Courtney Hadwin is entering a bold new chapter of her music career. The powerhouse vocalist and former America’s Got Talent finalist is gearing up to release her new single “D.N.A” and upcoming debut album “Little Miss Jagged” and she’s making one thing clear: she’s not that shy 13-year-old anymore.
From the moment she first stepped onto the AGT stage, Hadwin’s unmistakable voice and electrifying energy set her apart. But her passion for music started long before the world took notice. “I’ve always loved singing from a very early age,” she reflected. “By the time I was 10 or 11, I just knew music had to be part of my life.”
Hadwin poured herself into her craft, choosing late-night rehearsals over after-school playtime. Inspired by the raw showmanship of icons like Little Richard, Tina Turner, and James Brown, she found her sound through YouTube rabbit holes and hours of practice. That fusion of grit, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll would later become her trademark on AGT.
Her decision to audition for America’s Got Talent was driven by a belief that American audiences would better connect with her unfiltered style. “I knew people in America would understand me and my music more than countries used to ‘bubblegum pop,’” she said. The risk paid off: not only did she gain global recognition, but she also discovered a fiercely loyal fan base that continues to follow her journey.
Life after AGT, however, has been both empowering and challenging. Now nearing 21, Hadwin is determined to shed the “child star” label. “It’s hard to show the world that I’m not just that shy 13-year-old anymore,” she admitted. “I’m a grown woman with big feelings and I’m more than just a one-trick pony.”
Her post-AGT music has been deeply personal. Songs like “Die and Stay Pretty” allowed her to tap into vulnerable territory, writing lyrics that reflect real emotional experiences. That raw honesty continues with her upcoming album Little Miss Jagged, which she describes as “rough around the edges” and proudly unconventional. “It doesn’t fit in one column. You’ll either hate it or love it but it’s completely me.”
Her new single “D.N.A” leans into this sense of fun and freedom. A vibrant track filled with wit and an infectious beat, it explores the intense, often irrational feelings that come with infatuation but with a twist of cheeky humor. It’s an anthem that captures both Hadwin’s emotional depth and her playful defiance.
Watch the video below.
With Little Miss Jagged slated for release in September, fans can also look forward to seeing Hadwin on stage once again. Tour dates are already in the works, with three shows confirmed in the UK that month. “There’s literally no one stopping me when that happens,” she promised. “I just can’t wait to hit the road and perform this album live.”
For Hadwin, this is more than a comeback. It’s a reinvention on her own terms
