La Roux

Introduction:

La Roux is a British electropop project that initially gained widespread recognition in 2009 with their self-titled debut album. Known for their distinctive fusion of electronic and pop sounds, La Roux became a defining act of the late 2000s electropop resurgence. Originally a duo consisting of Elly Jackson and Ben Langmaid, La Roux is now the solo project of Jackson following Langmaid's departure. The project is celebrated for its catchy hooks, androgynous aesthetic, and chart-topping hits such as "Bulletproof" and "In for the Kill."

Early Life and Background:

 Elly Jackson was born on March 8, 1988, in London, England, to actress Trudie Goodwin, best known for her role as June Ackland in The Bill. Jackson grew up in Herne Hill, London, and faced bullying during her school years, which influenced her sense of resilience and individuality. Her musical influences were shaped by her parents' record collection, featuring artists like Nick Drake and Carole King. During her time at Tabor Academy in the United States, she began experimenting with both folk and electronic music. Jackson briefly attended the University of Nottingham before leaving to pursue her music career.

Ben Langmaid, a London-based producer, played an integral role in La Roux's early sound. Before forming La Roux, Langmaid worked with Rollo Armstrong of Faithless and was part of various projects under pseudonyms such as Atomic and Huff & Herb.

Music Career:

La Roux officially formed in 2006 after Elly Jackson and Ben Langmaid were introduced by a mutual friend. Initially performing acoustic music under the name Automan, the duo transitioned to an electronic sound and rebranded as La Roux. Drawing inspiration from 1980s synth-pop pioneers like Yazoo, Heaven 17, and The Human League, La Roux crafted a style that was both nostalgic and contemporary.

Their debut single, "Quicksand," was released in 2008 under Kitsuné Music, followed by a record deal with Polydor. The breakthrough came with the release of "In for the Kill" in 2009, which became a chart success, boosted by a popular remix by Skream. The subsequent single, "Bulletproof," topped the UK Singles Chart and solidified La Roux's place in pop music. Their debut album, La Roux, earned critical acclaim and was nominated for the 2009 Mercury Prize. Tracks like "Tigerlily" and "I'm Not Your Toy" further showcased their innovative sound.

La Roux supported acts like Lily Allen and headlined the NME Radar Tour, gaining international exposure. In the United States, they performed on prominent shows such as Jimmy Kimmel Live. In 2011, the album won a Grammy Award for Best Electronic/Dance Album.

In 2014, La Roux returned as a solo project with the release of Trouble in Paradise. The album marked a stylistic shift, incorporating funk and disco elements. Despite critical praise, the album did not achieve the same commercial success as its predecessor. Tracks like "Uptight Downtown" and "Let Me Down Gently" highlighted Jackson's evolving artistry.

After a hiatus, La Roux released their third album, Supervision, in 2020. The album featured a more minimalistic production style, with songs like "International Woman of Leisure" and "Gullible Fool."

Personal Life:

 Elly Jackson has been candid about her struggles with fame and the pressures of the music industry. Known for her androgynous style and striking quiff hairstyle, Jackson has cited influences like Annie Lennox, Madonna, and Molly Ringwald in shaping her visual and musical identity. She has also been vocal about mental health and self-expression, often challenging traditional gender norms in her work and public appearances.

Legacy and Influence:

La Roux's impact on electropop and contemporary music is significant. Their innovative use of retro synthesizers and heartfelt lyrics inspired a wave of electronic artists in the 2010s. Tracks like "Bulletproof" have become anthems of resilience and individuality, often featured in films, television, and advertisements. Elly Jackson's bold aesthetic and refusal to conform to industry standards have made her a role model for many aspiring artists.

Recent Activities:
Since the release of Supervision in 2020, La Roux has continued to perform at festivals and intimate venues, connecting with fans through live performances. Jackson has hinted at new music and collaborations, though no official announcements have been made as of early 2025. Beyond music, she remains an advocate for mental health awareness and creative freedom.