Today’s Birthday Spotlight: Celebrating Rita Ora’s Special Day!

Rita Ora: From Kosovo Roots to Global Pop Sensation

Early Life and Family Background:

Source: Google Images

Rita Sahatçiu Ora was born on November 26, 1990 (age 34), in Pristina, then part of SFR Yugoslavia (modern-day Kosovo). Her parents, Vera (née Bajraktari) and Besnik Sahatçiu, are of Albanian descent. In 1991, amid political unrest, her family relocated to London, England, seeking a safer environment. Rita grew up in West London, where her father owned a pub, and her mother worked as a psychiatrist. She attended St Cuthbert with St Matthias CE Primary School in Earls Court and later graduated from the Sylvia Young Theatre School, nurturing her passion for performing arts from a young age.

Before Fame:

Rita’s early exposure to music and performance led her to participate in open mic sessions around London. She made her first television appearance in 2004 in the British film “Spivs.” In 2008, she auditioned for the Eurovision Song Contest to represent the United Kingdom but withdrew, feeling unprepared for the competition. Undeterred, Rita continued to pursue her music career, performing at various venues and honing her craft.

Rise to Stardom:

Rita’s breakthrough came in 2012 when she featured on DJ Fresh’s single “Hot Right Now,” which topped the UK Singles Chart. That same year, she released her debut studio album, “Ora,” under Roc Nation, Jay-Z’s label. The album debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart and included hit singles like “R.I.P.” and “How We Do (Party),” both reaching number one in the UK. Her success continued with collaborations, notably featuring on Iggy Azalea’s “Black Widow” in 2014, which peaked at number three on the US Billboard Hot 100. In 2018, she released her second studio album, “Phoenix,” featuring popular tracks such as “Your Song” and “Let You Love Me.” The latter made her the first British female solo artist to have thirteen top-ten songs in the United Kingdom.

Fun Facts:

  • In 2015, Rita was appointed an Honorary Ambassador of Kosovo, recognizing her contributions to the arts and her role in promoting the country internationally.
  • Beyond music, she has ventured into acting, playing Mia Grey in the “Fifty Shades” film series and appearing in other films and television shows.
  • Rita has served as a judge and coach on various talent shows, including “The X Factor UK,” “The Voice UK,” and “The Masked Singer UK.”

Where Is She Now?

As of November 2024, Rita Ora remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. She continues to release music, with her third studio album, “You & I,” debuting at number six in the UK in 2023. Rita is also involved in various television projects, serving as a judge on “The Masked Singer UK” and “The Masked Singer US.” In her personal life, she married director Taika Waititi in 2022, and the couple often collaborates on creative projects. Rita is also known for her philanthropic efforts, supporting causes related to education, health, and the arts. Her journey from a young girl in Kosovo to an international pop star and actress continues to inspire many around the world.

By :