Emerging onto the music scene with a voice as regal as her name, singer Queen Naija has rapidly ascended the ranks of R&B. Born Queen Naija Bulls in 1995 in Ypsilanti, Michigan, this dynamic artist has a story that’s as compelling as her soulful ballads. Queen Naija’s early life was steeped in music. Raised in a household filled with the sounds of Gospel and Soul, she started singing in church and dreamed of a music career. However, her foray into YouTube first put her on the map.
In 2014, she created a YouTube channel with her then-husband, Chris Sails, where they posted pranks, challenges, and personal vlogs. Their channel, Chris and Queen, quickly amassed a large following. After their relationship ended, Queen started her own YouTube channel, where she continued to share vlogs but also began to post covers and original songs. Her audience loved her relatable content and musical talent, but her next move launched her into the mainstream music industry.
A Leap Into Music
In 2018, Queen Naija released her first single, “Medicine.” The song was a bona fide hit, with its powerful lyrics of a woman’s strength in the face of heartbreak resonating with listeners worldwide. “Medicine” catapulted to No. 45 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, cementing Queen Naija’s status as a new force in R&B. Following the success of her first single, Queen released a self-titled debut EP in 2018. The EP, featuring hits like “Karma” and “Butterflies,” further underscored her vocal prowess and storytelling ability. Queen Naija reached No. 26 on the Billboard 200 and received positive reviews from critics.
Since her initial success, Queen has collaborated with several esteemed artists. She teamed up with fellow R&B singer Ar'mon for the hit song “No Strings” and also worked with rapper DDG on “Hold Up.” Most notably, she joined forces with pop sensation Ariana Grande for the remix of “Good Morning Text.”
While her music career has flourished, Queen Naija has also navigated personal triumphs and challenges. She's the proud mother of two sons, and her journey into motherhood has been a recurring theme in her vlogs. However, she's also faced public scrutiny over her relationships, which she tackles openly in her music.
Her Official Debut
In 2020, Queen Naija released her debut studio album, missunderstood. The album was well-received, peaking at No. 9 on the Billboard 200. Critics lauded her for her ability to weave personal stories into catchy R&B anthems. Public response was equally positive, with fans praising the album for its emotional honesty. Additionally, the album features a plethora of collaborations with high-profile artists, including Lil Durk, Russ, and Latto. The album's lead single, "Pack Lite," was particularly successful, charting on the Billboard Hot 100.
Queen Naija Is A Busy Woman
Today, Queen Naija is more than just a YouTube personality or a talented singer; she's a force in the music industry. She's consistently working on new music, and while she of often the target of trolls, her fans await her releases. She remains dedicated to her craft and authenticity as she continues to make waves in the industry. Her journey is not just about music—it's about living honestly, sharing stories of love and heartbreak, and staying true to oneself amid fame. As she moves forward, Queen Naija promises to remain a vibrant and powerful force in music.