Discover Yungblud biography, an inspiring journey from Doncaster actor to chart-topping rock star. Learn about Dominic Harrison’s music career, personal life, and impact on Gen-Z culture.
Dominic Richard Harrison, born 5 August 1997, known professionally as Yungblud, is an English singer, songwriter and actor who has become one of the most influential voices in modern alternative rock. This Yorkshire-born artist has twisted genres and societal conventions, incorporating rock, punk, and hip-hop into a rebellious mix that endeared him to the outcast masses around the globe, establishing himself as a cultural icon for Generation Z.
In 2018, he released his debut EP Yungblud, followed by his first full-length album 21st Century Liability, marking his explosive entry into the music industry. His ability to blend punk spirit with pop savvy enabled him to make a steady climb in the late 2010s before scoring hits with Halsey, Machine Gun Kelly, and frequent collaborator Travis Barker.
What sets Yungblud apart in today’s music landscape is his fearless approach to addressing social issues and his commitment to being a voice for marginalized communities. In 2019, he released his second EP, The Underrated Youth, and the following year, he released his second studio album, Weird!, which peaked at the top of the UK Albums Chart and reached number 75 on the US Billboard 200.
His third album, titled Yungblud like his first EP, was released in 2022 and reached number 1 on the UK Album Charts, as well as number 45 on the Billboard 200 and number 7 on the U.S. Top Rock Albums chart, cementing his status as one of Britain’s most successful alternative rock artists of his generation.
With every song, he reminds us that it’s okay to be different, to feel deeply, and to fight for what you believe in. His story—from a boy in Doncaster to a global rock icon—is a powerful testament to the strength of authenticity, passion, and art.
Contents
- 1 Early Life & Background: Musical Roots in Yorkshire
- 2 Yungblud Educational Journey: From Acting School to Rock Stardom
- 3 Yungblud Career Journey: From Conformity to Authenticity
- 4 Yungblud Personal Life: Relationships, Identity, and Advocacy
- 5 Social Activism and Advocacy
- 6 Yungblud Career Timeline & Major Milestones
- 7 Conclusion: A Voice for the Outsiders
- 8 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Early Life & Background: Musical Roots in Yorkshire
Birth and Childhood in Doncaster
Harrison was born on 5 August 1997, in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, to Samantha and Justin Harrison, growing up in a town known more for its racing heritage than its music scene. Born Dominic Harrison in Yorkshire, the singer/songwriter was raised in a musical family where creativity was encouraged and music was literally in his blood.
He has two younger sisters, Jemima and Isobel, completing a close-knit family that supported his creative ambitions from an early age. His upbringing in a musically inclined family provided him with the foundation and confidence to pursue his artistic dreams.
Musical Heritage and Family Influence
He’s been surrounded by music his entire life, as his dad owned a guitar shop, and his grandfather, Rick Harrison, played with 70s rock band T. Rex. His father was a vintage guitar dealer who ran a guitar shop in Doncaster, which naturally influenced his early love for music and provided him with access to instruments and musical knowledge.
His grandfather, Rick Harrison, was part of the legendary glam rock band T. Rex, giving young Dominic a direct connection to rock royalty. Talk about rock royalty running through the family tree! He has often credited his family’s musical heritage as a major reason for his career path.
Music was more than just a hobby for young Dominic; it was in his blood. Growing up in a household where creativity was encouraged, Dom was exposed to rock music from day one, influenced by Bob Dylan, the Clash, and the Beatles, and he played guitar and sang from a young age.
Early Challenges and ADHD Diagnosis
Harrison was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) at a young age which, due to a lack of appropriate support for his diagnosis, made him a troublesome student. This diagnosis would later inform his understanding of feeling like an outsider and fuel his passion for advocating for those who feel marginalized.
His ADHD and the challenges it created in traditional educational settings contributed to his rebellious spirit and his empathy for others who don’t fit into conventional molds. These early struggles became part of the authenticity that resonates with his fanbase.
Yungblud Educational Journey: From Acting School to Rock Stardom
Arts Education and Acting Training
Before he pursued his music career, Yungblud studied at Arts Educational Schools in London, where he developed his performance skills and stage presence that would later become crucial to his music career.
His education at this prestigious performing arts school provided him with the technical skills in performance, expression, and audience engagement that distinguished him from other emerging musicians who lacked formal training in entertainment.
Early Acting Career
Before beginning his music career, Harrison was an actor, appearing in the TV series Emmerdale and The Lodge. Yeah, that’s right–the punk rock rebel got his start on British soap operas! His acting experience gave him valuable skills in storytelling, character development, and performance that translated directly to his music videos and live performances.
Before breaking into the music industry, the alternative music star was actually on Disney UK’s musical-mystery show, The Lodge, as a character called Oz – an out-of-town musician who came to stir up some drama, before the show got axed in 2017. This role was ironically fitting given his later career trajectory as an artist who stirs up conversations and challenges norms.
Yungblud Career Journey: From Conformity to Authenticity
Early Struggles and Finding His Voice
YUNGBLUD performed under his birth name—Dominic Harrison—when he was trying to make it in the industry. He met a management company and wrote songs with them, but tried to conform by making songs he didn’t want to make. Those songs did not get released, representing a dark period where he compromised his artistic vision.
He sang with an American accent and had songs such as “Miss Those Days,” attempting to fit into a mold that wasn’t authentic to who he was. Dom’s transformation from actor to musician wasn’t exactly smooth sailing, as he struggled to find his true artistic identity.
He later met another manager at a show he was playing at, and met their business partners; Declan Morrell and Tommas Arnby. He later met Mati Schwartz, who didn’t like his songs but whose criticism improved him, leading him to begin writing songs that Schwartz liked, and Schwartz took him on.
Creating the Yungblud Identity
He fashioned a name for himself YUNGBLUD – a play on the term “young blood” (the youngest of a group, in this case, the youngest artist on their roster). Yungblud’s full name is Dominic Richard Harrison and his stage name reflects both his youthful perspective and his bloodline—continuing the musical legacy from his family while defining his unique identity in the industry.
Breakthrough Singles and First EP (2017-2018)
On 7 April 2017, Yungblud released his first single, “King Charles,” a genre-blending protest song that fell somewhere between early Arctic Monkeys, Jamie T, and Rat Boy. This debut single announced his arrival as an artist unafraid to tackle political and social issues.
On 15 September 2017, he released “I Love You, Will You Marry Me,” a song about a dark, modern-day love story that incorporated some dub and grime elements. On 10 November 2017, he released “Tin Pan Boy,” a song about the construction project on Tin Pan Alley, a musical hotspot place in London.
On 19 January 2018, he released an EP, Yungblud (stylised in all capitals) which includes the three singles from earlier in the year. On 19 January 2018, he released “Polygraph Eyes” from the EP, a song about sexual assault against girls, demonstrating his willingness to address difficult social issues from a male perspective.
Debut Album and Rising Fame (2018)
On 6 July, Yungblud released his first album, 21st Century Liability, which made a solid chart showing in Australia and Belgium. A major-label deal with Geffen yielded this debut full-length that showcased his genre-blending approach and social consciousness.
In July 2018, he headed to the United States, hitting several tour dates as part of Vans Warped Tour. On 10 August he released an EP, containing seven acoustic versions of songs from 21st Century Liability, called Yungblud (Unplugged).
In August 2018, the music video for “Falling Skies” featuring Charlotte Lawrence was released from the season 2 soundtrack of Netflix’s series 13 Reasons Why, expanding his audience through mainstream media exposure.
Mainstream Breakthrough (2019)
Yungblud returned in early 2019 with “Parents,” “Loner,” and “11 Minutes,” the latter of which was a collaboration with Halsey and Travis Barker that became a major hit. On 14 February 2019, “11 Minutes” was released along with its music video, with lyrics about a relationship that fails due to self-sabotage.
Later in 2019, another track with Barker helped push Yungblud higher up the U.S. rock chart, this time with rapper Machine Gun Kelly on the raucous “I Think I’m Okay,” which became one of his biggest commercial successes.
Album Success and Pandemic Projects (2020-2021)
By 2020, Yungblud had achieved something incredible: Dom’s second record–2020’s catchy Weird!–hit Number One in the UK charts. Yungblud closed 2020 with the release of Weird!, which topped the U.K. albums chart, proving that alternative rock could still dominate the mainstream.
Yungblud launched a new at-home YouTube chat show, The YUNGBLUD Show, during the pandemic to distract fans from coronavirus, where he answered questions, performed songs and invited special guests including Machine Gun Kelly and Bella Thorne.
He returned in 2021 with a stirring live cover of David Bowie’s “Life on Mars,” which was used as the soundtrack to NASA’s livestream following the Perseverance Mars rover’s touchdown, showcasing his versatility and cultural reach.
Recent Work and Continued Evolution (2022-2025)
He started off 2022 with the fiery pop-punk single “The Funeral,” following it up with “Memories,” an angsty collaboration with U.S. pop star Willow. Yungblud’s eponymously titled third album arrived later in 2022, reaching number 1 on the UK Album Charts.
On 18 March 2025, Yungblud released the single Hello Heaven, Hello from his fourth studio album, Idols. The 27-year-old musician aims to break free from genre constraints and give fans a glimpse into his soul, showing an artist who’s constantly evolving.
Yungblud Personal Life: Relationships, Identity, and Advocacy
Sexuality and Gender Expression
He described himself as sexually fluid in an interview with Attitude in August 2019. In another interview with the magazine in December 2020, he described himself as pansexual and polyamorous, becoming an important voice for LGBTQ+ youth.
Known for his extravagant outfits and out-there sense of style, he’s no stranger to throwing on a dress to go on stage. He’s admitted that wearing a dress makes him “feel sexy” and challenges gender norms in fashion and expression.
High-Profile Relationships
He was in a relationship with American singer Halsey for several months; she confirmed their break-up in October 2019. Halsey posted the first picture of the two of them together in early December 2018, and they collaborated on “11 Minutes” with Travis Barker before their split.
In November 2020, Yungblud said that they broke up because they worked better as friends, maintaining mutual respect despite the end of their romantic relationship. He later dated Jesse Jo Stark, the daughter of fashion designer Cherie Currie, though they took a break from their relationship in 2024.
Mental Health and Personal Struggles
In August 2018, Yungblud tweeted that he has insomnia. In February 2020, he spoke to the Evening Standard and said that he had attempted suicide twice after going through a series of positive and negative events in his career, bravely opening up about mental health struggles.
His openness about mental health issues has made him an important advocate for young people struggling with similar challenges, breaking down stigmas around discussing depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation.
He attended the March For Our Lives rally in March 2018, following the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting, showing his commitment to gun control advocacy and youth activism.
In May/June 2020, he was filmed attending 4 days of the George Floyd protests in support of Black Lives Matter in California, actively participating in movements for racial justice.
Reproductive Rights and Human Rights
In September 2021, Yungblud was among several singer-songwriters who expressed opposition to the Texas Heartbeat Act that banned abortion in Texas, stating that, “The right to your body is yours and yours alone.”
On 24 September 2022, during his performance at the Firefly Music Festival in Dover, Delaware, Yungblud spoke about the death of Mahsa Amini and expressed his support for the resulting protests in Iran, demonstrating his global awareness.
LGBTQ+ and Trans Rights
In February 2023, following the death of Brianna Ghey, a 16-year-old British transgender girl, YUNGBLUD stated that he was “utterly heartbroken” and emphasized the necessity to “protect trans kids every day,” becoming a vocal advocate for trans rights and safety.
Yungblud Career Timeline & Major Milestones
| Year | Milestone | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1997 | Born August 5, Doncaster | Early life foundation |
| 2010s | Arts Educational Schools, London | Performance training |
| 2015-2016 | Emmerdale and The Lodge | Acting career |
| 2017 | “King Charles” debut single | Music career launch |
| 2018 | Debut EP and album 21st Century Liability | Professional breakthrough |
| 2019 | “11 Minutes” with Halsey | Mainstream success |
| 2019 | “I Think I’m Okay” with MGK | Chart success |
| 2020 | Weird! album #1 UK | Commercial peak |
| 2022 | Self-titled album Yungblud | Continued success |
| 2025 | Fourth album Idols | Ongoing evolution |
Conclusion: A Voice for the Outsiders
Yungblud’s story is compelling not just for his musical success but for his impact on youth culture. He’s become more than an entertainer; he’s a reminder that being different should be celebrated. His journey from a small-town actor to a global rock phenomenon proves that authenticity still matters in an age of manufactured pop stars.
As of 2025, Yungblud’s estimated net worth is over $4 million, including earnings from album sales, streaming royalties, merchandise, and world tours. Despite his wealth, Yungblud remains vocal about social issues and committed to his message of acceptance and rebellion against conformity.
As Yungblud continues to evolve as an artist and cultural figure, one thing remains constant: his unwavering commitment to his fans and his message. For a generation that often feels lost in the noise, Yungblud proves that sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply be yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Yungblud’s real name and age?
Real Name Yungblud’s real name is Dominic Richard Harrison, and his stage name is a play on the term “young blood.”
Age and Birth Details Born on 5 August 1997, Yungblud is 27 years old as of 2025. His star sign is Leo.
Origin He is British and was originally born in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, England, before moving to London at 16 years old.
2. What is Yungblud’s musical background?
Family Heritage His grandfather, Rick Harrison, played with the legendary 70s glam rock band T. Rex, and his father owned a vintage guitar shop in Doncaster.
Musical Influences Yungblud cites rock, pop and hip hop artists such as Arctic Monkeys, The Beatles, The Cure, Nirvana, the Clash, and many others as influences.
Early Start He began making music when he was only 11 years old, showing early passion for performance and songwriting.
3. What are Yungblud’s biggest hit songs?
Major Collaborations “11 Minutes” with Halsey and Travis Barker, “I Think I’m Okay” with Machine Gun Kelly and Travis Barker, and “Memories” with Willow are among his biggest hits.
Solo Success “Parents,” “Loner,” “The Funeral,” and “King Charles” represent his successful solo work that established his unique voice.
Album Success His album Weird! topped the UK Albums Chart in 2020, and his 2022 self-titled album also reached #1 in the UK.
4. What is Yungblud’s sexual orientation?
Identity He described himself as pansexual and polyamorous in December 2020 interviews with Attitude magazine, after previously describing himself as sexually fluid in 2019.
Expression He is known for challenging gender norms through fashion, often wearing dresses on stage and advocating for freedom of expression regardless of gender.
Advocacy His openness about his sexuality has made him an important voice for LGBTQ+ youth and a champion for acceptance and self-expression.
Multiple Causes He has attended March For Our Lives rallies for gun control, Black Lives Matter protests, and has spoken out for reproductive rights and trans rights.
Human Rights Activism He expressed support for Iranian protests following Mahsa Amini’s death and spoke out following the death of trans teenager Brianna Ghey in 2023.
Mental Health Advocacy He openly discusses his own mental health struggles, including suicide attempts, to help break stigmas and support young people facing similar challenges.
6. What is Yungblud’s relationship status?
Past Relationships He dated American singer Halsey briefly in 2019, and later dated Jesse Jo Stark starting in 2021, though they took a break from their relationship in 2024.
Current Status While specific current relationship details are private, he has remained focused on his music career and advocacy work while maintaining close connections with his fanbase, known as The Black Hearts Club.