History of Iggy Azalea in Timeline
"Iggy Azalea, born Amethyst Amelia Kelly, is an Australian rapper, songwriter, and model. She relocated to the United States at 16 to pursue music, gaining recognition through YouTube releases of her songs "Pussy" and "Two Times." Following her debut mixtape "Ignorant Art" in 2011, she signed with T.I.'s Grand Hustle label."
1988: Earth Girls Are Easy Homage
In 1988, Azalea referenced the film 'Earth Girls Are Easy' in her music video for 'Pretty Girls' released in 2015. Her videos are known for their cinema-quality and comedic satire.
June 1990: Birth of Amethyst Amelia Kelly
Amethyst Amelia Kelly, who would later be known as Iggy Azalea, was born in June 1990.
1995: Clueless Homage
In 1995, Azalea referenced the film 'Clueless' in her music video for 'Fancy' released in 2014. The video is known for its cinema-quality and comedic satire.
1997: Priscilla, Queen of the Desert Homage
In 1997, Iggy Azalea paid homage to the film 'Priscilla, Queen of the Desert' in her music video for 'Work' released in 2013. The video is noted for its cinema-quality and comedic satire.
2003: Kill Bill Homage
In 2003, Azalea paid homage to the film 'Kill Bill' in her music video for 'Black Widow' released in 2014. The video is noted for its high-quality cinematic elements and satire.
2006: Moved to the United States
At the age of 16, Iggy Azalea moved to the United States in 2006 to pursue a music career.
2006: Arrival in Miami, Florida
Upon arriving in the U.S. in 2006, Iggy Azalea initially stayed in Miami, Florida, before briefly living in Houston, Texas.
2010: Move to Los Angeles and Stage Name Adoption
Iggy Azalea moved to Los Angeles in 2010 and adopted her stage name, inspired by her childhood dog, Iggy, and her street, Azalea Street.
September 2011: Release of Mixtape "Ignorant Art"
On September 27, 2011, Iggy Azalea released her first full-length project, a mixtape titled "Ignorant Art." The mixtape, designed to challenge conventional thinking, included the song "Pussy" and featured guest appearances from artists like YG, Joe Moses, Chevy Jones, and Problem.
November 2011: Release of "My World" Music Video
In November 2011, Iggy Azalea released the music video for her song "My World," directed by Alex/2tone. The video, gaining popularity for its '90s aesthetic and a cameo appearance by Tiny Lister, further increased her visibility.
December 2011: Announcement of Debut Album "The New Classic"
By December 2011, Iggy Azalea revealed plans for her debut studio album, "The New Classic," contingent upon securing a major record deal. She envisioned the album as a collaborative effort, aiming to establish a cohesive sound and direction.
2011: Began Dating ASAP Rocky
In late 2011, Iggy Azalea began dating American rapper ASAP Rocky, whom she met through record producer Chase N. Cashe. Their relationship became public in early 2012.
2011: Release of Debut Mixtape "Ignorant Art"
Iggy Azalea released her debut mixtape, "Ignorant Art", in 2011.
January 2012: Relationship with ASAP Rocky Confirmed
In January 2012, Iggy Azalea confirmed in an interview with Vibe that she was dating American rapper ASAP Rocky. She also got a tattoo dedicated to their relationship around this time.
January 2012: Release of "The Last Song" Music Video and Label Hints
January 2012 marked the release of the music video for "The Last Song," the third from "Ignorant Art." An interview with Billboard that same month saw Azalea hinting at a potential signing with Interscope Records while outlining plans for a June release of "The New Classic," preceded by a debut single in March.
March 2012: Signing with Grand Hustle Records and "Murda Bizness" Release
March 2012 marked significant developments in Iggy Azalea's career. T.I. announced her signing to Grand Hustle Records, a move that followed her decision to remain independent rather than sign with Interscope without T.I.'s involvement. The same month saw the release of "Murda Bizness," the intended lead single for "The New Classic," featuring T.I. himself.
April 2012: Announcement of EP "Glory" and Interactive Music Video
April 2012 saw Iggy Azalea announce plans for "Glory," an EP scheduled for a May release. Adding to her innovative approach, she starred in the world's first fully interactive shoppable music video for SSENSE, a Canadian fashion retailer, alongside Diplo and FKi.
May 2012: Label Negotiations and Collaboration with Steve Aoki and Angger Dimas
May 2012 brought confirmation that Iggy Azalea, while signed to Grand Hustle Records, was still finalizing distribution, effectively making her a "free agent." Negotiations with other labels, including Def Jam Recordings, were underway. May also saw the release of "Beat Down," an electronic track where Azalea collaborated with Steve Aoki and Angger Dimas.
June 2012: "Millionaire Misfits" Release
In June 2012, Iggy Azalea released "Millionaire Misfits", her second single from the EP "Glory".
July 2012: Breakup with ASAP Rocky
In July 2012, ASAP Rocky stated that he and Iggy Azalea were no longer dating. Azalea later removed her tattoo dedicated to their relationship after keeping it for years with the word A$AP crossed out.
July 2012: "Murda Bizness" Music Video and "Glory" EP Release
In July 2012, Iggy Azalea released the music video for "Murda Bizness". Later that month, she released her EP "Glory". She also joined the MTV Closer to My Dreams Tour.
September 2012: "TrapGold" Mixtape Announcement
In September 2012, Iggy Azalea announced the release of her second mixtape, "TrapGold", produced by Diplo and FKi.
October 2012: US Television Debut and "TrapGold" Release
In October 2012, Iggy Azalea made her first appearance on US national television at the BET Hip Hop Awards. She then released her mixtape "TrapGold" and went on tour with Rita Ora in North America and headlined her own tour in Europe.
December 2012: VH1 Divas Performance
In December 2012, Iggy Azalea performed on the annual television series VH1 Divas.
2012: Modeling Career Start
In 2012, Iggy Azalea signed with Wilhelmina Models, marking the start of her modeling career. She featured in various promotional ads and campaigns, including for Levi's 'Go Forth' campaign.
2012: Murda Bizness Video
In 2012, Azalea's music video for 'Murda Bizness' is reminiscent of the pageant culture shown in the reality series 'Toddlers & Tiaras.' The video is noted for its cinema-quality and comedic elements.
2012: Controversy Over 'D.R.U.G.S' Lyrics
In 2012, Iggy Azalea caused controversy for her song 'D.R.U.G.S,' a remix of Kendrick Lamar's 'Look Out for Detox.' She adapted a lyric to 'When the relay starts, I'm a runaway slave / Master,' leading to accusations of insensitivity and cultural appropriation. Azalea later issued an apology online.
February 2013: "Work" Premiere and Record Deal
In February 2013, Iggy Azalea premiered her commercial debut single "Work" and signed a record deal with Mercury Records.
February 2013: Obtained U.S. Visa
In February 2013, Iggy Azalea was granted a five-year O visa, allowing her to legally work in the United States.
March 2013: "Work" Music Video Release and Life Is Good Tour
In March 2013, Iggy Azalea released the music video for "Work" and joined Nas on his European Life Is Good Tour.
April 2013: Vevo LIFT Artist, "Bounce" Premiere, "Change Your Life" Announcement and Record Deal
In April 2013, Iggy Azalea was announced as Vevo's LIFT artist. She premiered her single "Bounce" and announced her third single "Change Your Life", featuring T.I. She also signed a solo record deal with Island Def Jam.
May 2013: Radio 1's Big Weekend Performance
In May 2013, Iggy Azalea performed at Radio 1's Big Weekend in Derry, Northern Ireland, marking the start of her UK pre-album promotional appearances.
June 2013: Album Completion and September Release Confirmation
In June 2013, Iggy Azalea confirmed that her debut album was nearly finished and slated for release in September 2013.
July 2013: Beyoncé Tour Announcement
In July 2013, Iggy Azalea announced that she would open for Beyoncé on the Australian leg of her Mrs. Carter Show World Tour.
August 2013: "Change Your Life" Premiere
In August 2013, Iggy Azalea premiered her single "Change Your Life", featuring T.I., on BBC Radio 1Xtra.
October 2013: BET's 106 & Park Appearance and Album Delay
In October 2013, Iggy Azalea made her first appearance on BET's 106 & Park. She also revealed that her debut album release was delayed until March 2014 due to scheduling conflicts.
November 2013: Beginning of Relationship with Nick Young
Iggy Azalea began dating Los Angeles Lakers basketball player Nick Young in November 2013.
November 2013: MTV Europe Music Awards Performance
In November 2013, Iggy Azalea performed "Blurred Lines" with Robin Thicke at the MTV Europe Music Awards.
December 2013: "Leave It" Leak
In December 2013, an unfinished Iggy Azalea song titled "Leave It" was leaked.
2013: Showgirls Homage
In 2013, Iggy Azalea's music video for 'Change Your Life' paid homage to the film 'Showgirls' from 1995. Her work is often noted for its cinema-quality and comedic satire.
February 2014: "Fancy" Premiere and Release
In February 2014, Iggy Azalea premiered "Fancy", featuring Charli XCX, and revealed it as the previously leaked song "Leave It". It was released as the fourth single from her debut album.
March 2014: "The New Classic" Release Date
In March 2014, Iggy Azalea announced the release date for her debut album, "The New Classic".
March 2014: GQ Magazine Feature
In March 2014, Azalea and Young were featured together in GQ magazine.
April 2014: "Fancy" Music Video Release and "The New Classic" Release
In April 2014, Iggy Azalea released the music video for "Fancy". Later that month, she released her debut album, "The New Classic", which debuted at number three on the Billboard 200.
April 2014: "Problem" and "Booty" Features
In April 2014, Iggy Azalea was featured on Ariana Grande's single "Problem" and Jennifer Lopez's single "Booty".
May 2014: "Fancy" Billboard Success
In May 2014, Iggy Azalea's "Fancy" reached number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. That same day, "Problem" reached number two, making Azalea the only artist since the Beatles to simultaneously hold the top two spots on the Billboard Hot 100 with her first two entries.
June 2014: "Black Widow" Release
In June 2014, Iggy Azalea's song "Black Widow", featuring Rita Ora, was released as the fifth single from "The New Classic".
July 2014: MTV House of Style Host
In July 2014, MTV announced that Iggy Azalea would be the host of the revived 'House of Style.' This marked a significant step in her career as a public figure.
October 2014: Forever 21 Holiday Campaign
In October 2014, Azalea and her boyfriend Nick Young were announced as the new faces of Forever 21's 2014 holiday campaign. This further solidified her presence in the fashion world.
November 2014: Maxim Hot 100 and Grammy Nominations
Iggy Azalea topped the Maxim Hot 100 list in Australia in November 2014. She also received several Grammy Award nominations, including Best New Artist and Record of the Year.
November 2014: "Reclassified" Release
In November 2014, Iggy Azalea released a reissue of "The New Classic" titled "Reclassified", featuring five new songs.
December 2014: Announcing The Great Escape Tour and Second Studio Album
On December 2014, Iggy Azalea took to Twitter to announce her plans for a 2015 arena tour, The Great Escape Tour, themed around the concept of her being a "musical escape artist". She also revealed that the tour would promote her upcoming second studio album, which shared a thematic connection with the tour's title.
2014: Release of Debut Album "The New Classic" and Chart Success
In 2014, Iggy Azalea released her debut album, "The New Classic," which achieved international success and topped the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. This made her the first non-American female rapper to do so. The album included hit singles like "Work," "Fancy," and "Black Widow."
2014: XXL Freshman Class and Award Recognition
In 2014, Iggy Azalea made history as the first female and non-American rapper on XXL's "Top 10 Freshman List." She also earned two American Music Awards and received numerous nominations.
2014: Kill Bill Homage
In 2014, Azalea's music video for 'Black Widow' paid homage to the film 'Kill Bill' from 2003. Her videos are often noted for their cinema-quality and comedic elements.
January 2015: Beginning Work on Second Studio Album
Iggy Azalea began working on her second studio album in January 2015.
February 2015: Shoe Collection Unveiled
In February 2015, Iggy Azalea's shoe collection was unveiled. This was part of her growing influence in the fashion industry.
March 2015: Breast Augmentation Revelation
In March 2015, Iggy Azalea revealed in an interview with Vogue that she had undergone breast augmentation. She initially resolved not to discuss it publicly but later decided against keeping it a secret.
April 2015: Bonds 100th-birthday Ambassador
In April 2015, Azalea signed on to be the 100th-birthday ambassador for the Australian underwear and clothing company Bonds. This was a notable endorsement in her career.
May 2015: "Pretty Girls" Release and Tour Cancellation
May 2015 saw the release of "Pretty Girls," a collaborative single by Iggy Azalea and Britney Spears. However, it was also announced that The Great Escape Tour would be canceled, with plans for a new tour in 2016 to coincide with her new album release. Azalea explained this decision stemmed from a "creative change of heart" and a desire to refine her sound and visuals.
June 1, 2015: Engagement to Nick Young
On June 1, 2015, Iggy Azalea and Los Angeles Lakers basketball player Nick Young announced their engagement.
August 2015: Rhinoplasty Discussion
In August 2015, Azalea talked about having a Rhinoplasty in an interview with Seventeen magazine. She discussed the emotional journey of plastic surgery and the importance of self-acceptance.
October 2015: Revealing "Digital Distortion"
In October 2015, Iggy Azalea revealed "Digital Distortion" as the initial title for her second album.
2015: Billboard Recognition and Award Nominations
In 2015, Iggy Azalea was recognized on Billboard's Year-End charts and received numerous award nominations.
2015: Pretty Girls Video
In 2015, Azalea's music video for 'Pretty Girls' paid homage to the film 'Earth Girls Are Easy' from 1988. The video is noted for its high-quality cinematic elements and satire.
2015: Continued Success and Awards
Iggy Azalea's success continued in 2015, winning a People's Choice Award and garnering multiple nominations for awards like the Billboard Music Awards and iHeartRadio Music Awards.
January 2016: "Azillion" Release
January 2016 saw the release of "Azillion," a buzz track from her upcoming album, available for free streaming on SoundCloud.
March 2016: "Team" Release and Azalea Street Productions Launch
March 2016 marked the release of "Team," the lead single from her upcoming album, accompanied by a dance video. A music video followed later in the month. Azalea also announced the launch of her production company, Azalea Street Productions, focusing on adapting books and television shows she enjoyed as a child.
June 2016: Joining "The X Factor Australia"
In June 2016, the Seven Network revealed Iggy Azalea as a new judge on "The X Factor Australia" for its eighth season, replacing Chris Isaak. The season ran from October to November 2016.
June 19, 2016: Split from Nick Young
On June 19, 2016, Iggy Azalea announced her separation from Nick Young following a leaked video of Young boasting about infidelity.
July 2016: Initial Album Release Date
Iggy Azalea's album was initially slated for a July 2016 release, but was later postponed to 2017.
July 2016: Azalea Street Productions Signs with NBCUniversal
In July 2016, Iggy Azalea announced that Azalea Street Productions had secured a deal with NBCUniversal to create original content.
September 2016: Album Delay and Personal Reasons
Iggy Azalea announced in September 2016 that her album release would be delayed to 2017, citing her recent breakup with fiancé Nick Young and a desire to create music reflecting her current emotional state.
2016: GQ Australia Woman of the Year
Iggy Azalea was honored as Woman of the Year by GQ Australia in 2016.
2016: Addressing Criticism and Announcing 'Digital Distortion'
In 2016, Iggy Azalea addressed various criticisms against her, including racial controversies and sexism, while announcing her second album 'Digital Distortion.' She discussed the concept of the album, which aimed to address these criticisms, and credited support from fellow rappers as her motivation.
February 2017: "Bad Girls Gone" Film Option
It was announced in February 2017 that Azalea Street Productions had optioned the book "Bad Girls Gone" for film adaptation, with Azalea set to produce.
March 2017: "Mo Bounce" Release
Iggy Azalea released the single "Mo Bounce" in March 2017.
May 2017: "Switch" Release and Performance
May 2017 saw the release of "Switch," a collaboration with Brazilian singer Anitta. Azalea promoted the single with a performance at the 2017 iHeartRadio Much Music Video Awards.
November 2017: New Label and "Surviving the Summer" Announcement
In November 2017, Iggy Azalea announced her signing with a new label and revealed the title of her second album, "Surviving the Summer." She also released four new tracks for free download, often referred to as the "4 My Ratz" mixtape or EP.
January 2018: "Savior" Announcement
Iggy Azalea revealed "Savior," featuring Quavo, as the lead single from "Surviving the Summer" in January 2018.
February 2018: "Savior" Release
"Savior," the lead single from Iggy Azalea's "Surviving the Summer," was released in February 2018.
March 2018: Permanent U.S. Residence
In March 2018, Iggy Azalea was approved for permanent residence in the United States. This marked a significant milestone in her personal and professional life.
June 2018: "Survive the Summer" EP Format and Delays
Iggy Azalea announced in June 2018 that "Survive the Summer" would be an EP and explained the release date postponements were due to a change in presidency at her record label, Island Records.
August 2018: "Survive the Summer" Release
Iggy Azalea's EP, "Survive the Summer," was released in August 2018 and debuted at number 144 on the Billboard 200.
November 2018: Departure from Island Records and New Label
In November 2018, Iggy Azalea announced her departure from Island Records and the establishment of her own record label, initially called New Classic Records.
2018: Release of EP "Survive the Summer" and Label Change
In 2018, Iggy Azalea released the EP "Survive the Summer" under Island Records after conflicts with her previous label. She later became an independent artist.
2018: Monster Products Spokesperson
In 2018, Azalea was announced as Monster Products's new spokesperson and starred in their Super Bowl LII commercial. This marked a significant endorsement in her career.
2018: Became a Permanent U.S. Resident
Iggy Azalea was approved as a permanent resident of the United States in 2018.
2018: Beginning of Relationship with Playboi Carti
Iggy Azalea began dating American rapper Playboi Carti in late 2018.
2018: Comments on Racism and Music
In 2018, Iggy Azalea claimed that the history of racism in the United States caused audiences to dismiss her. She emphasized her hard work and reiterated her commitment to making music that reflects social issues while also providing an escape for listeners.
January 2019: Bad Dreams Record Label
In January 2019, Iggy Azalea renamed her record label to Bad Dreams.
February 2019: "In My Defense" Completion and "Sally Walker" Announcement
Iggy Azalea announced the completion of her second studio album, "In My Defense," in early February 2019, with plans for a spring release. Later that month, she revealed "Sally Walker" as the album's first single.
March 2019: "Sally Walker" Success and Promotion
By the end of March 2019, "Sally Walker" had amassed significant attention online, garnering over 38 million views on YouTube and debuting on Billboard's Hot 100 chart at number 62. Azalea promoted the song with a performance on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" during its Las Vegas shows.
May 2019: "Started" and "Boys Like You" Release
May 2019 saw the release of "Started," the second single from "In My Defense," along with its music video. A collaborative track with VVAVES titled "Boys Like You" was also released.
June 2019: "In My Defense" Release Date and Pre-orders
Iggy Azalea announced on Twitter that "In My Defense" would be released on July 19, 2019, with pre-orders beginning on June 28, 2019.
July 2019: "In My Defense" Release
Iggy Azalea's second studio album, "In My Defense," was released on July 19, 2019.
September 2019: New EP Announcement and Future Plans
In September 2019, Iggy Azalea revealed her plans to release a new extended play, later titled "Wicked Lips." She expressed uncertainty about touring for "In My Defense" but shared her intention to start recording new material in September for a potential release the following year.
November 2019: "Wicked Lips" Initial Release Date
Iggy Azalea initially planned to release her EP "Wicked Lips" on November 15, 2019, following the release of its lead single, "Lola." However, the EP's release was delayed.
December 2019: Split from Playboi Carti
Iggy Azalea and Playboi Carti reportedly ended their relationship in December 2019.
2019: Romy and Michele's High School Reunion Homage
In 2019, Azalea's music video for 'Fuck It Up' paid homage to the film 'Romy and Michele's High School Reunion' from 1997. Her videos are often noted for their cinema-quality and comedic satire.
2019: Release of Second Album "In My Defense" and EP "Wicked Lips"
Iggy Azalea released her second studio album, "In My Defense," and another EP, "Wicked Lips," in 2019.
June 2020: Birth of Son
In June 2020, Iggy Azalea announced the birth of her son, fathered by Playboi Carti.
August 2020: "Dance Like Nobody's Watching" Release and Album Announcement
Iggy Azalea announced her third studio album, "The End of an Era," and released "Dance Like Nobody's Watching," a collaboration with Tinashe, as the original lead single in August 2020.
2020: Rolling Stone Australia Recognition
In 2020, Iggy Azalea was featured in Rolling Stone Australia's "50 Greatest Australian Artists of All Time" issue.
April 2021: "Sip It" Release
Following the underperformance of "Dance Like Nobody's Watching," it was scrapped from the album. Iggy Azalea released "Sip It" with Tyga as the new lead single for "The End of an Era" in April 2021.
June 2021: "The End of an Era" Release Window and Tour Announcement
Iggy Azalea indicated a June 2021 release for "The End of an Era" and was announced as an opening act on Pitbull's "I Feel Good Tour." However, the album's release was postponed to August of the same year.
July 2021: Announcement of Hiatus
Iggy Azalea announced in July 2021 that she would take a hiatus from music after the release of "The End of an Era."
2021: Release of Third Album "The End of an Era"
Iggy Azalea released her third studio album, "The End of an Era," in 2021.
2021: Blackfishing Allegations
In 2021, after releasing the music video for her song 'Iam the Stripclub,' Iggy Azalea faced accusations of blackfishing on Twitter. Azalea called these allegations 'ridiculous and baseless,' stating she had worn the same Armani foundation for years. Her makeup artist, Eros J. Gomez, also defended her on Twitter.
August 2022: Resuming Music Career
On August 8, 2022, Iggy Azalea announced her return to making music, a year after her announced hiatus.
August 2023: Letter for Tory Lanez
In August 2023, Iggy Azalea submitted a letter to court on behalf of Tory Lanez ahead of his sentencing for shooting rapper Megan Thee Stallion. She vouched for Lanez's character, stating that he had always been respectful towards her and that she refused to believe he would act maliciously towards a woman.
July 2024: Sole Parenthood
By July 2024, Azalea stated that she was effectively the sole parent to her child.
2024: Announcement of Retirement from Music
In 2024, Iggy Azalea announced her retirement from music on social media, as reported by Billboard.
2024: Retirement From Music
In 2024, Iggy Azalea announced her retirement from music.