Marina Diamandis

Marina Lambrini Diamandis (Greek: Μαρίνα-Λαμπρινή Διαμαντή; born 10 October 1985), better known by her stage name Marina and The Diamonds, is a Welsh singer-songwriter. Born in Brynmawr and raised in nearby Pandy, she performed for choir productions in her childhood. In 2009, Diamandis came to prominence after being ranked in second place on the Sound of 2010 poll organised by the BBC.

Her debut studio album The Family Jewels (2010) incorporated indie pop and new wave musical styles, while her follow-up record Electra Heart (2012) integrated prominent elements of electropop. The latter project debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart, and introduced Diamandis to several international markets. She has described herself as an "indie artist with pop goals" and often analyses components of human behaviour in her music. Diamandis is additionally recognised for her retro and cartoonish fashion styles.

Early life and career beginnings
"I created the name 'Marina and the Diamonds' 5 years ago and I never envisaged a character, pop project, band or solo artist. I saw a simple group made up of many people who had the same hearts. A space for people with similar ideals who could not fit in to life's pre-made mold. I was terribly awkward for a long time! I really craved to be part of one thing because I never felt too connected to anybody and now I feel I have that all around me."