M.I.A., born Mathangi Arulpragasam, is a British artist and activist of Tamil Sri Lankan descent. She spent her early childhood in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, during the Sri Lankan Civil War, before fleeing the conflict with her family. The experience of displacement profoundly shaped her worldview and artistic voice. Her family resettled in London, where she faced the challenges of adapting to a new culture as a refugee. M.I.A. attended Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in London, where she studied fine art, film, and video. Initially aspiring to become a visual artist, she started her career in filmmaking and graphic design before venturing into music. M.I.A. emerged in the early 2000s as a boundary-breaking artist who fused hip-hop, electronic, worldbeat, and politically charged lyrics. Her music blends global influences, including South Asian beats, African rhythms, and Western electronic sounds. Her debut album was a critical success, named after her father’s revolutionary alias. It featured hit tracks like "Sunshowers" and "Galang," introducing her unique sound and socio-political commentary. Named after her mother, "Kala" was recorded in various countries, reflecting her global perspective. The album included the smash hit "Paper Planes," which earned widespread acclaim for its catchy hook and satirical take on immigration and capitalism. - "Maya" (2010): Featuring experimental tracks like "XXXO", the album explored themes of technology and surveillance. - "Matangi" (2013): A self-referential work that delved into her Tamil heritage and spiritual identity. - "AIM" (2016): A more personal and reflective album that chronicled her life experiences. Her discography and artistry have been celebrated for pushing boundaries and challenging traditional notions of Pop and Hip-Hop. M.I.A. has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including GRAMMY, Academy Award, and Mercury Prize nominations. Her music has been a voice for the marginalized, addressing themes such as war, displacement, and identity. In 2009, she was listed on TIME magazine's list of the 100 most influential people in the world. M.I.A. is as well-known for her activism as for her music. She has used her platform to raise awareness about issues such as refugee rights, war, and freedom of speech. Her outspoken nature has often drawn controversy, but it has solidified her reputation as a fearless artist committed to speaking truth to power. M.I.A.’s impact transcends music. As a cultural icon, she has bridged the gap between global sounds and Western pop culture. Her distinctive style and message have inspired a new generation of artists to blend activism with art. M.I.A. has a son, Ikhyd, with her former fiancé Benjamin Bronfman. She continues to create, innovate, and advocate for social justice through her art. M.I.A. remains an enduring figure in the music industry, celebrated for her boundary-pushing creativity and unyielding commitment to her values.