FROM a childhood inspired by musical divas to a powerful stand on a global stage, Austrian singer-songwriter Jaqlyn is carving out a vibrant new space in contemporary music.
Her journey — one defined by raw talent, a significant shift in faith, and the courage to express her authentic self — culminates in the release of her powerful debut single, ‘This Is Who I Am’.
Born in Graz, Jaqlyn’s earliest memories are steeped in music, drawing inspiration from her Georgian mother and grandmother. Like many rising stars, she grew up nurturing her voice by singing along to the sweeping ballads of vocal icons like Céline Dion and Lara Fabian.
Her passion for performance soon propelled her from acting and sports into the dedicated pursuit of her musical dreams. The moment that cemented her emergence came in September 2024 on ‘The Voice of Germany’.
Her breathtaking audition of George Benson’s ‘Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You’ earned unanimous acclaim from all four celebrity judges. That single performance has since attracted over four million views on YouTube, validating her presence as a remarkable new voice ready for the world stage.
The biggest shift in Jaqlyn’s personal journey, however, came off-stage. In January 2023, she embraced Islam, a decision she describes as transformative for both her life and her art.
Her faith now plays a central and empowering role in her creative vision, offering a platform for expression that is both vulnerable and strong. The 23-year-old artiste firmly reflects on how her faith informs her bold approach to music.
“Wearing the hijab didn’t stop me from being bold or creative. If anything, it empowers me to be a leader and a positive influence,” she said.
That journey of self-acceptance and resilience is poured directly into her debut single, ‘This Is Who I Am’.
Co-written with multi-platinum recording artiste Maher Zain, the song is a soaring anthem of identity, faith, and self-acceptance. It takes listeners on an emotional journey, moving from opening lines of vulnerability into an unforgettable declaration of pride delivered in the chorus: “Here I stand… This is who I am”.
For Jaqlyn, whose real name is Jacqueline Haider, this track is the perfect vessel to introduce herself and her message.
“Recording ‘This Is Who I Am’ felt natural and effortless — it poured straight from my heart. I feel privileged to share my faith and values through music, and I hope this song empowers others to embrace their true selves,” she said.
The single showcases her dynamic vocal ability and emotional depth, offering an inspiring and fresh perspective in contemporary faith-inspired music.
Jaqlyn has now officially begun her professional journey by signing with Awakening Music, becoming the label’s first-ever female artiste. The label is excited to partner with the singer.
Awakening Music Co-Founder and Director Bara Kherigi commented on the signing: “We are delighted to welcome Jaqlyn to Awakening Music. Her message and artistry celebrate the creativity, strength, and representation of women in Islamic music, and we are honoured to walk this path alongside her.”
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
