securing the top spot in 24 countries. Adele's "30" became the best-selling album of the year globally, with remarkable sales figures.

2022–2023: Las Vegas Residency and Ongoing Success

Adele's influence extended beyond music as she became the first person to grace the covers of both Vogue and British Vogue simultaneously in October 2021. She continued to make history by receiving a Primetime Emmy Award for her television special "Adele One Night Only," showcasing her versatility as an artist. The announcement of her Las Vegas residency, "Weekends with Adele," was met with high expectations, and the performances exceeded all anticipation, earning widespread critical acclaim. Adele's emotionally charged shows and the grandeur of her stage setup left audiences awestruck.

The artist's connection with her audience grew stronger as she extended her Las Vegas residency to accommodate more shows, ensuring that as many fans as possible could experience her performances. Adele's triumphant presence at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards in February 2023 highlighted her enduring impact, as she received seven nominations and won the Grammy for Best Pop Solo Performance, further cementing her record-breaking legacy. As her initial residency came to a close, she announced an extension, promising even more opportunities for fans to witness her unparalleled talents, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to her craft and audience. The extended residency, set to run from June to November 2023, ensures that Adele's artistic journey continues to captivate and inspire audiences around the world.

Adele Personal Life

1988-1999: Early Life and Childhood - Adele Laurie Blue Adkins was born on May 5, 1988, in the Tottenham district of London, to parents Penny Adkins and Marc Evans. Her father left when she was 2, and she was raised by her mother. From a young age, Adele displayed a keen interest in singing and voices. In 1997, when she was nine, Adele and her mother moved to Brighton before returning to London in 1999, settling in Brixton and later West Norwood. Her song "Hometown Glory" was inspired by her time in West Norwood and her experiences in Brockwell Park, where she would play the guitar and sing. Adele's formative years in London laid the foundation for her musical aspirations.

2000-2006: Education and Early Artistic Influences - Adele's journey continued as she graduated from the BRIT School for Performing Arts & Technology in Croydon in 2006, a period during which she shared classrooms with fellow talents like Leona Lewis and Jessie J. Despite initially considering a career in artists and repertoire (A&R), Adele credits the school with nurturing her artistic talent. Her education marked a pivotal phase in her development as an artist, even though her interests were initially directed towards helping others launch their careers.

2007-2021: Relationships, Parenthood, and Artistic Achievements - In 2011, Adele's personal life took center stage as she entered a relationship with charity entrepreneur Simon Konecki, and they welcomed their son in 2012. Becoming a parent brought profound purpose to Adele's life, though she also opened up about her struggles with postnatal depression, anxiety, and panic attacks. Throughout this time, she garnered immense success in her music career, winning multiple Grammy Awards and capturing the hearts of millions worldwide. Adele's romantic life underwent changes, with speculation surrounding her relationship with Konecki leading to her eventual confirmation of their marriage during the 59th Annual Grammy Awards in 2017. However, it was later revealed in a 2021 interview that their marriage occurred in 2018, followed by their separation the same year. Despite the challenges, Adele continued to evolve as an artist, and her experiences as a stay-at-home mother further shaped her perspectives.

2021-Present: Continuing Journey and Relationships - As of the latest information available, in 2021, Adele entered a relationship with American sports agent Rich Paul, showcasing her ongoing pursuit of personal happiness and connections. Her journey as an artist and an individual continues to captivate and inspire fans around the world.

Beyond her music and public life, Adele formed close bonds with various personalities, including Nicole Richie, Jennifer Lawrence, Cameron Diaz, Emma Stone, and more. Her friendships spanned industries, and she counted influential figures like Elton John and Drake among her inner circle. In 2018, she even officiated a wedding for her friend comedian Alan Carr, showcasing her genuine and diverse connections.

Adele's engagement with social and political issues became evident as she expressed her support for the Labour Party and her criticism of the Conservative Party. However, her comments on taxes in a 2011 interview drew backlash, highlighting the complexities of political alignment. She also identified as a feminist and a supporter of equal treatment for all, including matters of race and sexuality. Adele's support for the LGBTQ+ community was evident in her emotional dedication of a show to the victims of the Orlando nightclub shooting in 2016.

Adele Human Design

Birth Date: 05 May 1988, 08:19 (UTC+01:00)
Birth Place: Tottenham, United Kingdom
Human Design Type: Emotional Manifestor
Profile: 2/5 - Hermit / Heretic
Definition: Split - Small (57)
Incarnation Cross: RAX The Sphinx 2
Strategy: Inform & Initiate
Themes: Peace / Anger

Design Date (UTC): 06 February 1988, 14:20:58
Brain: Active
Determination: Consecutive
Cognition: Smell
Environment: Shores - Natural
Environment Style: Observed

Personality: Strategic
Motivation: Innocence
Sense: Uncertainty
Trajectory: Observer
View Perspective: Peripheral
View: Personal
Transferred Motivation: Desire
Transferred View: Power

Channels: 1020 - Awakening, 1222 - Openness, 2644 - Surrender

Adele Top Quotes

"I don't make music for eyes. I make music for ears." (Meaning)

"I can't dance to save my life."

"My life is full of drama, and I don't have time to worry about something as petty as what I look like."

"I don't really need to stand out, there's room for everyone. Although I haven't built a niche yet, I'm just writing love songs."

"Sometimes with pop music, you have to see it to love it. With soul music, it's sparse. There's nothing that's pretentious or planned. It's just so gutsy."

Adele Quotes

***

* The editor of this short biography made every effort to maintain information accuracy, including any quotes, facts, or key life events. If you're looking to expand your personal development, I recommend exploring other people's life stories and gaining inspiration from my collection of inspiring quotes. Exposing yourself to different perspectives can broaden your worldview and help you with your personal growth.

Reading is Smart. Applying is Smarter:  Apply
Subscribe on YouTube to get more wisdom:  

Chief Editor

Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.

 
Actualize Your Potential
Get my simplified process for realizing dreams (The exact process that enabled me to achieve 100 life goals in 10 years)
GET IT FREE:
Access my Start With WHY workbook for free, designed to guide you toward your purpose and the person you are meant to become
expert_advice
Align With Your Why
Elevate In Your Inbox
Get actionable insights, best practices, and wisdom you can apply — No hype, No fluff. Just practical ideas that might change your life.

Read The Art of Fully Living

There's no going back-once you embark on the journey you're meant to live, it's impossible to settle for anything less than your dreams.

Click here to learn more

Set Better Goals

Learn a better and smarter approach to setting and achieving goals. It's not just about what you want to achieve, but who you must become in the process.

Click here to learn more
Take The Free Test
Discover your areas for growth in just 5 minutes. Take the FREE self-evaluation test and pinpoint where to focus your efforts

Uplevel Your Game

Explore The Roadmaps

Access a self-paced online roadmap that turns big goals into realities, complete with daily study guides, actionable steps, and proven practices from the world's best minds
Reclaim your freedom, escape 9-5, and live the life you were meant to live — A self-paced roadmap with daily study guides, actionable steps, and proven practices

Explore The All-Access

Unlock unlimited, lifetime access to a growing library of actionable knowledge and study guides from the world's top minds.
Join The Accelerator
Join a 10-week, personalized immersion that will accelerate your goal-attainment, elevate you to your next level, and turn your big dreams into reality.
Learn More
Contact
Thanks for reading. It makes a difference. A portion of all proceeds from our endeavors supports entrepreneurs in the developing world. View Impact...