Early Life

Cassandra Monique Batie, better known as Andra Day, was born in 1984 in San Diego, California. She grew up singing in church and school choirs and took dance classes throughout her childhood. As a teenager, she was inspired by classic R&B and jazz music, as well as her father’s love of Motown. She began writing songs and performing around San Diego.

Music Career

In 2012, Day released her debut single “Forever Mine” on YouTube. It was quickly picked up by DJs, who began playing it on the radio. She subsequently signed with Warner Bros. Records and began working with producer Adrian Gurvitz on her debut album Cheers to the Fall (2015). The album included the single “Rise Up” which became an anthem for social justice movements worldwide. Day earned two Grammy nominations for the album, including Best R&B Album. In 2019, she released her sophomore record, The United States vs. Billie Holiday, a concept album about the life of the legendary jazz singer. That same year, she starred in a biopic about Holiday's life, The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2021).

Awards & Accomplishments

Day has received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career, including two Grammy nominations and a Critics Choice Award nomination for her role in The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2021). She has also been nominated for multiple BET Awards and NAACP Image Awards. In 2018, she received a prestigious Rising Star Award from The Recording Academy.

Personal Life

Day lives in Los Angeles with her husband Brian Lane and their two children. She is an active philanthropist who works with several organizations that focus on empowering women and girls of color through education and mentorship. She has also collaborated with charities such as Human Rights Watch and Stand Up To Cancer.