Azealia Banks: From "212" to "Pitch Perfect"

Introduction

Azealia Banks is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and actress. She first gained recognition in 2011 with the release of her single "212". Banks has since released two studio albums, Broke with Expensive Taste (2014) and Fantasea II: The Second Wave (2018). She has also appeared in several films and television shows, including Pitch Perfect 2 (2015) and Black Box (2020).

Early Life and Career

Azealia Banks was born in Harlem, New York City, on May 31, 1991. She began rapping and singing at a young age, and she released her first mixtape, Fantasea, in 2012. The mixtape was a critical success, and it helped to raise Banks' profile in the music industry. In 2011, Banks signed a recording contract with Interscope Records. She released her debut single, "212", later that year. The song was a commercial success, and it peaked at number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Studio Albums

Banks released her debut studio album, Broke with Expensive Taste, in 2014. The album was a critical and commercial success, and it debuted at number 9 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album's lead single, "Yung Rapunxel", peaked at number 24 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Banks' second studio album, Fantasea II: The Second Wave, was released in 2018. The album was a critical and commercial disappointment, and it failed to chart on the Billboard 200 chart.

Film and Television

In addition to her music career, Banks has also appeared in several films and television shows. She made her film debut in the 2015 film Pitch Perfect 2. She has also appeared in the television shows Black Box and Lovecraft Country.

Personal Life

Banks has been open about her struggles with mental illness. She has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and anxiety. Banks has also been involved in several public controversies.

Conclusion

Azealia Banks is a talented rapper, singer, songwriter, and actress. She has released two studio albums and has appeared in several films and television shows. Banks has also been open about her struggles with mental illness. Despite her personal struggles, Banks continues to be a successful and influential artist.