Ricki-Lee

Ricki-Lee

Ricki-Lee Dawn Coulter is an Australian singer-songwriter, television and radio presenter, and model. She grows up on the Gold Coast in Queensland after being born in Auckland. She performs mononymously as Ricki-Lee and has a career that spans pop music, television, radio, and endorsement work.

Australian Idol and early music career

In 2004, she auditions for the second season of Australian Idol. She finishes in seventh place, and her elimination attracts attention from viewers and commentators. She signs to the Australian independent label Shock Records and releases her self-titled debut album in 2005. The album produces the top-ten singles "Hell No!" and "Sunshine", both certified gold by the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA).

Young Divas and solo albums

In 2006, Coulter joins the Australian all-girl pop group Young Divas, then leaves in early 2007 to continue as a solo artist. Her second album, Brand New Day, is released in 2007 and is certified gold. It includes the top-ten singles "Love Is All Around", "Can't Sing a Different Song" and "Can't Touch It"; the last of these becomes a platinum seller. Her first compilation album, The Singles, follows in 2008 and includes the top-twenty lead single "Wiggle It".

Later releases and media work

In 2011, she ends her contract with Shock Records and signs with EMI. Her third album, Fear & Freedom, is released in 2012 and includes the top-twenty singles "Raining Diamonds" and "Do It Like That", both certified platinum. Alongside recording, she works in television and radio, and receives several endorsement deals.

She returns to Australian Idol for seasons six and seven as a presenter and reporter with James Mathison and Andrew Günsberg. This work leads to a nomination at the 2009 Logie Awards for Most Popular New Female Talent. In 2010, she becomes a full-time breakfast presenter on Sydney radio station Nova 96.9, alongside Merrick Watts and Scott Dooley.

Endorsements

In 2008, Ricki-Lee becomes an ambassador for the Australian shapewear brand Hold Me Tight. In 2012, she becomes the Australian face of the international cosmetics brand CoverGirl.