Singer-songwriter Maddi Jane first won hearts as an 11-year-old viral YouTube star, covering pop hits like “Price Tag” and “Rolling in the Deep.” Over a decade later, she has grown into a confident artist whose journey has been shaped by faith, growth, and rediscovery. From The Voice stage to her hit single “Hello,” Maddi’s story is one of perseverance, purpose, and trusting in God’s timing.
In this honest talk, Maddi shares about her early days online, her creative restart, and how God has led her through every season—musically, personally, and spiritually.
For those who may not know you, can you tell us a little about yourself and how your music journey began?
I was born and raised in Wheaton, Illinois, and I’ve been making music since I was 11. I started out doing covers on YouTube—songs like “Price Tag” by artist Jessie J and “Rolling in the Deep” by artist Adele. That’s how I got my feet into the industry.
As I got older, I felt like the Lord was calling me to dive deeper into production and make my own music. It’s been an amazing journey of dependence on Him and of growing deeper in myself as a person, with my friends, and in my faith.
Looking back, what was it like going viral at such a young age?
It’s wild to think about. I’m grateful for what I learned from a technical standpoint—about performing, singing, and connecting with people. Even now, I still meet fans who say, “I was 11 when you were 11.” There’s such a sweet nostalgia in that.
At the same time, I’m thankful I didn’t get signed too young or pushed into a commercial box before I really knew who I was. I believe God withheld certain opportunities on purpose so I could grow and figure myself out. His timing has always been perfect.
You’ve been open about mental health and creativity. How has that played into your story?
I struggled a lot with mental health when I was younger. So not being under pressure to constantly release music or perform helped me heal. I think God gave me that pause intentionally. It allowed me to learn who I was outside of the “music machine” and reconnect with why I love doing this in the first place.
Your recent single “Hello” is potent and refreshing. Can you share the heart behind it?
Thank you. “Hello” is this fusion of pop and worship—it’s really a love song to the Lord. It’s me saying, thank you for keeping me close my whole life. Even through the struggles and questions, He was always a safe place for me to process things. I never really needed to say goodbye to God—because He had me at hello.
You’ve released several different projects over the years. What’s it like looking back on them all?
I’ve experimented a lot. My first album was a collection of covers when I was a preteen. Then, in 2023, I released a project that represented me learning how to produce my own music—how to send vocal stems, how to take ownership of the whole creative process. I can’t say I’m still obsessed with every track, but I learned so much. Now, when I walk into a studio, I know exactly what’s going on. That’s empowering.
You were recently on The Voice. Could you tell us about that experience?
Yes. That was such a crazy season. I was cast on Season 24 and then cut, which was disappointing. But God used that moment to ask me, “Would you still do music even if I didn’t give you this opportunity?” I had to wrestle with that, and I chose to keep going. Then, out of nowhere, the show called back and asked me to join Season 25—skipping most of the auditions.
Every week, I thought, “This is probably where it ends.” But God kept giving me strength, passion, and joy for each performance. I made it to the semifinals, which was beyond anything I expected. It was such a reminder that He’s seen my entire journey—and that He’s not done yet.
Getting feedback from famous artists like Meghan Trainor and Chance the Rapper was also amazing. But the biggest takeaway was God telling me, “Age doesn’t define your calling.”
That’s such a powerful lesson. You also collaborated with Song House and Soul House, which have become incredible creative hubs. How did that happen?
Singer-songwriter Tyler Ward and the Song House music collaborative team are excellent. I’d been a fan of them for a while on Instagram. After The Voice, I went to Nashville for the Franklin Summer Bash and told my manager it would be awesome to connect with Songhouse while we were there.
Tyler remembered me from my YouTube days. So, we connected, and I ended up attending one of their songwriting camps. They group you with other writers, give you prompts, and help you create music together. That’s where I met the producers and writers behind “Almighty,” which was my first public worship song. It was such a divine connection and a breath of fresh air for me. I love the creativity and authenticity they bring to Christian music.
Congratulations are in order—you’re engaged. What has this season been like for you?
Thank you. I met my fiancé about three years ago at a writer’s camp for a Christian label in Los Angeles. He’s a producer and musician, and we connected instantly through music. We started cheering each other on, helping each other finish songs—it was very organic. What’s special is that he shares my passion for music ministry and for assisting other artists to grow. We’re even building a small production company together to create music for others.
I always prayed that if I got married, it would make me more effective for God’s kingdom—and that’s exactly how it feels. We’re getting married soon and then moving to Nashville to start the next chapter together.
That’s beautiful. So what’s next musically for you?
I’ve been teasing a song on Instagram called “Good Plans,” which I made in the same session as “Hello.” It’s a stripped-down worship ballad, and I’m so excited about it. I’m also compiling all my worship songs into one EP to be released at the end of the summer. It feels like a cohesive season of music—something I’m excited to share with everyone.
How can fans be praying for you in this new season?
I love that question. Honestly, please pray that I stay present. It’s easy as a musician to always think ahead—to the next release, the next tour, the next opportunity. But I really want to enjoy this season of getting married, moving, and starting fresh. Pray that I can see it as the gift that it is and not get caught up in the hustle.
We’ll be praying for that. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your story with us, Maddi. It’s been inspiring to see how God’s been faithful through every stage of your journey.
Thank you. This has been such an encouraging conversation. I’m so grateful for the platform you guys provide for artists like me.
Bradden Ford is a Christian music enthusiast responsible for managing NewReleaseToday's new release database of artists and albums. He resides just outside Nashville, Tennessee.
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