H.E.R.
USA- Early Life and Childhood
- First Performances and Recognition
- Early Career and Pseudonym
- Debut EP and Breakthrough
- Subsequent EPs and Album
- Sophomore Album and Festival Appearances
- Later Work and Recognition
- Personal Life and Relationships
- H.E.R. Today
- Discography
Early Life and Childhood
Gabrella Wilson (born June 27, 1997, in Vallejo, California) known as H.E.R., had an early interest in music, inspired by her father's passion for covers. At age 5, she began singing, and by 8, she had published her first poetry collection. Her parents' support played a crucial role in fostering her musical talents.
First Performances and Recognition
At just 9, Wilson performed the piano at the Apollo Theater in New York. She later appeared on the Today Show, where her musical abilities were recognized. Her performance caught the attention of Alicia Keys, who became her mentor and inspiration.
Early Career and Pseudonym
In 2009, Wilson made her creative breakthrough when she performed at the ASCAP Awards and became a finalist on Radio Disney. Despite gaining fans, she felt uncomfortable with the attention and desired to focus on her music rather than her personal life. She adopted the pseudonym H.E.R. (Having Everything Revealed), stating that her music would reveal her essence without the need for personal exposure.
Debut EP and Breakthrough
At age 14, Wilson signed with Sony Entertainment. After releasing "Something to Prove," she took a hiatus and returned in 2016 under the H.E.R. moniker. Her debut EP, "H.E.R. Volume 1," gained popularity without substantial promotion. Rihanna's Instagram post featuring "Focus" garnered significant attention, leading to support from celebrities such as Alicia Keys, Kehlani, and Usher.
Subsequent EPs and Album
The success of "H.E.R. Volume 1" was followed by "H.E.R. Volume 2" and "H.E.R. Volume 2, The B Sides." In 2017, her self-titled debut album hit #1 on the US Top R&B chart and won a Grammy Award, marking a major milestone in her career.
Sophomore Album and Festival Appearances
Her sophomore album, "I Used to Know Her," was preceded by several EPs. Wilson performed at the Global Citizen Festival and Rock in Rio shortly after its release.
Later Work and Recognition
In 2020, H.E.R. released "Damage" and "Hold Us Together," along with music videos. Following the tragedy of George Floyd's death, she wrote "I Can't Breathe," a song that became an anthem of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Personal Life and Relationships
Despite her increased public presence, H.E.R. remains private about her personal relationships. She has mentioned past romantic experiences that have influenced her music, but currently focuses on her career.
H.E.R. Today
Wilson received a Grammy Award for "Song of the Year" (for "I Can't Breathe") and "Best R&B Performance" (for "Better Than I Imagined" with Robert Glasper and Meshell Ndegeocello) in 2021. She continues to craft compelling music and connect with fans through her artistry.
Discography
2017: H.E.R.2019: I Used to Know Her
