28 August 2026
From Melbourne to the stages of London’s All Points East, Jael’s rise over the past few months has been nothing short of impressive. Having released her brilliant debut EP Mama Says earlier this month as a new signee of Capitol Records, the Australian newcomer brings a rare level of poise and maturity to modern R&B and soul. Free, unrestricted, and unapologetically honest, she is a complete breath of fresh air, an exciting talent who very much defines the ‘rising star’ term.
Jael’s sound is rooted in sincerity, with her soothing yet powerful tone emulating the finest of red wines, nestled in beautifully amongst her eclectic and soulful productional offerings. “I want my music to feel honest and unrestricted, and I think emotion is always at the centre of what I do. Whether the song is vulnerable, uplifting or somewhere in between, I want people to be able to feel something when they listen.”
That perspective was partially cultivated back home in Australia, where her surrounding community played a significant role in forming her outlook. “The local connections I made growing up had a big impact on me. Seeing how close people can become within a community taught me a lot about connection and relationships, which I think naturally comes through in my music. Being surrounded by different people, personalities and experiences has definitely helped shape the way I see things and the stories I want to tell.”
Though it’s not just the local connections who provide such inspiration. Influenced by the likes of Michael Jackson – whose “emotion, performance and individuality” left a lasting impression – and Guy Sebastian, who’s “voice and soulfulness” stirred her “love of strong vocals and music that really makes you feel something”, Jael absorbed the art from early on, yet maintains a distinct identity for her own sound.
“As an artist, you want people to connect with who you actually are rather than trying to become a version of somebody else”, she explains. “Having your own character, personality and point of view is what makes you unique. At the same time, it’s completely okay to draw inspiration from your favourite artists… It’s about taking that inspiration and finding a way to turn it into something that feels true to you.”
And there’s a beautiful commitment to authenticity and honesty in her debut EP, Mama Says, an introspective expression of narrative with flickers of family truths and confessions. A lot of the situations and emotions I talk about throughout the project are things my mum and I would have spoken about while I was growing up,” Jael shares. “It felt like there was this thread of advice, lessons, relationships and growing up running through all of the songs, so Mama Says felt like the perfect title to bring everything together.”
In a time where songwriting has arguably become more commercialised – perhaps sped up and rushed in favour of algorithmic success – Jael does not cave into any industry pressures, with her songwriting carefully procured and never forced. “There have definitely been times when I’ve stopped writing a song halfway through because I’ve felt like it wasn’t the right time to complete it,” she admits. “I might come back to it months later and suddenly know exactly what I want to say. Sometimes you need to experience or understand something a little more before you’re ready to put it into a song.”
This patience pays off in moments of striking lyrical clarity. On the standout track ‘DUI’, written alongside acclaimed producer and songwriter Eg White, Jael delivers one of the EP’s most memorable lines: “Cool at 15 looks cheap at 24.” It’s a sharp observation on growing up and outgrowing former habits. “My mindset at the time was really about growing up and realising that your perspective changes as you get older,” she explains. “There are certain actions or behaviours that might seem acceptable, funny or even ‘cool’ when you’re younger, but as you mature, you start looking at those same situations very differently… It’s about recognising your own growth, knowing yourself better and understanding that maturing sometimes means leaving certain behaviours, situations or people behind.”
Where ‘DUI’ looks outward at changing dynamics, the title track ‘Mama Says’ turns inward. Stripped back and deeply poignant, the song leans on generational wisdom and faith. “The biggest piece of advice my mum has given me is, ‘Put God first and He’ll always make a way,’” Jael says. “Faith is a big priority in my life. It reminds me that I don’t have to have control over absolutely everything or have every answer straight away. Sometimes it’s okay to let go of the things you can’t control… I can give those worries to God, trust that there’s a bigger plan and keep moving forward.”
With her debut EP out now in the world, and having made her debut at London’s All Points East last weekend marking a major milestone in her live career, Jael’s trajectory is only pointing upward. “I’m excited to keep releasing, performing and showing people more of who I as an artist. Everyone will just have to keep an eye out for what’s coming next.”
And that, we shall most definitely do. Jael is an undeniable star, and one you should get on your radar if you haven’t already.