Tori Kelly: A Complete Biography

Humble Beginnings in California

Victoria Loren Kelly, known to fans worldwide as Tori Kelly, was born on December 14, 1992, in Wildomar, California. Her parents, Laura and Allwyn Kelly, recognized her musical talent early. She was raised in a mixed-ethnicity household that embraced musical expression, encouraging her to explore her voice and passion for performance.

Tori’s early years were shaped by Christian values and a love for music. She grew up listening to gospel and soul, while also taking in the pop influences of artists like Whitney Houston, Lauryn Hill, and Celine Dion. By age 3, she was singing, and by 10, she was performing on national TV on “Star Search” and “America’s Most Talented Kids.”

Acting Career Highlights

From Singer to Voice Star

While Tori Kelly’s rise to fame was primarily through music, she made a significant mark in the world of animation. In 2016, she lent her voice to Meena the Elephant in the popular animated film “Sing.” Her portrayal of the shy, yet immensely talented elephant became a fan favorite. The movie’s success led to a sequel, “Sing 2” (2021), where she reprised her role.

These acting ventures allowed her to reach broader audiences and showcase her vocal power in unique ways, further solidifying her status in entertainment beyond just music.

Personal Life & Relationships

A Love Story with André Murillo

Tori Kelly is happily married to André Murillo, a German-born professional basketball player. The couple tied the knot in a private ceremony in May 2018, after dating for several years. Known for keeping her personal life low-key, Tori occasionally shares glimpses of her marriage on social media.

Their relationship is built on mutual respect and shared faith, as both are devoted Christians. André has often supported her publicly, especially during health challenges and career milestones.

Legal & Financial Struggles

Independence and Industry Setbacks

Before finding her place in the music industry, Tori faced rejection from major record labels, including a notable early dismissal from “American Idol” Season 9. Though she didn’t make it to the final rounds, she refused to give up.

Instead of waiting for the industry’s approval, she turned to YouTube, where she self-produced and uploaded music covers. Her DIY approach earned her a loyal fan base and the attention of industry insiders.

Later in her career, navigating contracts, management changes, and creative control presented challenges. However, Tori always emphasized authenticity over commercial conformity, which, while financially slower, proved artistically fulfilling.

Health & Financial Challenges

In July 2023, Tori was hospitalized due to blood clots, a health scare that put her in critical condition. The incident paused her promotional activities and required expensive medical attention. Although she recovered, the event impacted her financially and emotionally.

Despite these setbacks, Tori’s earnings from touring, album sales, and voice acting have kept her financially afloat.

Net Worth and Income Streams

5 Key Points to Know About Tori Kelly

1. Faith-Driven Career: Tori openly credits her faith for guiding her through both personal and professional ups and downs. Her gospel album Hiding Place even won two Grammys.

    

2. Self-Made Artist: After facing multiple rejections, she built her career from the ground up through YouTube—a model for aspiring independent artists.

    

3. Grammy Recognition: Though many know her as a pop singer, her biggest awards came from the gospel genre, showing her vocal versatility.

    

4. Resilient Through Adversity: Whether facing health scares or industry pushback, Tori remains a resilient and inspiring figure in the entertainment world.

    

5. Diversified Talent: Her acting success in Sing showcases her ability to excel beyond music, proving she’s not just a one-dimensional artist.

    

Conclusion

Tori Kelly’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, talent, and faith. From her early days singing in her bedroom to winning Grammys and voicing beloved characters, she has built a career grounded in authenticity. Her personal life reflects her values, and despite facing health and industry setbacks, she has remained a beacon of perseverance. With a

 of around $4 million and an ever-expanding fan base, Tori Kelly continues to inspire countless aspiring artists across the globe.

FAQs

1. What is Tori Kelly’s full name?
   Tori Kelly’s full name is Victoria Loren Kelly.
2. When did Tori Kelly get married?
   She married André Murillo in May 2018.
3. What caused Tori Kelly’s hospitalization in 2023?
   She was hospitalized due to blood clots, a serious health condition that required urgent care.
4. How did Tori Kelly start her music career?
   She began by uploading music covers to YouTube, gaining popularity independently before signing with a label.
5. What is Tori Kelly’s estimated net worth in 2025?
   Her estimated net worth is $4 million, primarily from music, acting, and endorsements.