Meet Jaydn Elle: the quadruple threat shaking up South Africa's music scene with fearless flair

IOL News

08-07-2025

Jaydn Elle aims to leave a legacy that uplifts and empowers.
Image: Supplied
At just 18 years old, Jaydn Elle is carving her own path in the entertainment world with an energy that's both bold and independent.
Known as a quadruple threat, this dynamic young talent from Johannesburg is not merely accumulating accolades - she is redefining the landscape of singing, acting, dancing and modelling.
Elle's lifelong passion for music began at the tender age of five or six, ignited by a childhood viewing of Beauty and the Beast that sparked her profound love for the performing arts.
'Theatre is my first love,' she reflected.
Her impressive music career began in 2018 when she secured the lead role in 'Annie JR" at Johannesburg's People's Theatre.
This pivotal moment sparked a passion for singing that has only intensified over the years.
The year 2020 saw her rise to prominence in modelling when she was awarded the Public Choice Award and made it to the finals of the International Junior Miss South Africa pageant. However, her artistic pursuits didn't stop there.
In 2021, she released her debut single 'Nasty', a touching reflection on bullying during the pandemic.
Following that, her collaboration on 'Superwoman' with songwriter Warrick Wallace and MPJ became a viral sensation, amassing over 4.7 million streams.
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Jaydn Elle's 'Dancin Wit U' demonstrates her evolution as an artist.
Image: Supplied
Her latest single, 'Dancin Wit U', further demonstrates her evolution as an artist. This upbeat track is a vibrant fusion of '70s disco and contemporary pop, designed to get listeners on their feet and hearts racing.
Inspired by her daydreams of an idyllic first date, Elle described it as a song rooted in nostalgia and joy.
'At the time, I hadn't been on a real first date,' she recalled. 'But I would watch enough rom-coms, like 'To All the Boys I've Loved Before' and 'The Kissing Booth', to know the kind of butterflies I wanted to feel.' Her infectious energy and style shine through as she expressed the warmth of human connection.
Originally recorded in 2021, the song found new life through her partnership with Virgin Music, allowing Elle to refine and elevate it for her ever-evolving artistry.
'Songs don't have expiration dates,' she asserted. 'This one needed to come out now - and I'm so glad I waited.'
'I've never been a one-genre artist,' she explained. 'This song sets the tone for where I'm headed - playful, emotional and full of surprises.'
Jaydn Elle aims to leave a legacy that uplifts and empowers.
Image: Supplied
The artist credits Rihanna's 'Only Girl (In The World)' as the catalyst for her musical aspirations. 'The song made me feel special, and I was obsessed with the music video,' Elle reminisced, pointing to the powerful imagery and emotion that inspired her young heart.
Despite growing up in a family entrenched in sports, where music was often relegated to background noise on car rides, Elle forged her own path, allowing her creativity to flourish within a rich tapestry of South African musical influences.
'In South Africa, you can't avoid rhythm,' she said, referencing the diverse sounds that have shaped her music - from vibrant street beats to church choirs and festive family gatherings.
Elle described her sound as a mix of disco-pop infused with soul: 'Think sparkly synths, funky bass and vocals that tell stories about love, freedom and self-expression. It's the kind of music you can dance to in your bedroom mirror.'
Creating her music is an organic process for Elle, often sparked by melodies that materialise when she least expects them, like during study sessions.
'I'll sit down with my phone's voice notes to start building chords,' she revealed. While she sometimes collaborates with local producers, much of her work is a solo journey of experimentation and self-discovery.
Drawing heavily from personal experience, Elle's songwriting encapsulates the essence of her feelings and dreams.
One of the most transformative moments in her burgeoning career was filming the first season of 'Reyka', a landmark opportunity that propelled her further into the spotlight. However, the journey hasn't been without its hurdles.
Elle acknowledged that self-doubt sometimes creeps in, wondering if anyone will connect with her music. Yet, she finds reassurance in conversations with friends and the knowledge that her story matters.
If she could rewind time and offer herself advice at the start of her journey, it would be simple: 'Stop overthinking. Trust your instincts more.' For Elle, the key to success lies in the act of creation without waiting for the perfect moment to unveil oneself to the world.
With aspirations of working alongside like-minded artists, Elle lists British singer Jorja Smith as her dream collaborator. 'Her music is so good, and I love her unique sound,' she said.
As she looks to the future, Elle is brimming with ideas for her next major project - a secret concept album rooted in a coming-of-age story meant to resonate with queer youth growing up in Johannesburg.
'I want to create a musical movie soundtrack that tells their stories,' she divulges, hinting at her desire to impact lives through her art.
Ultimately, Elle aims to leave a legacy that uplifts and empowers. 'I want people to feel seen and celebrated, especially girls of colour and anyone who feels like they don't fit into society's boxes,' she stated.
Her music is designed to remind listeners that their joy, love and dreams are all worthy of pursuit - a message that echoes through each note she sings.
'Even if it's just a fantasy, even if it's just for a moment - that spark of joy is worth holding onto,' she concluded.