Keke Palmer was born as Lauren Keyana Palmer in Robbins, Illinois. Her father works for a polyurethane company, and her mother, Sharon, is an elementary school teacher who works with children with mental disabilities. Keke has three siblings, including an older sister, who gave her the nickname "Keke". She began singing in her church's choir at the age of five, and she auditioned for a stage production of The Lion King at the age of nine. Although she did not win the role, she fell in love with the process and business. Her family moved to Los Angeles in 2004 so Palmer could pursue a screen career.