Hayden Silas Anhedönia, known professionally as Ethel Cain, is an American singer-songwriter, record producer, and model who has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated cult following for her atmospheric, narrative-rich music. Born in 1998, Cain initially released music under various aliases before adopting her current moniker. Her early work, including the 2021 extended play Inbred, which featured the popular single "Crush," established her signature blend of ambient textures and Southern Gothic themes.
Cain's breakthrough came with her debut studio album, Preacher's Daughter (2022). The concept album received widespread critical praise for its dark, cinematic storytelling and exploration of religious and familial trauma. Following its vinyl release in 2025, the album reached number ten on the US Billboard 200 chart, making Cain the first transgender artist to achieve a top-ten album on the chart.
Continuing to expand her sonic palette, Cain released the experimental drone-music recording Perverts in 2025. Later that same year, she released her second studio album, Willoughby Tucker, I'll Always Love You, which serves as a lyrical prequel to her debut. Through her evocative songwriting and distinct aesthetic, Cain has established herself as a prominent voice in contemporary alternative music.
