La Roux

La Roux is the synth-pop project of British singer, songwriter, and record producer Elly Jackson, recognized for her sharp-edged songwriting and distinctive vocals that contributed to the resurgence of 1980s-inspired electronic pop music. The act was formed by Jackson and record producer Ben Langmaid, initially under the name Automan, focusing on acoustic music before transitioning to a synth-pop sound and adopting the name La Roux, which means "red-haired one" in French. Influences include Eurythmics, Depeche Mode, The Human League, Heaven 17, Yazoo, and Prince.

La Roux's debut album, "La Roux," achieved both critical and commercial success, earning a Grammy Award and producing hit singles such as "In for the Kill" and "Bulletproof." The album was nominated for the Mercury Prize, reached number two on the UK Albums Chart, and was certified platinum by the British Phonographic Industry. The single "Bulletproof" reached number one, and the act received two BRIT Award nominations, including Best Single for "In for the Kill."

Following Ben Langmaid's departure, Jackson faced challenges including significant voice loss due to anxiety and performance-related tension. After medical consultation and recovery, Jackson released the second album, "Trouble in Paradise," continuing under the La Roux name. The album, featuring disco and reggae influences, debuted at number six on the UK Albums Chart and reached number 20 on the Billboard 200, topping the Dance/Electronic Albums Chart in the United States.

After parting ways with Polydor, Jackson pursued a more independent path, collaborating with artists such as New Order on "Music Complete," Whyte Horses on "Empty Words" and "Hard Times," and Tyler, the Creator on "IGOR." Jackson established her own label, Supercolour Records, and released the third studio album, "Supervision." With "Supervision," Jackson continued to explore electronic pop, blending retro influences with contemporary production.

La Roux's influence extended into other genres when UK drill rapper Tion Wayne sampled "In for the Kill" in the single "IFTK," with Jackson credited as a co-lead artist. The track reached number six on the UK singles chart. Jackson also collaborated with Chromeo on the single "Replacements" and a new version of "Bulletproof" titled "Discoproof."

Elly Jackson's career with La Roux is marked by a Grammy Award, multiple chart-topping singles, and ongoing collaborations across the electronic and pop music landscape, establishing her as a significant figure in British electronic pop.