Mikaela Mullaney Straus, known professionally as King Princess, is an American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and actor from Brooklyn, New York, who has become a defining voice in modern pop and indie rock. Born on December 19, 1998, she first captured the global spotlight in February 2018 with her debut single "1950," a poignant track that explored queer love and instantly resonated with audiences. The song, released through Mark Ronson's label Zelig Records, an imprint of Columbia Records, became a commercial success, charting in multiple territories and eventually earning platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Its accompanying debut extended play, Make My Bed, arrived later that year and cemented her status as a breakout artist with a distinct, genre-blending sound.
King Princess's early career was marked by rapid momentum and critical recognition. Her second single, "Talia," further solidified her international appeal, achieving gold certification in Australia from the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA). Building on this foundation, she released her debut studio album, Cheap Queen, in 2019. The record was met with widespread critical acclaim, praised for its clever songwriting, sultry vocals, and seamless fusion of pop, R&B, and rock elements. The album showcased her versatility as a multi-instrumentalist and her ability to craft deeply personal yet universally relatable anthems, establishing her as a formidable force in the contemporary music landscape.
In the years that followed, King Princess continued to evolve as an artist, navigating the industry with a distinct sense of independence. She eventually parted ways with Zelig Records, a move that preceded the release of her 2025 album, Girl Violence, which was issued through Section1. This project marked a new chapter in her career, reflecting her artistic growth and willingness to experiment with darker, more introspective themes. Beyond her musical endeavors, King Princess expanded her creative horizons by making her acting debut in 2025, appearing in the television series Nine Perfect Strangers. This transition into acting demonstrated her multifaceted talents and her ambition to push beyond the boundaries of music.
Throughout her career, King Princess has been celebrated not only for her sonic contributions but also for her unapologetic authenticity as a queer artist. Her lyrics often tackle themes of identity, love, and heartbreak, earning her a devoted fanbase and critical admiration. With a trajectory that spans chart-topping singles, critically acclaimed albums, and a foray into acting, she continues to solidify her place as one of the most compelling and innovative artists of her generation. As she forges ahead, her work remains a testament to her creative fearlessness and enduring cultural impact.