Elena Alexandra Apostoleanu (born 16 October 1986), known professionally as Inna, is a Romanian singer and songwriter. Born in Mangalia and raised in Neptun, she studied political science at the Ovidius University before meeting Romanian trio Play & Win and pursuing a music career. She adopted the stage name "Alessandra" in 2008 and approached a pop-rock style; later that year, she changed her stage name to "Inna" and began releasing house music. "Hot" (2008), her debut single, was a commercial success worldwide and topped Billboard's Hot Dance Airplay chart. She subsequently signed with Ultra Records in April 2009. Her debut studio album of the same name followed in August 2009 and was certified Gold and Platinum.