Amy Winehouse - Biography

Rate: It's hard to know where to start with Amy Winehouse. We don't really want to get too dogged down with the rumours, the gossip, the relationships, the kebabs... you know? So let's start at the beginning, when she appeared as a nice wholesome girl.

Amy was born to a Jewish family in London where she attended the Sylvia Young Theatre School. We're sorry to report that she also attended the annoying BRITS School, too. But don't hold that against her.

Her passion for music was recognised when a demo of hers landed in the palms of an A&R bloke, leading to her being signed by Island/Universal Records. Her first album, Frank, had a brilliant reception from the public and critics. But this was nowhere near the success of follow-up, Back to Black, which has gone on to propel Amy into the international spotlight. You won't hear her singing any of her earlier stuff any time soon because we've heard on the grapevine that she's not very keen on it - so much so that she can't bear to listen to it!

Despite all of the success - and the fantastically huge beehive hair - Amy's personal life is a constant source of scrutiny from the media. It's impossible to get into here but words for you to think about include: Blake. Drugs. Kebab. Health. Jail.

Apart from listening to her music, that's all you need to know.

Amy has a little-known duet with friend Tyler James on his album, The Unlikely Lad.