Shirley Setia, a name synonymous with melodious charm and YouTube stardom, has captured the hearts of millions with her enchanting voice and charismatic presence. Born on July 2, 1993, in Daman, India, Shirley’s journey from a young girl with a passion for singing to an Indo-Kiwi sensation is nothing short of inspirational.
Known affectionately as the “Pyjama Popstar,” Shirley’s fame skyrocketed when she won a T-Series competition, recording a song in her room, clad in her pyjamas. This seemingly casual act opened doors to a world of opportunities, turning her into a celebrity who has collaborated with YouTube stars across Canada, India, and the UK.
Her unique blend of cultural influences, combined with a natural talent for music, has led to a multifaceted career as a singer, actress, and social media influencer. With awards, Bollywood appearances, and a massive fan following, Shirley Setia’s story is a testament to the power of dreams, determination, and digital media.
From her early days in Daman to her education in New Zealand, from her viral YouTube videos to her debut in Bollywood, Shirley’s life is filled with melodies, milestones, and magic. Join us as we explore the life of Shirley Setia, a young woman who turned her passion into a profession, her talent into triumph.
Early Life and Background
Contents
Birth and Family
Shirley Setia was born on July 2, 1993, in Daman, India, to a loving family. Her father, Raj Setia, is a businessman with roots in Hisar, while her mother hails from Goa. Shirley also has a younger sibling named Shane. The family’s move to New Zealand when Shirley was just seven years old marked a significant turning point in her life.
Childhood and Education
Growing up in Auckland, New Zealand, Shirley’s childhood was filled with music and creativity. Her interest in singing was evident from a young age, and she often found herself mesmerized by the melodies of Lata Mangeshkar, A.R. Rahman, and other musical legends.
Shirley’s education was equally diverse, reflecting her multifaceted personality. She attended the University of Auckland, where she earned a degree in Marketing and Information Systems. Additionally, she pursued a course at the New York Film Academy, honing her skills in various artistic fields.
Early Interest in Music
Shirley’s passion for music was not confined to formal training; she was not a trained singer. Her first stage performance was the song “Iktara” from “Wake Up Sid” in 2001, a moment that stayed with her and fueled her love for singing.
Her musical journey took a significant turn in 2012 when she met Bollywood singer Shreya Ghoshal, who encouraged her to upload videos on YouTube. This advice led to Shirley’s first viral video, a cover of “Tum Hi Ho” from “Aashiqui 2,” recorded spontaneously at her parent’s house in her pyjamas. This video earned her the nickname “Pyjama Popstar” and set the stage for her future success.
Table: Key Milestones in Early Life
| Year | Milestone | Description |
| 1993 | Birth | Born in Daman, India |
| 2000 | Move to New Zealand | Family moved to Auckland, New Zealand |
| 2001 | First Stage Performance | Sang “Iktara” from “Wake Up Sid” |
| 2012 | Meeting with Shreya Ghoshal | Encouraged to upload YouTube videos |
| 2012 | Viral YouTube Video | Cover of “Tum Hi Ho” went viral, earning the nickname “Pyjama Popstar” |
This section paints a vivid picture of Shirley Setia’s early life, highlighting her family background, education, and the beginnings of her musical journey. Her untrained yet natural talent, combined with encouragement from established artists, laid the foundation for her future success.
Musical Journey
Rise to Fame
Shirley Setia’s musical career took off after her viral YouTube cover of “Tum Hi Ho.” Her unique voice and engaging videos quickly gained traction, earning her a dedicated fanbase. In 2013, she won the T-Series competition, further solidifying her place in the music world.
YouTube Success
Shirley’s YouTube channel became a hub for music lovers, featuring covers of popular Bollywood and English songs. Her collaborations with other YouTube artists, such as Kurt Hugo Schneider and Arjun, added to her popularity. With millions of subscribers, her channel became a symbol of independent music success.
Original Music and Collaborations
Transitioning from covers to original music, Shirley released singles like “Tu Mil Gaya” and “Naiyo Jaana.” Her collaboration with artists like Jubin Nautiyal and Gurnazar Chattha showcased her versatility and creativity.
Concerts and Performances
Shirley’s success extended beyond the virtual world. She performed live concerts in various cities across India, New Zealand, the UK, and other countries. Her energetic performances at YouTube FanFest and other events left audiences spellbound.
Awards and Recognition
Her musical talents have been recognized with awards such as the BIG Golden Voice Award and the Outlook Social Media Award for OSM Musician of the Year. Forbes India also featured her as one of the “30 Under 30” young achievers.
Table: Musical Achievements and Milestones
| Year | Achievement | Description |
| 2013 | T-Series Competition Winner | Won the competition with her cover of “Tum Hi Ho” |
| 2015 | BIG Golden Voice Award | Recognized for her singing talent |
| 2016 | YouTube FanFest Performance | Performed live in Mumbai |
| 2017 | “Tu Mil Gaya” Single Release | Released her original single |
| 2018 | Forbes India 30 Under 30 | Featured as a young achiever |
Shirley Setia’s musical journey is a blend of talent, innovation, and perseverance. From viral YouTube covers to original music, from live concerts to awards, her career is a testament to the power of passion and the possibilities of the digital age.
Acting Career
Bollywood Debut
Shirley Setia’s acting journey began with her debut in the Hindi film industry with the Netflix film “Maska” in 2020. Her portrayal of the character Persis Mistry was well-received, marking a promising start to her acting career.
Significant Roles
Following her debut, Shirley landed roles in films like “Nikamma” alongside Abhimanyu Dassani and Shilpa Shetty, showcasing her talent and versatility. Her performance in the Telugu film “Krishna Vrinda Vihari” further expanded her presence in the Indian cinema landscape.
Web Series and Other Media
Shirley’s acting prowess extends to web series and other digital platforms. Her engaging performances and ability to connect with audiences have made her a sought-after actress in various mediums.
Transition from Singing to Acting
Shirley’s transition from singing to acting was seamless, reflecting her multifaceted talents. Her understanding of music and rhythm translated into a natural flair for acting, allowing her to explore new creative avenues.
Table: Acting Milestones and Achievements
| Year | Milestone | Description |
| 2020 | Bollywood Debut in “Maska” | Played the role of Persis Mistry on Netflix |
| 2021 | Role in “Nikamma” | Starred alongside Abhimanyu Dassani and Shilpa Shetty |
| 2021 | Telugu Film “Krishna Vrinda Vihari” | Expanded her acting career into Telugu cinema |
| Ongoing | Web Series Participation | Engaged in various web series and digital media projects |
Shirley Setia’s acting career is a testament to her adaptability and artistic growth. From her debut in Bollywood to her roles in various films and web series, she has proven her ability to captivate audiences with her performances. Her transition from singing to acting adds another dimension to her already impressive career, making her a true multi-talented artist.
Physical Appearance and Style
Physical Attributes
Shirley Setia’s appearance is marked by her expressive eyes, radiant smile, and petite frame. Standing at 5 feet 3 inches tall, she carries herself with grace and confidence. Her black hair and brown eyes add to her charm, making her a recognizable face in the entertainment industry.
Fashion Sense
Shirley’s fashion sense is as versatile as her talents. Whether it’s casual wear, traditional Indian attire, or glamorous red-carpet looks, she knows how to make a statement. Her style reflects her youthful energy and creativity, often blending contemporary trends with classic elegance.
Favorite Outfits and Brands
Known for her love of dresses and chic casual wear, Shirley often sports brands like Zara, H&M, and Forever 21. Her Instagram feed showcases her in various outfits, from elegant gowns to trendy streetwear, reflecting her personal taste and fashion-forward thinking.
Public Appearances
Shirley’s public appearances are characterized by her poise and style. Whether it’s award shows, concerts, interviews, or social events, she presents herself with sophistication. Her makeup and hairstyle choices complement her outfits, creating cohesive and eye-catching looks.
Table: Shirley Setia’s Style Profile
| Aspect | Description |
| Height | 5 feet 3 inches |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Favorite Brands | Zara, H&M, Forever 21 |
| Style Preferences | Dresses, chic casual wear, traditional Indian attire |
Shirley Setia’s physical appearance and style are an integral part of her public persona. Her fashion choices reflect her personality and artistic sensibilities, making her a style icon for many of her fans. From her physical attributes to her favorite outfits and brands, Shirley’s style is a blend of modern trends and timeless grace.
Shirley Setia Social Media Accounts And Links
| Youtube | Coming soon |
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| Snapchat | Coming soon |
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| Tiktok | Coming soon |
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Personal Life and Insights
Relationships and Marital Status
Shirley Setia has always kept her personal relationships private, focusing on her career and artistic pursuits. As of the writing of this article, she is not publicly known to be in a relationship or married.
Hobbies and Interests
Beyond her professional life, Shirley enjoys various hobbies and interests. She loves reading, traveling, and exploring new cultures. Her passion for music extends to playing the guitar and experimenting with different musical genres.
Connection with Family
Shirley shares a close bond with her family, especially her grandfather, whom she considers her inspiration. Her family’s support has been instrumental in her success, and she often expresses her gratitude and love for them on social media.
Social Media Presence
With millions of followers across platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, Shirley’s social media presence is vibrant and engaging. She shares glimpses of her life, work, travels, and thoughts, connecting with fans and providing insights into her world.
Fan Interactions
Shirley’s connection with her fans is genuine and heartfelt. She often interacts with them through live sessions, Q&As, and comments, appreciating their support and love. Her approachable and down-to-earth personality has endeared her to fans worldwide.
Table: Personal Life Overview
| Aspect | Description |
| Relationships | Private, not publicly known to be in a relationship or married |
| Hobbies | Reading, traveling, playing the guitar |
| Family Connection | Close bond with family, especially her grandfather |
| Social Media | Active on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook |
| Fan Interactions | Regular interactions through live sessions, Q&As, comments |
Shirley Setia’s personal life reflects her multifaceted personality and values. Her hobbies, family connections, and social media interactions provide a glimpse into the person behind the artist. Her approach to privacy, combined with her genuine connection with fans, adds depth to her public image.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
Lesser-Known Facts
- Desire to be an Astronaut: Before pursuing music, Shirley harbored a dream of becoming an astronaut.
- Nickname ‘Pyjama Popstar’: She earned this nickname after recording a song in her pyjamas for a YouTube competition.
- Untrained Singer: Despite her success, Shirley is not a formally trained singer, relying on her natural talent.
Unique Contributions
- Radio Tarana RJ: Before her YouTube fame, Shirley worked as an RJ for Radio Tarana in New Zealand.
- Multilingual Performer: Shirley has sung songs in different languages, including Hindi, Punjabi, and English, showcasing her linguistic versatility.
- Influence on Independent Artists: Shirley’s success has inspired many independent artists to pursue their dreams through digital platforms.
Influence and Impact on Fans
- Role Model for Youth: Shirley’s journey from a regular student to an international star has made her a role model for many aspiring artists.
- Social Media Engagement: Her regular interactions with fans on social media platforms have created a strong and loyal fanbase.
- Philanthropy: Shirley is also known for her charitable work and involvement in social causes, reflecting her compassionate side.
Table: Interesting Facts and Insights
| Aspect | Description |
| Childhood Dream | Wanted to be an astronaut |
| Nickname | ‘Pyjama Popstar’ |
| Previous Job | RJ for Radio Tarana in New Zealand |
| Languages | Hindi, Punjabi, English |
| Influence | Role model for aspiring artists, philanthropy, social media engagement |
Shirley Setia’s life is filled with interesting facts, unique contributions, and influences that extend beyond her music and acting career. Her childhood dreams, professional experiences, multilingual abilities, and impact on fans paint a picture of a dynamic and inspiring individual.
These insights add depth to her story, revealing facets of her personality and journey that contribute to her appeal and success.
Professional Growth and Achievements
Transition from Cover Songs to Original Music
Shirley Setia’s career began with cover songs on YouTube, where she gained fame for her unique renditions of popular tracks. Her transition to original music marked a significant milestone, showcasing her creativity and growth as an artist. Singles like “Tu Mil Gaya” and “Naiyo Jaana” received acclaim, solidifying her position as a talented singer-songwriter.
Collaborations and Versatility
Shirley’s collaborations with various artists across genres reflect her versatility and willingness to experiment. Working with musicians like Jubin Nautiyal, Gurnazar Chattha, and international YouTube stars, she has explored different musical styles and languages.
Awards and Recognition
Her contributions to music have been recognized with several awards, including the BIG Golden Voice Award and the Outlook Social Media Award for OSM Musician of the Year. Forbes India’s “30 Under 30” feature further highlighted her achievements as a young and influential artist.
Impact on Bollywood and Global Music Scene
Shirley’s entry into Bollywood and her global concerts have expanded her influence beyond the digital realm. Her performances in films and live shows have resonated with audiences worldwide, making her a prominent figure in the music industry.
Table: Professional Growth and Milestones
| Aspect | Description |
| Transition to Original Music | Released original singles like “Tu Mil Gaya” |
| Collaborations | Worked with Jubin Nautiyal, Gurnazar Chattha, international YouTube stars |
| Awards | BIG Golden Voice Award, OSM Musician of the Year, Forbes India 30 Under 30 |
| Impact | Influence on Bollywood, global concerts, multilingual performances |
Shirley Setia’s professional growth and achievements are a testament to her talent, innovation, and dedication. Her journey from cover songs to original compositions, collaborations, awards, and global impact illustrates her evolution as an artist. Her influence on the music scene, both in India and internationally, reflects her ability to connect with audiences and contribute meaningfully to the industry.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Income and Net Worth
Shirley Setia’s success in music and acting has led to a substantial income, with an estimated net worth of around $4 million as of 2022. Her earnings come from various sources, including music sales, concerts, film roles, brand endorsements, and social media collaborations.
Car Collection and Properties
Shirley’s love for luxury cars is evident in her collection, which includes brands like Audi and BMW. Her investments in real estate reflect her success, with properties in Mumbai and New Zealand.
Favorite Destinations and Travel
An avid traveler, Shirley enjoys exploring new places and cultures. Her favorite travel destinations include Paris, London, and Bali. Her social media often features beautiful snapshots from her travels, reflecting her wanderlust and appreciation for the world’s beauty.
Lifestyle and Hobbies
Shirley’s lifestyle is a blend of glamour and simplicity. While she enjoys the perks of stardom, she also values time with family and friends. Her hobbies include reading, playing the guitar, and experimenting with culinary delights.
Philanthropy and Social Causes
Beyond her professional success, Shirley is also known for her involvement in charitable activities and social causes. Her support for education, healthcare, and environmental initiatives showcases her commitment to giving back to society.
Table: Net Worth and Lifestyle Overview
| Aspect | Description |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $4 million (2022) |
| Car Collection | Audi, BMW |
| Favorite Destinations | Paris, London, Bali |
| Hobbies | Reading, playing the guitar, cooking |
| Philanthropy | Involvement in education, healthcare, environmental initiatives |
Shirley Setia’s net worth and lifestyle provide a glimpse into her success, interests, and values. From her financial achievements to her travel preferences, hobbies, and philanthropic efforts, her life reflects a balance of luxury, creativity, and compassion.
This section offers a well-rounded view of Shirley as a person, highlighting aspects that contribute to her appeal and relatability.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shirley Setia
Conclusion
Shirley Setia’s journey from a young girl recording songs in her pyjamas to an international sensation is a story of dreams realized and barriers broken. Her rise to fame, marked by viral YouTube covers, original music, Bollywood roles, and global concerts, is a testament to her talent, determination, and innovative spirit.
Her musical journey has not only earned her awards and recognition but has also inspired countless aspiring artists to pursue their passions through digital platforms. Shirley’s versatility, reflected in her multilingual performances, collaborations, and transition from singing to acting, showcases her as a true artist, unafraid to explore and experiment.
Beyond her professional success, Shirley’s personal life, style, hobbies, and philanthropic efforts paint a picture of a compassionate and grounded individual. Her connection with fans, genuine interactions, and commitment to social causes add depth to her public persona.
Her influence extends beyond the boundaries of India, resonating with audiences worldwide. As she continues to evolve and grow, Shirley Setia’s legacy promises to be one of creativity, impact, and authenticity.
In a world where fame can be fleeting, Shirley’s story stands as a reminder that passion, hard work, and a touch of uniqueness can create a lasting impression. Her journey is far from over, and the future holds exciting prospects for this dynamic artist.
With a blend of melodies, milestones, and magic, Shirley Setia’s life and career are a beautiful symphony that continues to enchant and inspire.
