Carly Rae Jepsen (b. 11/21/85) is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and actress. After studying musical theater for most of her school life and while in university, Jepsen garnered mainstream attention after placing third on the fifth season of Canadian Idol in 2007. In 2008, she released her folk-influenced debut studio album Tug of War in Canada before it was internationally released in 2011. Jepsen’s breakthrough came in 2012 with her acclaimed single “Call Me Maybe“, which was declared the best-selling single of that year, sold over 18 million copies, reached number one in more than 19 countries, and led to major record deals.
Early life and career beginnings
Carly was born in Mission, BC, CAN to Alexandra and Larry Jepsen, the second of their three children, the middle child between Colin and Katie. She attended Heritage Park Secondary School and had a passion for musical theater. Her parents and stepparents were teachers. She considered a career in music instruction and applied to music-related programs, but ended up auditioning for the Canadian College of Performing Arts in Victoria, BC, and being accepted into its year-long program in 2004.
After graduation, Jepsen relocated to Vancouver’s west side and held several jobs, including a barista, assistant pastry chef, and bartender. At this time, she slept on a pull-out sofa and wrote songs in her spare time.
In 2007, Carly auditioned for Canadian Idol, performing her original song “Sweet Talker.” She finished in third place. Her demo recording attracted the attention of music manager Jonathan Simkin, who signed Jepsen to a management deal with 604 Records. Her music career took off from there. Her debut studio album, Tug of War, was released in September 2008, and sold 10,000 copies in Canada.
Musical Style
Carly has been noted for her “subversively catchy lyrics, slick musical arrangements, and pop experimentation.” Paul Bradley of LA Weekly described Jepsen’s voice as “hushed” and “flawless,” while Maura Johnston of Slate characterized it as “airy yet precise.”
Cultural Standing
Jepsen has been referred to as a queer icon, having performed at several pride parades and with many fans being gay men in their 30s. In March 2013, Jepsen pulled out of performing at the Boy Scouts of America 2013 National Scout Jamboree due to their policy on homosexuality.
Personal
In September 2024, Jepsen announced her engagement to American record producer Cole M.G.N. They married on October 4, 2025. On November 3, 2025, the couple announced that they were expecting their first child.
Carly Rae Jepsen and husband Cole M.G.N.
Credit : Vanessa Heins /@vanessaheins (2)
Discography
Studio albums |
7 |
|---|---|
EPs |
3 |
Singles |
29 |
Music videos |
27 |
Remix albums |
2 |
Promotional singles |
19 |
Tao-Talk 
I saw her way back when – Justin Bieber introduced her on like Ellen or something. I had often wondered whatever happened to her. Thanks for the update and sampling of her music.
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Glad you have a memory associated with her. So many of the women covered this month are brand new to me. You are welcome, Dear V.
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Great shout out and so well deserved!!! 💕 She’s the best and love she’s married and expecting.. OMG I LOVE Call me Maybe.. great memories singing it in town for karaoke with one of my besties💃🏻💃🏻💃🏻 Never saw this.. LOVE💃🏻💕🌹🌹
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Oh WOW, Cindy, I love hearing you are a fan of hers. Happy you’ve seen it now. I’m visualizing and hearing you singing karaoke with one of your besties. You look like you’re having a great time <3
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I really like that duet with Rufus. Their voices blend well. (K)
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I do too. I just saw Rufus on another blog. Making a comeback?
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He’s made a lot of good music and works/plays well with others
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Good to know. I know his name more than anything.
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His parents are Louden Wainwright and Kate McGarrigle so good genes. I really like the duets album he did “Folkocracy” but also a lot of his early stuff. I haven’t seen anything recent either.
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That’s a cute picture of the happy couple. Didn’t really know what happened to her of late.
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Well now you know, Randy :)
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Finally an artist in your great series I’ve heard of for sure, not maybe! :-)
Perhaps not surprisingly, I know Carly Rae Jepsen because of her mega hit “Call Me Maybe.” While her music isn’t so much my cup of tea, I can’t deny she’s pretty likeable, and I’m not surprised she has enjoyed decent popularity. Her career trajectory from barista, assistant pastry chef and bartender to pop star is pretty impressive.
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Awesome, Christian. I like the video for that one :)
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I’ve heard of this artist…either on Christian or Graham’s site…I have found a few things I do like by her. She came a long way!
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Max, yes she has! Hope you have been enjoying your week. It’s been non-stop business here during the day. At night I recover from it. Watching Resident Alien S4, which is really going off the chain. I love that show!
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It’s been a busy week but it’s been a good busy…busy enough so time goes by fast….glad people are stopping by your site! I’ve heard of that but haven’t seen it.
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Glad it’s been good busy for you. The show is funny as all get-out.
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Cool….I’ll ask Bailey if he has seen it
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