Rita Ora

Rita Ora – Life, Career, and Famous Quotes

Discover the inspiring journey of Rita Ora: her early life, musical rise, acting ventures, signature style, and memorable quotes. Explore the life and legacy of this British star of Albanian origin.

Introduction

Rita Ora is a multi-talented British singer, songwriter, actress, and television personality whose voice, style, and presence have made her one of the more dynamic figures in contemporary pop culture. Born on November 26, 1990, in what is now Kosovo, she moved to London as an infant and went on to build a global career in music, film, fashion, and media. Her story is one of resilience, identity, creative ambition, and reinvention. Even today, Rita’s influence resonates in music charts, television screens, and the wardrobes of fans around the world.

Early Life and Family

Rita Sahatçiu Ora was born in Pristina, in the former Yugoslavia (modern-day Kosovo), to Albanian parents.

Her paternal grandfather, Besim Sahatçiu, was a film and theatre director, and her maternal grandfather was an Albanian consul to Russia (then Soviet Union). saatçi (meaning “watchmaker”).

Shortly after her birth, due to escalating conflict and political instability in the region, her family relocated to London in 1991, when Rita was only a baby.

Growing up, Rita experienced both challenge and opportunity: her family had modest means, and she has often described how they "started from scratch" in London.

Youth and Education

In London, Rita’s early schooling included St. Cuthbert with St. Matthias CE Primary School in Earl’s Court, followed by Sylvia Young Theatre School and St Charles Catholic Sixth Form College.

She began performing early — doing open mic nights, singing in her father’s pub, and taking small acting roles. The Brief when she was about 13. Spivs (2004).

At age about 18, she auditioned for Eurovision: Your Country Needs You (BBC) to compete for the UK in Eurovision 2009. She progressed in the competition but later withdrew, citing that she did not feel ready.

In December 2008, she signed with Roc Nation, the label founded by Jay-Z. That deal set the stage for her ascent in the music industry.

Career and Achievements

2008–2011: Beginnings and Breakthrough

After signing with Roc Nation, Rita worked in the studio on her debut material. She also made a cameo in Jay-Z’s video for Young Forever. “Hot Right Now”, which climbed to number one on the UK Singles Chart.

In 2012, Rita released her debut album, Ora. It debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart. “R.I.P.” (featuring Tinie Tempah) and “How We Do (Party)”.

She also supported Coldplay on their Mylo Xyloto tour, giving her exposure to large audiences.

2014–2016: Rising Star and Transition

In 2014, Rita released “I Will Never Let You Down”, which became another UK number one. “Black Widow”, which peaked at No. 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100, giving her strong international exposure.

However, her time with Roc Nation became strained. In December 2015, Rita filed a lawsuit against the label, seeking to terminate her contract, arguing that the agreement was “unenforceable” and citing limitations that prevented her from releasing multiple albums.

During this period she also began expanding into television. She served as a judge on The X Factor UK (2015) and a coach on The Voice UK.

Her fashion and design side also grew: she collaborated with Adidas Originals, designing clothing and accessories, and later worked with Tezenis (lingerie) and co-designed a shoe collection with Giuseppe Zanotti.

2017–2019: Phoenix Era & Tours

In May 2017, Rita released “Your Song”, her first major solo single in nearly two years, reaching the top 10 in the UK. “Anywhere,” charted high and became one of her signature hits.

Her second studio album, Phoenix, was released on November 23, 2018. “Let You Love Me” from that album reached number four in the UK and made her the first British female solo artist to accumulate 13 top-ten hits in the UK.

She embarked on the Phoenix World Tour during 2019 across Europe, Asia, and Oceania. “Carry On” (with Kygo) and appeared in the film Pokémon: Detective Pikachu.

2020–Present: You & I, TV & Expansion

In 2020, Rita took on the judge role for The Masked Singer UK. The Voice Australia.

In 2023, she released her third studio album, You & I, which debuted at number six in the UK. The Masked Singer US as a judge.

Beyond music and TV, Rita has ventured into beauty entrepreneurship. In 2024 she co-launched a haircare line, Typebea, focusing on hair health and growth after years of experiencing damage from styling.

She continues to act as well, with roles in Fifty Shades films, Twist (2021), Pokémon: Detective Pikachu, and more recent projects in production.

Her fashion pursuits also remain strong: in 2023 she announced a multi-season collaboration with Primark spanning knitwear, denim, tailoring, and accessories.

Historical Milestones & Context

Rita Ora’s rise came during a period of shifting dynamics in the music industry: streaming was overtaking traditional sales, genre boundaries were blurring, and global pop stars needed star power beyond singing alone. In this era, her ability to crossover into acting and television gave her flexibility and staying power.

Her record-breaking 13 top-ten UK singles as a British female solo artist is a significant milestone—surpassing artists who had held records for decades.

Her background as a refugee from Kosovo also resonates in the broader context of migration and identity in Europe. She represents a generation of artists whose roots cross national lines, and who build multicultural identities.

Moreover, her legal battle with Roc Nation is emblematic of artists pushing back against restrictive label contracts—a recurring theme in modern music business narratives.

Legacy and Influence

Rita Ora’s influence spans multiple domains:

• Music & Pop Culture: Her hits continue to receive radio play and streaming traction. Her versatility in genres—from pop to R&B to dance—makes her a reference point for new artists.

• Representation: As a British artist of Albanian descent, she brings visibility to Balkan heritage in mainstream pop culture.

• Fashion & Style: Known for bold, trendsetting fashion choices, she has become a style icon whose red carpet looks and collaborations influence fashion trends.

• Media & Television: As a judge and coach on high-profile TV shows, she shapes talent and engages broader audiences.

• Entrepreneurship & Beauty: Her move into haircare with Typebea shows how artists now diversify into brand building and wellness industries.

• Inspiration: Her story of navigating identity, industry challenges, and creative reinvention inspires many young artists and fans who feel caught between cultures or striving for their voice.

In years to come, her legacy may rest not only on chart success but on how she bridged artistic domains, business, and social influence.

Personality and Talents

Rita has often described herself as “weird,” spontaneous, and someone who trusts her instincts.

She is also known for her work ethic and resilience. Her legal fight for artistic freedom and ability to reemerge strongly after setbacks reflect tenacity. Her collaborations across film, TV, fashion, and business show adaptability and ambition.

Moreover, she is deeply tied to her identity — she speaks Albanian, considers herself spiritual (though not dogmatically religious), and often reflects on her dual Kosovar/British heritage.

In relationships, she tends to keep a private life but is open about values and growth. Since 2021 she’s been in a relationship with director Taika Waititi; they married in August 2022.

Famous Quotes of Rita Ora

Here are some memorable quotes that reflect her perspective on self, creativity, identity, and ambition:

“I was signed at 18 and had to grow up quickly.” “To save your own hair, wigs are literally the way forward.” “I just wanted to be an artist. I didn’t care how or what; I just wanted to express my artistic integrity, and I wanted the world to have a vision of what I was seeing in my mind.” “I’m the weirdest person.” “I will always love red lips.” “Every person has a signature. Just some people don’t know it yet.” “I don’t get jealous — I get suspicious.” “If I could live in a cabaret, I would. If I could live in ‘Moulin Rouge,’ I would.” “Know yourself; keep your circle tight. Keep your friends and your work circle tight.” “Beyoncé built her f–king foundation from the bottom. I think that’s the exact career every female artist wants to have.”

These lines offer glimpses into her drive, her self-awareness, and her poetic approach to identity, style, and creativity.

Lessons from Rita Ora

1. Embrace your background, don’t hide it. Rita’s Kosovar roots remain a source of pride, and her dual identity strengthens her voice.

2. Fight for creative freedom. Her legal battle with Roc Nation underscores that contracts should empower, not trap.

3. Be multifaceted. Rita didn’t limit herself to music—she branched into acting, TV, fashion, and business.

4. Reinvention is vital. Through transitions—from debut album to lawsuit to relaunch—she remained relevant.

5. Own your quirks. Many of her quotes celebrate uniqueness, weirdness, and signature styles.

6. Maintain roots and humility. Despite fame, Rita often reflects on her humble upbringing, reminding herself of where she came from.

Conclusion

Rita Ora’s journey is far from ordinary. From a refugee infant to a chart-topping musician, actor, fashion collaborator, and entrepreneur, she has crafted an identity that bridges cultures and disciplines. Her legacy lies not only in hit songs but in her resilience, creative autonomy, and influence across media.

If you’re inspired by her path, dive into her albums Ora, Phoenix, You & I, watch her TV appearances, or explore more of her quotes. Her story reminds us that to succeed, we must be true to ourselves and be brave enough to evolve.