Who I Am: From Milwaukee to the Charts
If "Sweet but Psycho" has ever taken over your playlist, you already know my music. But where did the voice behind those huge pop choruses come from? Here's a short guide to me, for new listeners and old ones.
Where did I come from?
I was born Amanda Ava Koci on 16 February 1994 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. My parents are from Albania, and the family moved to Virginia when I was two. I signed with Atlantic Records in 2016.
How did I break through?
My single "Sweet but Psycho" came out in August 2018. It went to number one in 22 countries, spent four weeks at number one in the UK and reached number 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
What are my albums?
- Heaven & Hell (2020), with "Kings & Queens", "Who's Laughing Now" and "OMG What's Happening"
- Diamonds & Dancefloors (2023)
- Don't Click Play (2025), with "Lost Your Faith" and "Lovin Myself"
What is the "Max cut"?
It's my signature hairstyle: platinum-blonde hair with a centre part, a chin-length bob on one side and long waves on the other. I've called it a symbol of the freedom to do your own thing.
Have I toured?
Yes. My first headlining tour, On Tour (Finally), ran through Europe and North America in 2023.
What can you hear in my music?
The hooks. My choruses are made to be shouted on a dance floor.
The attitude. Songs like "Kings & Queens" and "So Am I" are about owning who you are.
Every piece at Ava Max Merch is for anyone who wants to wear a bit of that confidence.