Zee Avi

Zee Avi is a Malaysian singer-songwriter recognized for her distinct musical style and international acclaim, transitioning from YouTube discovery to a recognized artist with multiple chart-topping albums and awards. After uploading her song ‘Poppy’ to YouTube in September 2007, Zee Avi quickly garnered international attention for her distinct musical style, leading to inquiries from major record labels. Her talent was recognized by Patrick Keeler of The Raconteurs, who shared her music with Ian Montone, manager for artists including The White Stripes and The Shins. Subsequently, Emmett Malloy signed her to Brushfire Records, a label co-owned by Jack Johnson, in late 2008.

The album achieved significant commercial success, topping the US Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart. Two tracks, ‘Swell Window’ and ‘Concrete Wall,’ were featured in Season 5 of Gossip Girl (2011-2012). She became the first Malaysian singer with albums on the US Billboard Hot 200 Albums chart. Avi toured extensively, opening for artists including Jack Johnson (Greek Theater, UC Berkeley, October 6, 2010) and Ani DiFranco (Chameleon Club, October 21, 2011).

Her international impact was highlighted by the ‘International Young Artiste Award’ at the 2018 Top Asia Corporate Ball in Jakarta. Most recently, in August 2019, Avi announced her third studio album, Ellipses, and released the single ‘Who are U?’ in September 2019. She expanded her creative work in December 2019 by composing ‘My Skin’ for Novartis Malaysia.