Xhoana Xheneti, known professionally as Xhoana X, is a multifaceted artist whose journey from post-communist Albania to the vibrant entertainment scene of Los Angeles has captivated audiences worldwide. Born on February 27, 1989, in Tirana, Albania, Xhoana is 36 years old as of September 2025. Her life story is one of resilience, creativity, and cultural fusion, blending her Albanian heritage with the dynamic influences of American pop culture. As a singer, songwriter, model, and entrepreneur, she has carved a unique niche in the entertainment industry, gaining recognition for her electro-pop music, striking fashion sense, and engaging public persona.
Xhoana Xheneti stands as a luminous force in contemporary art and advocacy, blending Albanian heritage with global influence. Born in Tirana and later thriving in New York, she emerged as a multidisciplinary artist whose vibrant paintings, sculptures, and installations challenge societal norms on identity, femininity, and migration. A graduate of the Academy of Arts in Albania and Pratt Institute, Xheneti gained acclaim through solo exhibitions at galleries like Tulla Culture and features in Vogue Albania. Her work, often infused with bold colors and symbolic motifs, critiques cultural displacement while celebrating resilience. Beyond the canvas, she empowers women through mentorship programs and collaborations with NGOs, proving art’s role in social change. Xhoana’s journey reflects unyielding creativity and purpose-driven innovation.
Early Life: Growing Up in Post-Communist Albania
Xhoana Xheneti was born in Tirana, Albania, during a transformative period in the country’s history. The late 1980s and early 1990s marked the end of Albania’s communist regime, a time of significant social and economic upheaval. Growing up in a post-communist society, Xhoana was exposed to a world of limited access to Western media and culture, which shaped her early worldview. In a 2021 interview, she reflected on this period, noting, “When I was little, finally you could watch different TV channels and see things like MTV,” highlighting the stark contrast between her childhood and the opportunities she later encountered in the United States.
At the age of seven, Xhoana’s life changed dramatically when her mother won the Green Card Lottery, enabling the family to immigrate to the United States in 1996. Accompanied by her mother and older sister, Evis Xheneti, Xhoana left Albania after her parents’ divorce, embarking on a journey that would redefine her future. The move to the U.S. was a significant culture shock, as she transitioned from a third-world, post-communist country to the fast-paced, opportunity-rich environment of New York City. This relocation exposed her to diverse musical influences, from Tupac and Biggie to No Doubt and Radiohead, which would later shape her artistic style.
Xhoana’s early years in the U.S. were marked by adaptation and discovery. Growing up between New York and Los Angeles, she navigated the challenges of a new language and culture while maintaining a strong connection to her Albanian roots. Her multilingual skills—speaking Albanian, Italian, and English—reflect her diverse background and have been a cornerstone of her ability to connect with varied audiences. Her family, particularly her mother and sister, played a crucial role in supporting her through this transition, fostering a sense of resilience that would fuel her future endeavors.
Table 1: Xhoana Xheneti’s Early Life Details
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Xhoana Xheneti |
| Date of Birth | February 27, 1989 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 36 years old |
| Place of Birth | Tirana, Albania |
| Nationality | Albanian-American |
| Ethnicity | Albanian |
| Languages Spoken | Albanian, Italian, English |
| Immigration to U.S. | 1996, at age 7, with mother and sister Evis after mother won Green Card Lottery |
| Key Early Influence | Exposure to Western music (MTV, No Doubt, Tupac, Radiohead) |
Career Beginnings: From Modeling to Music
Xhoana Xheneti’s entry into the entertainment industry was a natural progression of her vibrant personality and striking presence. Initially gaining recognition as a model and actress, she appeared in television commercials and music videos, leveraging her unique style and charisma. Her work in modeling saw her collaborating with prominent brands and being featured in publications, earning accolades for her versatility and trendsetting fashion sense. Events like the Maxim Hot 100 in 2014 and Timberland’s Women’s Fall 2016 Collection showcase in West Hollywood highlighted her growing prominence in the fashion world.
Musical Evolution and Artistic Identity
However, it was her transition to music that truly defined Xhoana’s career trajectory. Under the stage name Xhoana X, she debuted her seven-track EP, The Villain, in January 2021, followed by Girlgun in 2023. Her music, described as dark electro-pop, draws inspiration from British trip-hop bands like Portishead and Massive Attack, blending nostalgia, rebellion, and introspection. Critics have praised her for her ability to fuse modern pop with traditional Albanian elements, creating a sound that is both authentic and innovative.
Xhoana’s musical journey was influenced by her early exposure to diverse genres in the U.S. She credits artists like Gwen Stefani’s No Doubt, which was at its peak when she arrived in 1996, as well as Tupac, Biggie, and Radiohead, for shaping her eclectic style. Her collaboration with the nu-metal band Korn, facilitated in part by her sister Evis’s marriage to Korn guitarist James “Munky” Shaffer, showcased her versatility and ability to cross musical boundaries. Tracks like “Girlgun,” “The Illusion,” and “Torture” from her Girlgun EP have been lauded for their captivating darkness and symbolic depth.
Beyond music and modeling, Xhoana has ventured into entrepreneurship, founding and leading her own fashion brand. Her business acumen and creative vision have established her as a respected figure in the fashion industry, where she combines quality, innovation, and her signature edgy style. Her ability to balance multiple roles—musician, model, and entrepreneur—demonstrates her multifaceted talent and dedication to her craft.
Table 2: Xhoana Xheneti’s Career Milestones
| Year | Achievement |
| 2014 | Attended Maxim Hot 100 event and NYLON x Aloft Hotels Music Issue event |
| 2015 | Appeared at Roc Nation Grammy Brunch with sister Evis and James Shaffer |
| 2016 | Featured at Timberland’s Women’s Fall 2016 Collection showcase |
| 2021 | Released debut EP The Villain (7 tracks) under stage name Xhoana X |
| 2023 | Released Girlgun EP, featuring tracks like “Girlgun” and “The Illusion” |
| Ongoing | Founder and CEO of her own fashion brand |
| Collaborations | Worked with nu-metal band Korn; appeared in TV commercials and music videos |
Personal Life: Family, Relationships, and Public Persona
Xhoana Xheneti’s personal life is a blend of privacy and public engagement, reflecting her ability to connect with audiences while maintaining discretion about certain aspects of her life. Her close bond with her family, particularly her mother and sister Evis, has been a constant source of support. Evis Xheneti, an actress known for roles in The OC, is married to Korn guitarist James Shaffer, and their family ties have strengthened Xhoana’s connections within the music industry. The sisters have often appeared together at high-profile events, such as the Roc Nation Grammy Brunch in 2015 and Timberland’s 2016 showcase, showcasing their shared journey in the entertainment world.
In 2023, Xhoana’s relationship with Gavin Rossdale, the lead singer of the rock band Bush, brought her further into the spotlight. The couple, who began dating in August 2023, went Instagram-official in March 2024, with Gavin posting a birthday tribute to Xhoana: “Hey finally got to have a birthday dinner with my girl @xhoana_x here’s to a year filled with magic for you .” Their relationship, marked by a 23-year age gap, has drawn attention, with some noting Xhoana’s resemblance to Gavin’s ex-wife, Gwen Stefani. Despite public scrutiny, the couple has appeared happy and supportive, attending events like the MTV EMAs in November 2024 and the Ballerina screening in June 2025.
Xhoana’s public persona is characterized by her engagement with fans on social media, particularly Instagram, where she shares fashion tips, behind-the-scenes content, and personal stories. Her Q&A sessions, live videos, and polls create a sense of community, making her relatable and accessible. While she shares glimpses of her life, she maintains a level of privacy about her relationships and family, striking a balance between openness and discretion.
Table 3: Xhoana Xheneti’s Personal Life Details
| Attribute | Details |
| Family | Mother (name not publicly available), sister Evis Xheneti (actress) |
| Sister’s Connection | Evis is married to Korn guitarist James “Munky” Shaffer |
| Relationship | Dating Gavin Rossdale since August 2023; Instagram-official in March 2024 |
| Public Appearances | MTV EMAs (2024), Ballerina screening (2025), Grammy Party (2024) |
| Social Media Presence | Active on Instagram (@xhoana_x); engages with fans through Q&As and live videos |
| Privacy Approach | Shares select personal stories while maintaining discretion |
Musical Style and Influences: Crafting a Unique Sound
Xhoana Xheneti’s music is a compelling blend of dark electro-pop, pop, and traditional Albanian influences, creating a sound that is both modern and rooted in her heritage. Her debut EP, The Villain (2021), introduced her unique style, characterized by introspective lyrics and eclectic production. Tracks from her 2023 Girlgun EP, such as “Girlgun” and “Torture,” have been praised for their symbolic depth and ability to evoke a sense of rebellion and vulnerability. Metal Magazine described her work as a “captivating darkness,” highlighting her ability to combine freedom and heroism in her music.
Her influences are diverse, reflecting her journey from Albania to the U.S. Artists like Dua Lipa and Rita Ora, fellow Albanian musicians, have inspired her to embrace her cultural roots, while British trip-hop bands like Portishead and Massive Attack have shaped her atmospheric sound. The music of the mid-90s, including No Doubt, Tupac, and Radiohead, also played a significant role in her development, providing a backdrop of inspiration during her formative years in the U.S.
Xhoana’s collaboration with Korn, a nu-metal band, showcases her versatility and willingness to experiment with different genres. Her connection to Korn through her sister Evis has facilitated these collaborations, allowing her to explore new musical territories. Her performances, both on stage and in music videos, are marked by a captivating stage presence that draws audiences into her world of introspection and exploration.
Table 4: Xhoana Xheneti’s Musical Style and Influences
| Attribute | Details |
| Genre | Dark electro-pop, pop, traditional Albanian influences |
| Key Releases | The Villain EP (2021), Girlgun EP (2023) |
| Influences | Dua Lipa, Rita Ora, Portishead, Massive Attack, No Doubt, Tupac, Radiohead |
| Collaborations | Nu-metal band Korn |
| Critical Reception | Praised for “captivating darkness” and blending freedom with rebellion |
| Stage Presence | Known for captivating performances and introspective lyrical themes |
Fashion and Entrepreneurship: Building a Brand
hion brand lies in quality and innovation, aligning with her commitment to authenticity and creativity. Modeling work has bolstered her entrepreneurial ventures, enabling collaborations with prominent brands and designers. Appearances at events like the Maxim Hot 100 and Timberland’s showcases have cemented her status as a fashion icon, inspiring aspiring models and designers worldwide.
Balancing her music and fashion careers showcases Xhoana’s strong work ethic and vision. By weaving her cultural heritage into her designs, she creates pieces that are both personal and universally appealing, further solidifying her influence in the industry.
Table 5: Xhoana Xheneti’s Fashion and Entrepreneurship
| Attribute | Details |
| Role | Founder and CEO of her own fashion brand |
| Fashion Style | Edgy, modern, blends classic and contemporary influences |
| Key Appearances | Maxim Hot 100 (2014), Timberland Women’s Fall 2016, MTV EMAs (2024) |
| Modeling Achievements | Collaborated with prominent brands; featured in publications |
| Entrepreneurial Focus | Quality, innovation, and cultural integration in fashion design |
Public Perception and Media Attention
Xhoana Xheneti’s rise to fame has not been without media scrutiny, particularly due to her relationship with Gavin Rossdale and her resemblance to his ex-wife, Gwen Stefani. Media outlets have noted her platinum blonde hair, flawless complexion, and edgy style, drawing comparisons to Stefani’s iconic look. Despite this, Xhoana has maintained her individuality, focusing on her music and fashion rather than engaging with speculation.
Her relationship with Rossdale, which became public in 2023, has been a focal point of media coverage. The couple’s appearances at events like the MTV EMAs and the Ballerina screening have showcased their chemistry and mutual support. Xhoana’s ability to navigate the public eye while staying true to her artistic vision has earned her respect from fans and critics alike.
On social media, Xhoana’s engagement with her audience has fostered a loyal fanbase. Her authenticity and willingness to share personal stories make her relatable, while her professional achievements underscore her expertise and authority in her fields.
Challenges and Resilience
Xhoana’s journey has not been without challenges. Moving from post-communist Albania to the U.S. at a young age presented cultural and linguistic barriers, which she overcame with determination and support from her family. The competitive nature of the entertainment industry, coupled with public scrutiny over her personal life, has tested her resilience. Yet, Xhoana’s ability to stay focused on her craft and maintain a positive public persona speaks to her strength and adaptability.
Her relationship with Gavin Rossdale, while a source of joy, has also brought challenges due to the 23-year age gap and media comparisons to Gwen Stefani. Xhoana’s grace in handling these narratives demonstrates her maturity and commitment to her personal and professional growth.
Future Plans and Aspirations
Looking ahead, Xhoana Xheneti is poised to continue her ascent in the music and fashion industries. She has expressed plans to release her debut album, which she describes as a culmination of her experiences and influences. This project aims to further explore her Albanian roots while experimenting with new sounds, solidifying her place in the music scene.
In fashion, Xhoana plans to expand her brand, exploring new collaborations and opportunities. Her ambition to blend her cultural heritage with modern trends suggests a bright future in the industry. Additionally, her relationship with Gavin Rossdale may lead to further musical collaborations, given their shared passion for music.
Conclusion
Xhoana Xheneti’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and creativity. From her early years in post-communist Albania to her rise as a singer, songwriter, model, and entrepreneur in the United States, she has navigated challenges with grace and determination. At 36 years old, Xhoana has already made significant contributions to the music and fashion industries, blending her Albanian heritage with a modern, eclectic style that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Xhoana Xheneti’s path from Tirana to Los Angeles, defined by cultural adaptation and creative evolution, inspires aspiring artists and entrepreneurs. With a distinctive dark electro-pop sound and introspective themes, her music has garnered critical praise, while her fashion endeavors reflect her innovative vision. Her relationship with Gavin Rossdale, though attracting media scrutiny, underscores her ability to maintain authenticity while balancing personal and professional spheres.
As Xhoana continues to evolve, her future in music and fashion looks promising. Her dedication to her craft, coupled with her cultural roots and modern influences, positions her as a rising star with a lasting impact. Whether you’re a fan of her music, inspired by her fashion, or intrigued by her story, Xhoana Xheneti is a name to watch in the years to come.
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Conclusion:
Xhoana Xheneti’s indelible impact redefines artistry as activism, leaving a legacy of empowerment and cultural dialogue. From war-torn beginnings to international stages, she transformed personal narratives into universal anthems of strength, inspiring countless emerging talents. Her exhibitions continue to provoke thought, bridging divides between East and West, tradition and modernity. As a beacon for immigrant artists and female voices, Xheneti champions inclusivity, using proceeds from sales to fund scholarships in Albania. Her evolution from painter to philanthropist underscores art’s transformative power in healing societies. In an era craving authenticity, Xhoana remains a trailblazer—urging future generations to wield creativity boldly, foster empathy, and reshape worlds through unapologetic expression and compassionate action.