Jesy Nelson
- Attended Jo Richardson Community School
- Attended Abbs Cross Academy and Arts College (in Hornchurch, London)
- Attended Sylvia Young and Yvonne Rhodes Theatre Schools
Jessica Louise Nelson, known professionally as Jesy Nelson, is a British singer, songwriter, and dancer who gained widespread recognition as a member of the British girl group Little Mix. Born on June 14, 1991, in Romford, East London, England, she rose to prominence after the formation of Little Mix during the eighth series of The X Factor in 2011. As part of the group, Nelson and her bandmates achieved remarkable commercial success, producing seventeen top-ten singles and five number-one hits on the UK Singles Chart, firmly establishing themselves as one of the UK’s most successful girl groups.
Jesy Nelson’s early life in East London was shaped by her parents, John Nelson and Janice White. Her passion for music and performing arts eventually led her to audition for The X Factor, where Little Mix was formed. The group’s blend of pop music and powerful vocal harmonies quickly captivated audiences, and their success spanned nearly a decade. Throughout her time with Little Mix, Nelson contributed to numerous hit songs and albums, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
In 2019, Jesy Nelson released a revealing documentary titled Jesy Nelson: Odd One Out, which focused on her personal struggles with body image, mental health, and the impact of online bullying. The documentary was praised for its candid approach and won the Factual Entertainment Award at the 25th National Television Awards, as well as the Visionary Honour Award for Documentary of the Year. This project highlighted Nelson’s willingness to speak openly about difficult experiences, resonating with many viewers.
Nelson’s departure from Little Mix in December 2020 marked a significant turning point in her career and attracted considerable media attention in the UK. Following her exit from the group, she pursued a solo career, releasing her debut single "Boyz" in October 2021, which featured rapper Nicki Minaj. Despite receiving a mixed critical reception, the track debuted at number four on the UK Singles Chart, demonstrating her continued commercial viability. In April 2023, she followed up with the single "Bad Thing," further establishing her solo artistry.
Beyond her music career, Jesy Nelson is also known for her advocacy work related to Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), inspired by the diagnosis of her twin daughters. In 2025, she became actively involved in campaigns to include SMA in the UK newborn screening programme, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for affected infants. Nelson’s efforts in this area reflect her commitment to raising awareness and supporting medical advancements.
Jesy Nelson remains a prominent figure in the British music scene, known for her distinctive voice, resilience, and advocacy. Her journey from a member of a globally successful girl group to a solo artist and campaigner underscores her multifaceted career and influence.