Jesy Nelson, born Jessica Louise Nelson on June 14, 1991, in Romford, East London, is a British singer and songwriter who rose to fame as a member of the girl group Little Mix. Known for her powerful voice and candid discussions about her personal struggles, Jesy has carved out a distinctive path in the music industry. From her early days navigating bullying to becoming a celebrated solo artist, Jesy’s journey is as inspiring as it is impressive.
Early Life and Education
Jesy Nelson was born to Janice White, a police community support officer, and John Nelson, a businessman. Her parents separated when she was five years old, and Jesy grew up with her three siblings: Jade, Jonathan, and Joseph. Despite a challenging childhood marked by bullying, Jesy displayed a natural talent for performing.
She attended several schools, including Jo Richardson Community School and Abbs Cross Academy and Arts College. Jesy later honed her craft at the prestigious Sylvia Young Theatre School and Yvonne Rhodes Theatre School, where she studied acting and music. These experiences laid the groundwork for her future career as an entertainer.
Rise to Fame with Little Mix
Jesy’s life changed in 2011 when she auditioned for the British talent show The X Factor. Initially eliminated as a solo contestant during the bootcamp stage, she was brought back to form a girl group with Perrie Edwards, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, and Jade Thirlwall. Originally named Rhythmix, the group was later renamed Little Mix and went on to become the first band to win the competition.
With Jesy as a vital member, Little Mix released six studio albums: DNA (2012), Salute (2013), Get Weird (2015), Glory Days (2016), LM5 (2018), and Confetti (2020). These albums achieved multi-Platinum status in the UK and charted internationally. The group’s hit singles, including “Wings,” “Black Magic,” “Shout Out to My Ex,” and “Sweet Melody,” cemented their reputation as one of the most successful girl groups in music history.
Transition to Solo Career
In December 2020, Jesy announced her departure from Little Mix, citing the toll the industry had taken on her mental health. Her decision came after years of candidly addressing issues like online bullying and body image struggles, which she discussed in her award-winning BBC Three documentary Jesy Nelson: Odd One Out.
Jesy embarked on a solo career, signing with Polydor Records in 2021. Her debut solo single, “Boyz,” featuring Nicki Minaj, was released later that year and reached #4 on the UK Singles Chart. After parting ways with Polydor in 2022, Jesy independently released “Bad Thing” in 2023 and collaborated with Zion Foster on the single “Mine” in 2024.
Personal Life and Challenges
Jesy has been open about her personal struggles, including her battles with mental health. During her teenage years, she faced stress-induced alopecia and was often bullied for her weight. In Odd One Out, Jesy revealed the emotional toll of online trolling, recounting how it once led her to attempt suicide. Her bravery in sharing these experiences has made her a role model for many.
In her romantic life, Jesy has been linked to several high-profile figures. She was engaged to Rixton lead singer Jake Roche in 2015, though the couple split in 2016. Jesy also dated Love Island’s Chris Hughes and, more recently, rapper Zion Foster.
Net Worth and Achievements
As of 2025, Jesy Nelson’s net worth is estimated at $8 million, reflecting her success both as a member of Little Mix and as a solo artist. Beyond her financial success, Jesy has earned numerous accolades, including BRIT Awards, MTV Europe Music Awards, and a National Television Award for her documentary.
Little Mix also holds Guinness World Records for milestones like being the most-streamed female group on Spotify and the first all-female group to win Best British Group at the BRIT Awards. These achievements highlight Jesy’s enduring impact on the music industry.
Physical Appearance and Style
Jesy stands at 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) and weighs around 64 kg (141 lbs). With her distinctive style and green eyes, she has become a fashion icon for many fans. She often shares her love for tattoos, one of which reads, “Music is the strongest form of magic.”
An Inspiration to Many
Jesy Nelson’s journey from being a bullied schoolgirl to an internationally acclaimed artist is a testament to her resilience and talent. Whether dominating charts with Little Mix or exploring new creative avenues as a solo artist, Jesy continues to inspire millions with her music and authenticity.
As she navigates the next phase of her career, Jesy remains a beacon of hope and determination, proving that success is possible even in the face of adversity.
