Rita Sahatçiu was born in Pristina, Yugoslavia (now Kosovo), to Albanian parents Vera (née Bajraktari), a psychiatrist, and Besnik Sahatçiu, a pub owner. Her birth occurred amidst a tumultuous period in the region's history, marking the start of a life that would later be defined by displacement and adaptation.

At the age of one, Rita and her family fled Kosovo due to political instability and persecution of Albanians. They sought refuge in London, England, where she grew up in Notting Hill. This move significantly shaped her cultural identity and exposed her to the diverse musical influences that would later inform her artistry. She also changed her family name to 'Ora' which means 'hour' in Albanian, believing it was easier to pronounce.

Ora's pursuit of a music career began in her teens. She appeared in the film 'Spivs' and auditioned for 'Eurovision: Your Country Needs You'. While she withdrew from the Eurovision competition, feeling unprepared, these early experiences provided valuable exposure and helped her hone her performance skills. She also garnered attention by posting videos on YouTube, covering popular songs.

A pivotal moment arrived when Rita signed with Roc Nation, Jay-Z's entertainment company. This deal provided her with access to top producers, songwriters, and resources, setting the stage for her breakthrough into the mainstream music industry. The backing of Roc Nation significantly elevated her profile and credibility.

Ora's debut album, 'Ora', was released in 2012 and achieved immediate commercial success, topping the UK Albums Chart. The album spawned multiple hit singles, including 'R.I.P.' featuring Tinie Tempah and 'How We Do (Party),' solidifying her status as a rising pop star. Her bold fashion choices and energetic performances further contributed to her growing popularity.

Rita Ora's career expanded beyond singing as she embraced television. She was a judge on 'The X Factor' UK, providing mentorship to aspiring singers. Her charisma and fashion sense elevated her popularity.

After a period of label disputes and creative exploration, Ora released her second studio album, 'Phoenix'. The album spawned global hits like 'Your Song' and 'Anywhere', revitalizing her career and demonstrating her resilience and adaptability. 'Phoenix' showcased a more mature and refined sound, reflecting her growth as an artist.

Venturing into acting, Ora appeared in major films like 'Pokémon Detective Pikachu'. These roles broadened her appeal and demonstrated her versatility as an entertainer, allowing her to connect with new audiences beyond the music world.

Rita released her third studio album 'You & I' in 2023. The album is a reflection of her personal experiences and showcases her growth as a songwriter. The album's themes explore love, relationships, and self-discovery, further connecting with her fans on a deeper level.

Rita Ora married film director Taika Waititi in 2023. While not directly career-related, this significant personal event reflects a new chapter in her life, adding another layer to her public persona and influencing her artistry in subtle ways. Their relationship became a point of interest in the media.