Ava Max (real name — Amanda Ava Koci; born February 16, 1994, Milwaukee, USA) is an American singer, songwriter, and performer of Albanian descent. She is best known for her global hits “Sweet but Psycho”, “Kings & Queens”, and “Maybe You’re the Problem”. Her music blends energetic pop, dance music, and disco elements, while her image has become a symbol of female empowerment and self-expression in modern pop culture.
Early Life and Background
Ava Max was born to Albanian immigrant parents who moved to the United States from the cities of Saranda and Tirana. Her father is a pianist, and her mother an opera singer—both greatly influenced her musical interests. As a child, Ava took part in talent contests and began writing songs at an early age. Among her inspirations are Madonna, Gwen Stefani, Britney Spears, and Christina Aguilera.
At age 14, Ava moved with her parents to Los Angeles to pursue a music career. Facing initial challenges, she returned to Virginia, where she honed her vocal skills and unique style while balancing school and studio sessions. During this period, she adopted the stage name Ava Max.
Career Beginnings
In the early 2010s, Max collaborated with various producers, recording demos and writing lyrics. Her first notable appearance came with the 2013 track “Clap Your Hands” by Le Youth. In 2016, she signed with Atlantic Records and began working with producer Cirkut (known for Katy Perry, The Weeknd, and Miley Cyrus).
Breakthrough and Global Fame
Her true breakthrough arrived in 2018 with the single “Sweet but Psycho”. The song topped charts in over 20 countries—including the UK, Germany, and Norway—and entered the Billboard Hot 100 Top 10 in the US. It earned multi-platinum certifications worldwide and established Ava Max as one of pop music’s rising global stars.
Albums and Discography
Heaven & Hell (2020)
Her debut studio album featured the hits:
- “Kings & Queens”
- “Salt”
- “So Am I”
- “Who’s Laughing Now”
The record received positive reviews and achieved platinum status in multiple countries, reinforcing Ava’s image as a performer of anthems about confidence and inner strength.
Diamonds & Dancefloors (2023)
Her sophomore album showcased a more mature sound inspired by disco and electro-pop. Key tracks include:
- “Maybe You’re the Problem”
- “Million Dollar Baby”
- “Ghost”
- “Weapons”
- “Dancing’s Done”
The album was acclaimed for reviving 1980s aesthetics with a modern twist and for its emotional lyrics about love, identity, and vulnerability.
Third Album (in progress)
In 2024, Ava released the single “My Oh My”—the first glimpse of her upcoming third studio album, slated for 2025. She has described it as her “most personal and experimental” project to date.
Musical Style and Image
Ava Max’s sound fuses pop, dance-pop, euro-pop, and elements of tropical house. Her songs are uplifting anthems of self-confidence and independence, while her signature asymmetrical hairstyle (“Max Cut”) has become her visual trademark. She pairs commercial success with a strong artistic identity, often exploring themes of self-acceptance and resilience.
Awards and Achievements
- 2019 — MTV Europe Music Awards: Best Push Act
- 2019 — LOS40 Music Awards: Best International Song (“Sweet but Psycho”)
- 2020 — BreakTudo Awards: Artist on the Rise
- 2021 — Swiss Music Awards: Best Breaking Act International
- 2022 — LOS40 Music Awards: Best International Video (“Maybe You’re the Problem”)
- 2023 — iHeartRadio Music Awards: nomination for Dance Song of the Year
Media Presence
Ava actively engages her audience on social media, promoting new releases through TikTok and Instagram. In 2023, she contributed the track “Choose Your Fighter” to the Barbie movie soundtrack, cementing her status as one of pop’s leading voices.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Ava Max champions equality and self-acceptance, advocates for women’s rights, and supports the LGBTQ+ community. She frequently speaks about mental health and emotional balance, inspiring fans to be honest with themselves and believe in their strength.
Legacy and Influence
Ava Max is recognized as one of the standout artists of the new pop generation. Her hits and visual identity inspire performers worldwide, while her empowering anthems have become symbols of confidence and freedom. As of 2025, she continues working on new material, remaining one of the most recognizable and influential pop stars of her era.
