Early Life

Lights (born Valerie Anne Poxleitner-Bokan on April 11, 1987) is a Canadian singer, songwriter, musician, producer, illustrator, and author. Born in Timmins, Ontario, she spent parts of her childhood in different countries due to her family’s missionary work. From an early age, she developed a passion for music, learning multiple instruments and writing songs that reflected her creativity and imagination.

Breakthrough and Early Success

Lights first gained widespread attention with her debut EP, Lights (2008), which introduced listeners to her signature blend of synth-pop, electronic sounds, and heartfelt lyrics. Her debut studio album, The Listening (2009), became a major success in Canada, earning critical acclaim and establishing her as one of the country’s most promising artists.

Musical Growth and Evolution

In 2011, Lights released Siberia, showcasing a darker and more experimental sound while maintaining the emotional honesty that resonated with fans. The album expanded her international audience and demonstrated her growth as both a songwriter and performer. She continued this evolution with Little Machines, featuring polished production, memorable melodies, and some of her most successful songs.

Creative Projects and Artistic Vision

Throughout her career, Lights has been recognized for blending electronic pop with deeply personal storytelling. Her later albums, including Skin&Earth and PEP, further highlighted her creativity. Skin&Earth was especially notable because it was accompanied by a comic book series that she personally wrote and illustrated, showcasing her talents beyond music.

Collaborations and Influence

Beyond recording and touring, Lights has collaborated with numerous artists across pop, electronic, and alternative genres. Her artistic style combines vivid visuals, emotional themes, and uplifting messages about identity, growth, and self-expression. Over the years, she has received multiple awards and nominations, earning recognition as one of Canada’s most respected contemporary musicians.

Legacy and Today

Today, Lights continues to create music, visual art, and innovative creative projects that inspire fans around the world. Her dedication to authenticity, artistic independence, and constant innovation has helped her build a lasting legacy and a loyal global fan community.