Though born in Russia (which was part of the Soviet Union at the time), Spektor and her family moved to New York, where she studied classical piano. She started performing her own songs at various New York City clubs, eventually releasing her self-produced CDs 11:11 (2001) and Songs (2002).

In 2003, Soviet Kitsch was released worldwide, featuring the single "Us," various commercials and promos. Spektor's breakthrough, however, came with her follow-up album, Begin To Hope, and the popular single "Fidelity," prominently featured on VH1 and Sirius Satellite Radio.

As a touring artist, Spektor mainly performs her sets with just a piano, sometimes playing an electric guitar for crowd favorites like "Hotel Song."

1. Born: February 18, 1980
2. Birthplace: Moscow, Russia
3. Graduated from the SAR Academy
4. Opened for The Strokes in 2003-2004

• 2001: 11:11
• 2002: Songs
• 2003: Soviet Kitsch
• 2006: Begin to Hope