Raised in the city of Selkirk, Manitoba, Ellen Reid studied classical piano for 11 years while at the Royal Conservatory of Music, as well as in high school. Also having a soft spot for the saxophone, Reid met up with other musicians, including Brad Roberts, to form what would become Crash Test Dummies in 1986. Having achieved great success with the group in sales and popularity, the singer rarely had the opportunity to show her vocal abilities. The only exceptions were her lead vocals on XTC's song "The Ballad of Peter Pumpkinhead," which was one of the band's bigger hits. In 1999, Crash Test Dummies took an extended hiatus, and Reid continued concentrating on a solo effort. In 2000, she returned to the studio and released her debut solo record, Cinderellen, on Mr. Friendly Productions. She continues to perform across Canada and at various industry showcases. ~ Jason MacNeil