Ego Ella May is a British-Nigerian singer-songwriter celebrated for her unique blend of neo-soul, R&B, and contemporary jazz, which reflects her rich heritage and personal experiences. Emerging from the vibrant South London jazz scene, her introspective lyrics and captivating live performances have earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
Ego Ella May is a British-Nigerian singer-songwriter and musician who has established herself as a significant voice in the contemporary music scene, particularly within the South London jazz community. Her artistry blends neo-soul, R&B, and contemporary jazz into a distinctive sound that has garnered critical acclaim.
Ego Ella May was born in 1992 in Croydon, South London. Her name carries significant meaning that reflects her heritage and musical influences. Her first name "Ego" (pronounced "eh-go") honors her Nigerian roots, as her parents emigrated from Nigeria. Her middle name "Ella May" pays homage to jazz legend Ella Fitzgerald, who was a family favorite and likely an early influence on her musical direction.
Growing up in South London, May discovered her passion for music relatively late, beginning her musical journey in her late teens. She was self-motivated in developing her skills, teaching herself guitar, beat-making, and music production by the age of 19. Her musical influences span across generations and genres, including iconic artists like Stevie Wonder and Ella Fitzgerald, as well as 90s R&B groups such as Destiny's Child and Mary J. Blige.
At the core of Ego Ella May's artistry is a deep passion and respect for jazz. Her sound is characterized by a genre-blending approach that incorporates elements of neo-soul, R&B, and contemporary jazz compositions. This eclectic mix creates a rich, mature sound that has become her signature style.
May's songwriting process is deeply personal and reflective. She has stated, "I write what's on my mind, or if I have a burning desire to write." She draws inspiration from both solitary reflective moments and conversations with friends, channeling these experiences into her music with effortless power and unique voicing. Her approach to creativity is also informed by her reading habits, as she believes that reading novels, poetry, and books about her history enhances her writing abilities.
Ego Ella May began her recording career with the release of her first EP, "Breathing Underwater," in 2014. This was followed by her debut full-length LP, "So Far," in 2019. However, it was her 2020 album, "Honey for Wounds," that truly established her presence in the jazz scene and brought her wider recognition.
May has grown alongside London's vibrant jazz scene, collaborating with notable musicians such as Oscar Jerome, Joe Armon-Jones (of Ezra Collective), Wu-Lu, and Eddie Hick (of Sons of Kemet). Her approach to recording often involves working with live instruments in impromptu jam settings, which contributes to the organic feel of her music.
Beyond recording, live performance is a crucial aspect of May's artistry. She values the connection with her audience and the opportunity to share her music in a live setting. May has expressed that she feels most comfortable when performing with her band, which allows her to "dance around whilst they play really sick versions of the tunes." She appreciates how live performances enable experimentation with her beat-oriented compositions, transforming them into "nice live instrument friendly piece[s]."
Ego Ella May has been recognized as an award-winning artist and has received support from influential figures in the music industry. Soul legend Omar tipped her as "one to watch," while radio personalities such as Bradley Zero (BBC Radio 1), Jamz Supernova (BBC Radio 1), and Gilles Peterson (BBC 6Music) have championed her music. Her work has also been featured in prominent publications including The New York Times, Noisey, and Clash Magazine.
May's lyrics often explore themes of self-reflection and social issues, with a particular focus on healing and personal growth. She has expressed admiration for artists who show vulnerability through their music, stating, "It's so easy to lie to yourself and others, so I really admire people who have the audacity to be truthful." This appreciation for authenticity is evident in her own work, which often reveals personal truths and emotional depth.
As of 2025, Ego Ella May continues to be an important voice in the contemporary music landscape, particularly within the "South London Jazz Scene," where her introspective songwriting and genre-blending sound have established her as a distinctive and influential artist.
