Winehouse, Amy (Jade) (1983– )

English pop singer and songwriter. Known for her soulful vocals, offbeat style, unruly manner, and autobiographical lyrics, she gained popularity in the mid 2000s with her debut album Frank (2003), followed in 2006 by Back to Black, featuring the international hit ‘Rehab’. The album went on to earn her five Grammy Awards.

Her musical style incorporates a range of genres, including soul, R & B, and rock. After significant exposure in the UK from the jazz-inspired Frank, she gained international acclaim for Back to Black, which featured the irreverent, Motown-inspired single ‘Rehab’, a reference to her refusal to enter a rehabilitation programme for substance abuse. Other hit singles include ‘Stronger Than Me’ (2004), ‘You Know I'm No Good’ (2007), and ‘Love is a Losing Game’ (2008).

Winehouse was born in London and attended the Sylvia Young Theatre School and the Brit School for Performing Arts & Technology. She began playing guitar, singing in bands, and composing music in her early teens. A recording contract with Island Records led to the release of her first album at the age of 20. While critical and commercial success followed, Winehouse became notorious for her highly publicized substance abuse and raucous behaviour. Her trademark beehive hairstyle, multiple tattoos, and tousled look have further inspired media attention.