Bleona Qereti is a talented Albanian-American singer, songwriter, actress, and cultural icon who has captivated audiences worldwide with her powerful voice and magnetic stage presence. Born on May 14, 1979, in Korçë, Albania, she has built an impressive career spanning over two decades.
Known as the “Madonna of Albania,” Bleona has achieved remarkable success on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart, collaborated with Grammy-winning producers like Timbaland, and starred in Hollywood films alongside A-list actors. Her journey from a small Albanian city to international stardom is nothing short of inspiring.
Table of Contents
Quick Info
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bleona Nazmi Qereti |
| Stage Name | Bleona |
| Date of Birth | May 14, 1979 |
| Age | 46 years old (as of 2026) |
| Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
| Birthplace | Korçë, Albania |
| Current Residence | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Nationality | Albanian-American |
| Citizenship | Naturalized U.S. Citizen (since 2011) |
| Ethnicity | Albanian |
| Height | Approximately 5’7″ (170 cm) |
| Occupation | Singer, Songwriter, Actress, Model, TV Personality |
| Genres | Pop, Dance, Electronic, Euro Pop |
| Years Active | 1996–Present (30+ years) |
| Languages | Albanian, English, Italian, German |
| Parents | Oli Qereti (Mother), Nazmi Qereti (Father) |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Ex-Husband | Gani Bardha (m. 2001–2011) |
| Children | None (publicly known) |
| Education | BA in Performing Arts (Academy of Performing Arts, Tirana) |
| Instruments | Vocals, Violin |
| Net Worth | $8–15 Million (estimated) |
| Record Sales | 7+ Million Worldwide |
| Studio Albums | 8 (Albanian), Multiple English Singles |
| Billboard Achievement | First #1 on Dance Club Songs Chart (2019) |
| Nickname | “Madonna of Albania” |
| Social Media | Instagram: @bleona |
| Official Website | www bleona com |
Early Life and Background
Childhood in Korçë, Albania
Bleona Qereti was born in Korçë, a historic city in southeastern Albania, to parents Oli and Nazmi Qereti. Growing up in Albania during a transformative period in the country’s history, young Bleona showed extraordinary musical talent from an early age. At just five years old, she joined the prestigious House of Pionieri, a cultural institution that nurtured young artistic talents in Albania.
Her parents recognized her exceptional abilities and supported her passion for music and performance. However, when Bleona turned 13, they encouraged her to focus on academics instead of pursuing an entertainment career. Despite their well-meaning advice, the determined teenager continued to follow her dreams, knowing that music was her true calling.
Breaking Into Entertainment
At 14 years old, Bleona earned a major breakthrough when she auditioned and landed the lead singer position at the Skampa Theater in Elbasan, Albania. This role marked the beginning of her professional career and gave her invaluable stage experience. Her performances quickly gained attention, and by age 15, she had become a household name in Albania after a memorable performance at the Albanian National Music Festival.
Bleona’s dedication to her craft extended beyond singing. She studied the Stanislavski System of acting and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from the Academy of Performing Arts in Tirana. She also learned to play the violin, showcasing her diverse artistic abilities. Her commitment to learning Italian through music demonstrates her innovative approach to education and her passion for connecting with international audiences.
Career Journey: From Albania to Hollywood
Early Career in Albania (1996-2009)
Bleona’s recording career officially began in 1996 when she released her first single, “Lermëni (Let Me Be Free).” The song resonated with Albanian audiences and established her as a rising star. The following year, in 1997, she released her debut album “Kam Qejfin Tim” (I Run My Own Game), which perfectly captured her independent spirit and artistic vision.
Her first major tour took place in 1997, featuring 25 summer shows at concert halls across Switzerland and Germany. This European tour introduced her to the Albanian diaspora communities and helped build her international fanbase. From 1998 through 2002, Bleona released four more albums, all of which reached impressive chart positions throughout southeastern Europe.
In 1999, she headlined the Humanitarian Tour for the People of Kosovo, performing numerous concerts across Europe to support the Kosovo cause. This demonstrated her commitment to using her platform for meaningful purposes. Between 2000 and 2001, she performed more than 80 concerts across Europe, cementing her status as one of Albania’s most successful musical exports.
The year 2003 saw the release of “Ti Nuk Di As Me Ma Lyp,” an album that reportedly sold 400,000 copies according to Albanian media reports. Her 2007 album “Mandarin” allegedly broke her previous records with over 800,000 copies sold. During this period, she famously dyed her hair red to match the album’s title (which means “tangerine”), keeping the distinctive color for promotional music videos.
Throughout the 2000s, Bleona toured extensively in Kosovo, England, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy. In 2005, her song “S’dua” received the Television Prize (Çmimi Televiziv) at the Kënga Magjike (Magic Song) festival in Tirana. By 2008, she won two awards (media and internet) with the song “Magnetic” at the Magic Song Festival Awards.
American Breakthrough (2010-Present)
Moving to Los Angeles
In September 2010, Bleona made the life-changing decision to move to the United States, settling in Los Angeles, California. This move represented a new chapter in her career as she set her sights on conquering the American music market. Shortly after arriving, she attended the Grammy Awards where she met legendary producer Timbaland. After a year of discussions and negotiations, they began collaborating on new tracks.
Her first English-language single, “Show Off,” featuring rapper Petey Pablo, was released on September 27, 2010. This marked her official entry into the American music scene. Bleona also worked with other top-tier producers including Rodney Jerkins, Grammy Award winner David Foster, Makeba, and Jimmy Douglass.
In February 2011, Bleona became a naturalized citizen of the United States, officially becoming an Albanian-American. This milestone represented her commitment to building her career in America while maintaining her Albanian heritage and identity.
Chart Success and Timbaland Collaboration
September 2012 brought the release of “Pass Out,” a single co-produced with Timbaland and featuring rapper Brasco. To promote the single, Bleona embarked on a European tour, performing in Albanian cities including Vlora, Elbasan, Shkoder, and Tirana, as well as Pristina in Kosovo, Tetovo in Macedonia, and Düsseldorf, Germany. According to CNA reports, her 2012 tour concerts exceeded all expectations, reaching over 70,000 spectators.
In mid-2013, Bleona released “Take It Like a Man,” produced by StopWaitGo. Music critics praised the track, with EQ Music Blog describing it as “a pop fizzy anthem that bubbles with euro pop sensibility.” The song reached number 7 on the UK club charts, and Bleona celebrated this success by headlining Las Vegas Gay Pride on September 7, 2013.
She became a regular performer at prestigious LGBTQ+ events, including consecutive appearances at the Palm Springs White Party in 2013 and 2014. Her support for LGBTQ+ rights and her championing of female empowerment have made her a beloved figure in these communities.
Billboard Chart Domination
Bleona’s biggest commercial success came with “Take You Over,” which peaked at number 3 on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart in 2015. This achievement marked her arrival as a major force in American dance music.
In February 2019, Bleona reached the pinnacle of her music career when “I Don’t Need Your Love” hit number 1 on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. This historic achievement made her the first Albanian artist to top this prestigious chart. The song’s success validated years of hard work and proved that Bleona could compete with the biggest names in dance music.
Her other Billboard Dance Club Songs chart successes include:
- “Take It Like a Man” – peaked at number 31
- “Wicked Love” – reached number 12
- “Monster” – peaked at number 12
“Take You Over” also charted at number 28 on the Billboard Dance/Electronic Songs chart, demonstrating her crossover appeal.
Acting Career
Film Roles
Bleona made her acting debut in 2012 with an appearance in an episode of Steven Seagal’s action series “True Justice.” This initial foray into acting opened doors to more substantial roles.
In 2017, she landed a role in “Dead Trigger” alongside action star Dolph Lundgren. The following year, in 2018, Bleona appeared in “211,” an action-thriller starring Nicolas Cage. Playing the role of Christine, she held her own alongside Hollywood veterans.
Her first major acting role came in 2019 when she was cast as Nova in the series “Paper Empire.” The show featured an impressive ensemble cast including Wesley Snipes, Denise Richards, Robert Davi, and Anne Archer. This role showcased Bleona’s ability to handle dramatic material and demonstrated her versatility as a performer.
More recently, she appeared in “Chief of Station” (2024) with Aaron Eckhart, further establishing her presence in Hollywood action films. Notably, she spoke Albanian in this film, bringing authentic representation to her role.
Television Appearances
Bleona’s television career extends beyond acting. In February 2014, she began shooting “Euros of Hollywood,” a reality television series that premiered on November 3, 2014, on Bravo. The show followed Bleona as she recorded her first album in English and navigated life in America while pursuing global superstar status. She became the breakout star of the series, which introduced her personality and story to American audiences.
In 2015, Bleona returned to Albania to serve as a judge on the fourth season of X Factor Albania. Her experience as an international artist made her a valuable mentor to aspiring singers. The following year, in 2016, she joined the jury of the Albanian version of “Your Face Sounds Familiar.”
In 2021, Bleona joined the Albanian reality television show “Love Story” as an opinionist, continuing her presence on Albanian television while maintaining her American career.
She has also made appearances on “Fashion News Live” (2011) and various other television programs throughout her career.
How Old is Bleona Qereti?
Born on May 14, 1979, Bleona Qereti is currently 46 years old as of 2026. She is a Taurus, known for characteristics like determination, creativity, and a love for beauty and luxury – traits that clearly manifest in her career and artistic expression.
As a member of Generation X, Bleona grew up during a fascinating period of global change, particularly in Albania as it transitioned from communist rule to democracy. This unique background has influenced her worldview and artistic perspective.
Despite being in her mid-40s, Bleona maintains the energy and stage presence that has defined her career. Her age represents not limitations but rather decades of accumulated experience, wisdom, and artistic refinement.
Bleona Qereti Net Worth
Estimating celebrity net worth is always challenging, but based on her extensive career, Bleona Qereti net worth is estimated to be between $8 million and $15 million as of 2026.
Income Sources
Music Sales and Streaming: With eight studio albums in Albanian and numerous English singles, Bleona has generated substantial revenue from record sales. Reports suggest she has sold approximately 7 million records worldwide throughout her career. Her Billboard chart successes have brought streaming revenue from platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.
Live Performances: Bleona’s concert tours have been major income generators. Her European tours regularly attracted tens of thousands of fans, with her 2012 tour alone reportedly drawing over 70,000 spectators. Performance fees for headlining major events like the Palm Springs White Party and Las Vegas Pride contribute significantly to her earnings.
Acting Roles: Her appearances in Hollywood films alongside stars like Nicolas Cage, Wesley Snipes, and Dolph Lundgren have added to her wealth. While specific salaries aren’t public, roles in theatrical releases typically pay well.
Television Appearances: Her reality show “Euros of Hollywood” on Bravo, judging positions on X Factor Albania and Your Face Sounds Familiar, and other TV work provide additional income streams.
Brand Endorsements: As a style icon who has appeared on over 40 magazine covers, Bleona has opportunities for endorsement deals and sponsorships, though specific partnerships aren’t widely publicized.
Royalties and Publishing: As a songwriter, Bleona earns ongoing royalties from her music catalog, providing passive income that continues to grow.
Relationships: Boyfriend/Husband
Marriage to Gani Bardha
Bleona Qereti was previously married to Gani Bardha, a relationship that lasted from 2001 to 2011. The couple spent a decade together during a significant period of Bleona’s career growth. However, like many celebrity marriages, theirs faced challenges, and they eventually divorced.
The end of their marriage coincided with Bleona’s move to the United States and her career transition to the American market. Some sources suggest the geographic distance and career demands may have contributed to their separation.
Current Relationship Status
As of 2026, Bleona appears to be single and focused on her career. She maintains privacy regarding her personal life, rarely discussing romantic relationships in interviews or on social media. This discretion has allowed her to keep her private life separate from her public persona.
Bleona has never publicly confirmed any serious relationships since her divorce from Gani Bardha. She occasionally shares aspects of her personal life with fans through social media but keeps romantic matters private.
Her independence and focus on her career align with her self-described personality as someone who runs her own game, as reflected in her debut album title “Kam Qejfin Tim” (I Run My Own Game).
Social Media Presence
Bleona Qereti maintains an active presence across multiple social media platforms, connecting with fans worldwide and sharing glimpses of her professional and personal life.
Instagram: @bleona
Instagram is Bleona’s primary social media platform. Her account @bleona features glamorous photoshoots, behind-the-scenes content from music video productions, throwback photos from her Albanian career, fitness and lifestyle content, and messages of empowerment for her followers.
Her Instagram aesthetic reflects her status as a fashion and style icon, with professionally shot images showcasing designer outfits, red carpet appearances, and artistic photography. She uses the platform to announce new music releases, share performance clips, and interact with fans.
Other Social Media Platforms
Twitter/X: Bleona uses Twitter to share thoughts, promote her work, and engage in conversations with fans and fellow artists.
Facebook: Her Facebook page serves as another channel for announcements and connecting with her fanbase, particularly her Albanian supporters.
YouTube: Bleona’s YouTube channel hosts her music videos, including “I Don’t Need Your Love,” “Take You Over,” “Pass Out,” and many others. The platform has been crucial for reaching international audiences.
TikTok: Like many artists, Bleona has embraced TikTok to reach younger audiences and participate in trending challenges.
Engagement with Fans
Bleona is known for being accessible to her fans on social media. She often responds to comments, shares fan art and tributes, and expresses gratitude for their support. This direct connection has helped maintain her loyal fanbase across continents.
Her social media content balances professional promotion with personal moments, giving followers a well-rounded view of her life as an international entertainer. She frequently posts motivational messages, encouraging her followers to pursue their dreams regardless of obstacles.
Physical Appearance and Style
Height and Build
While exact measurements aren’t officially confirmed, Bleona Qereti stands approximately 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall. She maintains a fit, athletic physique through regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle, which she occasionally shares glimpses of on social media.
Distinctive Features
Bleona is known for several distinctive physical features:
Hair: She’s experimented with various hair colors throughout her career, most notably her red hair phase during the “Mandarin” album era (2006-2007). She typically wears long, flowing hair styled in glamorous waves.
Eyes: Her expressive eyes have been highlighted in countless photoshoots and magazine covers.
Style: Bleona’s fashion sense blends European sophistication with American glamour. She’s comfortable in both elegant gowns for red carpet events and edgy performance outfits for concerts.
Fashion Icon Status
Having appeared on over 40 magazine covers throughout her career, Bleona has established herself as a style icon. Her fashion choices often make headlines, whether she’s attending award shows, performing on stage, or appearing in music videos.
She works with top stylists and designers to create memorable looks that reflect her artistic vision. Her style evolution from her Albanian pop star days to her current international glamour persona demonstrates her adaptability and understanding of visual branding.
Bleona’s stage costumes are particularly notable, often featuring bold colors, dramatic silhouettes, and performance-friendly designs that allow her to move freely while maintaining visual impact.
Major Achievements and Awards
Music Accomplishments
Billboard Chart Success:
- First Albanian artist to reach #1 on Billboard Dance Club Songs (“I Don’t Need Your Love,” 2019)
- Three other Billboard Dance Club Songs Top 15 hits
- Billboard Dance/Electronic Songs charting
Album Sales:
- Approximately 7 million records sold worldwide
- Multiple platinum and gold certifications in Albania and neighboring countries
- Eight studio albums released
International Recognition:
- UK club charts Top 10 success with “Take It Like a Man”
- Extensive touring across Europe, United States, and the Balkans
- Performances reaching over 70,000 spectators in single tours
Awards and Honors
Albanian Music Awards:
- Television Prize (Çmimi Televiziv) at Kënga Magjike 2005 for “S’dua”
- Two awards (Media and Internet) at Magic Song Festival Awards 2008 for “Magnetic”
- Multiple other Albanian music industry recognitions
Industry Recognition:
- Featured on over 40 magazine covers internationally
- Recognition as “Madonna of Albania”
- Acknowledged as a pioneer for Albanian artists in American markets
Cultural Impact
LGBTQ+ Advocacy: Bleona is a champion of LGBTQ+ rights and has become an icon in the community through her music, performances at Pride events, and public support.
Female Empowerment: She advocates for women’s empowerment and independence, serving as a role model for young women, particularly in Albania and the Albanian diaspora.
Albanian Representation: As one of the most successful Albanian artists internationally, Bleona has opened doors for other Albanian performers and brought positive attention to Albanian culture.
Complete Discography
Studio Albums
- Kam Qejfin Tim (I Run My Own Game) – 1997
- Nese Me Do Fort – 1999
- S’me Behet Vone – 2001
- Ik Meso Si Dashurohet – 2002
- Ti Nuk Di As Me Ma Lyp – 2003
- Greatest Hits – 2005
- Boom Boom – 2005
- Mandarin – 2007
Notable Singles
Albanian Singles:
- “Lermëni (Let Me Be Free)” (1996) – debut single
- “S’dua” (2005)
- “Magnetic” (2008)
- “Mandarine” (2007)
English Singles:
- “Show Off” featuring Petey Pablo (2010)
- “Pass Out” featuring Timbaland and Brasco (2012)
- “Take It Like a Man” (2013)
- “Take You Over” (2015)
- “Su di noi” (Italian cover, 2017)
- “Wicked Love” (2018)
- “Monster” (2018)
- “I Don’t Need Your Love” (2019)
Music Videos
Bleona has created visually stunning music videos throughout her career, with productions filmed in locations ranging from Albania to Malibu’s El Matador Beach. Her videos often feature high production values, creative concepts, and choreography that showcases her performance abilities.
Personal Life and Interests
Multilingual Abilities
One of Bleona’s most impressive personal attributes is her multilingual fluency. She speaks four languages: Albanian (her native language), English, Italian (which she learned through music), and German. This linguistic versatility has enabled her to connect with diverse audiences and expand her career across multiple markets.
Her method of learning Italian through music demonstrates her innovative approach to education and her deep connection to musical expression. She often performs in Italian, adding another dimension to her artistic repertoire.
Education and Training
Beyond her natural talent, Bleona invested significantly in her artistic education:
Academy of Performing Arts, Tirana: Graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree, where she studied the Stanislavski System of acting – the same method used by many Hollywood actors.
Musical Training: Started at age 5 at the House of Pionieri, learning violin and vocal performance.
This formal education combined with her natural abilities created a well-rounded artist capable of excelling in multiple entertainment fields.
Residency and Lifestyle
Since 2010, Bleona has lived in Los Angeles, California, though she maintains strong connections to Albania and frequently visits for performances and personal reasons. Her Los Angeles lifestyle reflects her status as an international entertainer, with access to the entertainment industry’s heart.
She enjoys fitness and wellness activities, as evidenced by her social media posts featuring workouts and healthy lifestyle choices. Her Mediterranean heritage combined with California wellness culture creates a balanced approach to health and wellbeing.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
While specific charitable work isn’t extensively publicized, Bleona’s 1999 Humanitarian Tour for the People of Kosovo demonstrated her commitment to using her platform for meaningful causes. She continues to advocate for:
- Women’s rights and empowerment
- LGBTQ+ equality and acceptance
- Albanian cultural preservation and promotion
- Arts education for young people
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Breaking Barriers
Bleona Qereti’s significance extends beyond her personal success. As one of the first Albanian artists to achieve mainstream success in the United States, she has broken cultural and linguistic barriers that seemed insurmountable.
Her Billboard Dance Club Songs #1 hit proved that Albanian artists could compete at the highest levels of the American music industry. This achievement inspired countless Albanian and Balkan artists to pursue international careers.
Representing Albanian Culture
Known as the “Madonna of Albania,” Bleona carries the responsibility of representing her homeland on the global stage. She has brought Albanian culture, language, and artistry to millions of people who might never have encountered it otherwise.
Her appearance in “Chief of Station” speaking Albanian in a Hollywood film represents meaningful cultural representation. Such moments normalize Albanian language and culture in mainstream American entertainment.
Influence on Female Artists
As a female artist who built her career on her own terms, Bleona serves as a role model for aspiring female entertainers. Her debut album title “I Run My Own Game” perfectly encapsulates her independent approach to business and artistry.
She has navigated the male-dominated music industry, particularly in the dance and electronic music genres, while maintaining her artistic integrity and vision. Her success demonstrates that female artists can achieve longevity and commercial success without compromising their values.
Bridging Cultures
Bleona’s career represents a bridge between Eastern European and American popular culture. She maintains authentic connections to her Albanian roots while embracing American entertainment industry standards and styles.
Her multilingual performances, diverse musical collaborations, and international tours create cultural exchange opportunities. Fans in Albania see American production values and styles, while American fans experience Albanian passion and artistry.
Current Projects and Future Outlook (2026)
As of 2026, Bleona continues to work on new music and explore opportunities in both the music and film industries. While specific upcoming projects haven’t been publicly announced, her social media suggests active studio time and creative development.
Her proven ability to adapt to changing music industry trends, from the album era to streaming dominance, suggests she will continue finding success regardless of industry shifts. The rise of TikTok and short-form video content presents new opportunities for viral moments and connecting with younger audiences.
Bleona’s established fanbase provides a stable foundation for whatever direction her career takes next. Whether releasing new dance tracks, pursuing more substantial acting roles, or exploring other entertainment ventures, her track record suggests continued success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bleona Qereti married?
No, Bleona Qereti is not currently married. She was previously married to Gani Bardha from 2001 to 2011 but has been single since their divorce. She maintains privacy regarding her personal relationships.
What is Bleona Qereti nationality?
Bleona Qereti is Albanian-American. She was born in Albania but became a naturalized United States citizen in February 2011. She maintains strong connections to both countries and their cultures.
How did Bleona become famous?
Bleona first became famous in Albania as a teenager after performing at the Albanian National Music Festival at age 15. She built a successful career throughout Albania and the Balkans during the 1990s and 2000s before transitioning to the American market in 2010. Her collaboration with Timbaland and subsequent Billboard chart success brought her international recognition.
What languages does Bleona speak?
Bleona speaks four languages fluently: Albanian (her native language), English, Italian (learned through music), and German. This multilingual ability has been crucial to her international career success.
What is Bleona’s most successful song?
“I Don’t Need Your Love” (2019) is arguably Bleona’s most successful song, as it reached #1 on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart, making her the first Albanian artist to achieve this milestone. “Take You Over” (2015), which peaked at #3 on the same chart, is also among her biggest hits.
Has Bleona won any awards?
Yes, Bleona has won several awards, primarily in Albania. Notable recognitions include the Television Prize at Kënga Magjike 2005 for “S’dua” and two awards at the Magic Song Festival Awards 2008 for “Magnetic.” Her Billboard chart achievements also represent significant industry recognition.
Where can I follow Bleona on social media?
You can follow Bleona on Instagram @bleona, where she is most active. She also maintains presence on Twitter/X, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok under similar handles.
What movies has Bleona appeared in?
Bleona has appeared in several films including “True Justice” (2012), “Dead Trigger” (2017), “211” (2018) with Nicolas Cage, “Paper Empire” (2019) with Wesley Snipes, and “Chief of Station” (2024) with Aaron Eckhart.
Conclusion
Bleona Qereti’s journey from Korçë, Albania, to international stardom exemplifies determination, talent, and cultural bridge-building. Over more than 25 years in entertainment, she has evolved from Albania’s pop princess to a Billboard chart-topping artist and Hollywood actress.
Her achievements – 7 million records sold, Billboard #1 hits, starring roles in films, and appearances on 40+ magazine covers – tell only part of the story. The real legacy lies in the barriers broken, the representation provided, and the inspiration given to aspiring artists from Albania and beyond.
At 46 years old with an estimated net worth of $8-15 million, Bleona has achieved financial success while maintaining artistic integrity. Her multilingual abilities, diverse skill set spanning music and acting, and authentic connection to her Albanian heritage while embracing American culture make her truly unique in the entertainment industry.
As she continues creating new music and exploring new opportunities in 2026 and beyond, Bleona Qereti remains a powerful force in entertainment. Her story proves that with talent, determination, and the courage to pursue dreams against all odds, anything is possible.
For fans and aspiring artists alike, Bleona’s message remains clear: run your own game, stay true to yourself, and never let anyone limit your dreams. The “Madonna of Albania” has carved her own path, and her legacy will inspire generations to come.
