Iggy Azalea, born Amethyst Amelia Kelly, is an Australian rapper, singer, songwriter, and model who shot to fame with her hit single “Fancy” in 2014. Known for her bold style, unapologetic attitude, and chart-topping hits, Iggy has carved a unique space for herself in the music industry. But beyond her music and public persona, there’s so much more to this fierce artist. Dive into these 18 juicy facts about Iggy Azalea that will surprise, amuse, and entertain you!
1. From Australia to America: Iggy’s Bold Move
Iggy Azalea moved to the United States at just 16 years old to pursue her dreams of becoming a rapper. She told her parents she was going on a holiday but had no intention of returning. Talk about commitment! Gossip has it that her parents only found out about her plan when she was already across the Pacific. She landed in Miami, a city she had only seen in movies, and with a thick Australian accent and little knowledge of American culture, she navigated her way into the hip-hop scene. Her bold move was driven by a fierce determination to make it big, and she hasn’t looked back since.
2. She Worked as a House Cleaner
Before making it big, Iggy worked as a house cleaner to support herself in the U.S. Imagine the future star of “Fancy” scrubbing toilets! She’s admitted that cleaning houses was her least favorite job but it paid the bills. Rumor has it she used to rap while vacuuming—her own form of practice. These humble beginnings only make her rise to fame more impressive. She’s shared stories about the people she worked for, some of whom were less than kind. Her experience as a cleaner gave her a unique perspective on life and fueled her desire to succeed.
3. Her Stage Name Has a Unique Origin
Iggy Azalea’s stage name is a combination of her childhood dog’s name, Iggy, and the street she grew up on, Azalea Street. It’s a quirky and personal touch that fans love. It’s also rumored that the name Iggy was chosen because the dog once saved her from a snake! This blend of nostalgia and personal history gives her stage name a special significance. She’s often spoken about how much she loved that dog and how her childhood environment shaped her. Her stage name serves as a constant reminder of where she came from and the journey she’s been on.
4. She’s a High School Dropout
Iggy dropped out of high school to focus on her music career, a risky move that paid off. She believes traditional education wasn’t for her and that her real learning happened in the music industry. She often jokes that she’s got a “PhD in Hustle.” Her decision to leave school at such a young age was controversial, but it highlights her dedication to her craft. She’s shared stories of how she would spend hours writing lyrics and perfecting her rap skills instead of attending classes. Her unconventional path to success is a testament to following one’s passion, no matter the odds.
5. “Fancy” Wasn’t Meant for Her
Believe it or not, the song “Fancy” was initially offered to another artist. Lucky for Iggy, they turned it down, and it became her breakout hit. The song’s iconic Clueless-inspired music video further cemented its place in pop culture. She has mentioned in interviews how she immediately connected with the song and knew it was perfect for her style. “Fancy” not only topped the charts but also became an anthem for many. It’s fascinating to think how different her career might have been if another artist had taken the song.
6. Feuds and Friendships: A Rollercoaster Ride
Iggy has had her fair share of public feuds, including ones with Azealia Banks and Snoop Dogg. These clashes have kept her in the headlines, though she’s always managed to come out on top. On the flip side, she’s also formed close friendships with stars like Britney Spears, with whom she collaborated on “Pretty Girls.” Her feud with Snoop Dogg started over a meme he posted, which led to a back-and-forth on social media. Despite these public spats, Iggy remains resilient and continues to thrive in the industry. Her ability to navigate these relationships shows her strength and adaptability.
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7. She’s a Social Media Maven
Iggy’s social media presence is as bold as her music. She’s known for her witty tweets and Instagram posts. Her feud with Snoop Dogg even started on Instagram when he posted a meme about her, which she didn’t take too kindly. She has a knack for engaging with her fans and often uses social media to share her thoughts, promote her music, and give glimpses into her personal life. Her candidness on these platforms has garnered her a loyal following. Whether she’s clapping back at haters or sharing behind-the-scenes moments, Iggy’s social media game is always on point.
8. Plastic Surgery Confessions
Iggy has been open about undergoing plastic surgery, including a nose job and breast augmentation. She believes in being honest about her procedures, stating that everyone should feel good about themselves. This candor has earned her both criticism and praise. She’s mentioned how these surgeries have helped boost her confidence and how important it is to be transparent about such decisions. In an industry where image is everything, her honesty is refreshing. She hopes that by being open about her choices, she can encourage others to make decisions that are best for their own well-being.
9. She’s Got a Hidden Artistic Side
Apart from music, Iggy is also a talented visual artist. She often shares her sketches and paintings on social media. She once said that if she weren’t a rapper, she’d probably be an artist or designer. Who knew she had such a creative streak? Her artwork often reflects her bold personality and unique perspective. Fans have expressed interest in seeing more of her artistic side, and she’s hinted at possibly exploring this talent further in the future. Her ability to excel in multiple creative fields is a testament to her versatility and talent.
10. A Brief Acting Stint
Iggy made a cameo appearance in the 2015 film Furious 7, playing a street racer. Though her role was small, it showed her versatility and willingness to step out of her comfort zone. Fans speculate whether she’ll take on more acting roles in the future. Her brief stint in acting was met with mixed reviews, but it added another dimension to her already diverse career. She’s expressed interest in exploring more opportunities in film and television, and given her bold personality, it wouldn’t be surprising to see her on the big screen again.
11. Her Love Life is a Hot Topic
Iggy’s love life has always been a hot topic. She was famously engaged to NBA player Nick Young before a very public breakup. The split was riddled with cheating scandals and even a leaked video. Currently, she keeps her dating life more private, possibly learning from past experiences. Her relationship with Nick Young was highly publicized, and the drama surrounding their breakup was covered extensively by the media. Since then, she’s been more cautious about sharing details of her personal life. Despite the ups and downs, she remains optimistic about love and continues to focus on her career and son.
12. Motherhood Changed Her
Iggy became a mother in 2020 to a son named Onyx. She has shared how motherhood has changed her perspective on life and music. She often posts adorable pictures of her son, showing a softer side of the typically fierce rapper. Motherhood has brought new inspiration and motivation for Iggy, influencing her music and priorities. She’s talked about how becoming a parent has made her more mindful and grounded. Fans love seeing this nurturing side of Iggy, and she’s embraced her role as a mother with the same passion and determination she brings to her music.
13. She’s Faced Racism in the Industry
Being a white female rapper in a predominantly black genre, Iggy has faced her share of criticism and racism. She’s addressed these issues head-on, advocating for equality and inclusivity in the music industry. Her experiences have made her a vocal advocate for social justice. She’s used her platform to speak out against discrimination and has supported various initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion. Despite the challenges, Iggy remains committed to her craft and continues to push for positive change in the industry. Her resilience and dedication to equality are truly inspiring.
14. She’s a Reality TV Star
Iggy has dabbled in reality TV, appearing as a judge on The X Factor Australia. Her sharp critiques and no-nonsense attitude made her a hit with viewers. She brought a fresh perspective to the show and was praised for her constructive feedback. Her experience as a judge allowed her to mentor aspiring artists and share her industry knowledge. Iggy’s stint on The X Factor showcased her ability to connect with contestants and audiences alike. She’s hinted at possibly returning to reality TV in the future, and fans would undoubtedly welcome her back with open arms.
15. Her Tattoos Tell a Story
Iggy has several tattoos, each with its own story. She’s got everything from quotes to symbols, all representing different aspects of her life and career. Her body art is a reflection of her personal journey and the experiences that have shaped her. Each tattoo holds a special meaning, whether it’s a tribute to a loved one or a reminder of a significant event. Iggy’s tattoos are not just decorations; they are a part of her identity and a way for her to express herself. Fans often speculate about the meanings behind her tattoos, adding to her enigmatic persona.
16. She’s a Businesswoman
Iggy isn’t just a musician; she’s also a savvy businesswoman. She’s launched her own makeup line and has various endorsements. Her entrepreneurial spirit is just as fierce as her rapping. She’s involved in every aspect of her business ventures, from product development to marketing. Iggy’s makeup line has been well-received, and she’s continually expanding her brand. Her business acumen and ability to diversify her income streams have solidified her status as a multifaceted talent. She’s proven that she’s not just a one-hit-wonder but a force to be reckoned with in the business world.
17. She’s Been in Music Videos Before Fame
Before becoming a star, Iggy appeared in music videos for other artists. One notable appearance was in T.I.’s “Murda Bizness.” These early gigs gave her a taste of the industry and honed her on-screen presence. Working with established artists like T.I. provided her with valuable insights and experiences that helped shape her career. These early appearances also gave her exposure and helped her build connections in the music industry. Iggy’s journey from video extra to headliner is a testament to her hard work and determination. She’s come a long way since those early days, and her success is well-deserved.
18. She’s a Dog Lover
Iggy is a proud dog mom. She often shares photos of her adorable pups on social media, and they even make appearances in her music videos. Her love for dogs is evident, and she’s known to spoil them rotten. She’s mentioned how her dogs provide her with comfort and companionship, especially during stressful times. Iggy’s bond with her pets is heartwarming, and fans love seeing this softer side of her. Her dogs are an integral part of her life, and she’s often seen taking them on walks or cuddling with them at home. Her love for animals adds another layer to her dynamic personality.
So, there you have it—18 juicy facts about Iggy Azalea that you probably didn’t know! From her humble beginnings to her rise to stardom, Iggy’s journey is a testament to her talent, resilience, and determination. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering her music, there’s no denying that Iggy Azalea is a powerhouse in the world of hip-hop.