Elkka
Welsh singer-songwriter (born 1988)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Emma Kirby (born 1988, in Cardiff), known as Elkka, is a Welsh producer, vocalist, and DJ.[1] With a background of songwriter and vocalist for Elkka is best known for winning the Essential Mix of the Year (BBC1) in 2021. She is also known as the co-founder of femme culture, which she founded with her partner Alex Lambert, an inclusive queer platform.[2] The label organizes the annual HeForShe compilation,[3] and all profits go to the charity U.N. Women.[4]
Elkka | |
|---|---|
| Born | Emma Kirby 1988 |
| Origin | Cardiff, Wales |
| Years active | 2016–present |
| Labels |
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| Website | www |
Early life
Born in Cardiff, Wales, Elkka started her career as a songwriter.[1][5][6] She grew up listening to RnB, pop stars such as Britney Spears, Spice Girls, Rihanna and wanted to become a pop vocalist.[7][8] In 2016, Elkka switched from writing to producing music after being inspired by musicians such as Laurie Anderson and Imogen Heap.[1]
Career
Elkka has released music on Local Action, Ninja Tune, and her own label femme culture as well as providing remixes for Kelly Lee Owens,[9] Hector Plimmer,[10] and Ela Minus.[11]
In May 2021, her extended play (EP), Euphoric Melodies, was released.[12] It is a fusion of house and electronica genres.[7]
In November 2021, her second EP, Harmonic Melodies, was released under the Technicolor imprint.[13] In the same year, she received Essential Mix of the Year award.[14][13] Following her award for Essential Mix of the Year 2021 for BBC Radio 1, Elkka was made BBC Radio 1 Resident in April 2022, alongside Ben UFO, Andy C, TSHA, and others.[15]
In August 2021 Elkka won the Association of Independent Music award for Best Independent Remix for her remix of Ela Minus - Megapunk.[16]
In November 2021 Elkka was nominated in the DJ Mag Awards for Best Breakthrough Producer.[17]
On tour, Elkka has supported Caribou and Jon Hopkins,[18] and she has played at significant venues and festivals including Glastonbury Festival,[19] All Points East,[20] and O2 Academy Brixton.[21][22]
In June 2024 Elkka released her debut album, Prism of Pleasure, under Ninja Tune.[23]
Elkka is also known for founding a record label named femme culture.[24] The label organizes the annual HeForShe compilation with the help of UN Women.[24][25]
Discography
Awards and nominations
BBC Radio 1 Awards
| Year | Award | Nominated work | Category | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | BBC Radio 1 | Elkka | Essential Mix of the Year | Won |
Other Awards
- AIM Independent Remix of the Year (2021)
- Nominated Breakthrough Producer of The Year in the DJ Mag Awards (2021)[30]