Katie Melua is a British singer and songwriter, born in Kutaisi, Georgia and raised in Belfast and London. She began her music career in 2003 and quickly achieved success, becoming the best-selling female artist in the United Kingdom and across Europe within three years. Her debut album, Call Off the Search, topped UK charts, followed by Piece by Piece and Pictures, both of which also enjoyed strong commercial success. Managed by composer Mike Batt and signed to the Dramatico label, Melua is known for her distinctive mezzo-soprano voice. By 2008, she was among the wealthiest young British musicians.