Lana Del Rey: I'm the real deal

Lana Del Rey insists she's "had a life" and doesn't need to "create" a persona.

The American singer-songwriter has enjoyed huge success this year following the release of her album Born to Die. Lana's vocal skills and vintage sense of style has won her fans all over the world, and she has a clear sense of direction.

Many outsiders have compared her to Nancy Sinatra and Lana once described herself as a "gansta" version of the legendary singer, but Lana now insists she isn't a pre-packaged pop act.

"I've had a life. I don't need to create a person to live through," she told Vanity Fair.

The 26-year-old star – real name Lizzy Grant – was born in New York City and sent to a boarding school when she was 14 to deal with her alcohol dependence.

Lana is lauded for her tough-hitting lyrics and breathy vocals.

The star always loved writing and realised songs were the perfect way to tell her story.

"I wanted to be a writer, to be involved, but I didn't know how," she explained. "I was looking for answers. I love making music. The rest I don't really think about."

Lana is re-releasing Born to Die with eight new songs as the Paradise Edition.