Ellie Goulding (born Elena Jane Goulding, 30 December 1986 in Hereford, England) is an English singer-songwriter. Born in Hereford, she grew up in Kington, Herefordshire and currently lives in London, England.

After studying drama at the University of Kent for a couple of years, Goulding moved to West London for the purpose of developing her songs and music career. Touring since 2008 she released her debut single "Under the Sheets" on 15 November 2009. The track was produced by Starsmith, with whom she has been working since the beginning of her career. On 8 January 2010, Goulding topped the BBC Sound of 2010 music list. Previous winners include the likes of Little Boots, Corinne Bailey Rae and Mika. On 16 February 2010, she won the Critics' Choice award at the BRIT Awards, which has previously been given to acts such as Adele and Florence + the Machine.