For singer-songwriter Jacki Daniels, music has never been just a career path; it’s been a constant thread woven through her life. From childhood choir rooms to festival stages, her journey reflects a deep-rooted passion shaped by personal growth, collaboration and an unwavering desire to connect.

Daniels is a Michigan-based, Nashville recording artist known for her powerhouse vocals, magnetic stage presence and emotionally charged songwriting. Last year, she was awarded Rising Star of the Year at the Josie Music Awards, the world’s largest independent music awards show. She also received four Michigan Music Awards, along with the Vehicle City Sound Podcast Fan Favorite Award two years in a row. Her accolades are establishing her as one of pop-country’s most promising new voices.

The singer’s latest honor was being chosen to be an official showcasing performer during this year’s SXSW Music Festival. The show, which was resented by Austin Rhythm Revival, was held on March 18 at the BBQ restaurant, Lamberts. Two days before her performance at the Texas-based festival, Daniel generously took the time to sit down for an exclusive interview at the Omni Austin Hotel Downtown.

During the conversation, Daniels revealed that her musical story began early. “I’ve always been musically inclined,” she says, recalling her days playing violin in fourth grade and singing in choirs. Influenced by artists like Alanis Morissette, The Beatles and Bon Jovi, she developed an early fascination with storytelling through song. “I always wanted to be a singer,” she explained. That dream gradually evolved into songwriting and performing.

It wasn’t until college that Daniels took a pivotal step forward, joining her first band and beginning to write original music. Teaching herself guitar opened new creative doors, allowing her to translate ideas into fully formed songs. Since then, she’s remained committed to growth, continually refining her craft and deepening her connection to music.

The musician’s songwriting process is as organic as it is intuitive. Rather than adhering to a strict structure, Daniels often finds inspiration on the road. “I do a lot of my writing in the car,” she said. “I’ll hear a lyric or melody in my head and build a song mentally, then figure out the chords later.”

While the artist’s developed a more disciplined approach over time, many of her most meaningful songs arrive unexpectedly. “It feels like a gift,” she adds. “Like the song is given to me.”

That sense of authenticity carries into her lyrical themes, which are often rooted in personal experience and emotional honesty. Her debut single, ‘Yellow Roses,’ emerged from a difficult chapter in her life following a divorce.

Living alone and facing a moment of rock-bottom clarity, Daniels transformed her pain into a message of resilience. “It’s about turning struggles into something positive,” she said. The song’s universal message resonated widely with the public, and was eventually featured in the 2022 Hallmark Christmas movie, ‘Cupid’s Christmas.’

Beyond her own experiences, Daniels also draws inspiration from the lives of others. Songs like ‘Growing Pain’ reflect her instinct to support and uplift those around her. That perspective was shaped in part by her work as a licensed therapist. “Helping others is a major inspiration for me,” she explained. “I like to write songs with meaning.”

Musically, Daniels’ path has been anything but linear. Before finding her footing in country, she explored a wide range of genres, from progressive rock to electronic pop and even a cappella. Her musical versatility also spans rock, folk, musical theater, R&B, indie and classical.

It was the musician’s role as a backup singer in a country band that shifted her trajectory. The experience revealed a natural fit, allowing her to blend her love of pop and rock into a country framework. “I love all kinds of music,” she said. “Collaborating with different artists has really shaped my sound.”

Collaboration continues to play a central role in her work. Currently developing a collaborations album, Daniels embraces the unpredictability that comes with working alongside other musicians. “Every collaboration sounds different,” she says. “It expands creativity and keeps the music interesting.”

On stage, Daniels brings that same dynamic energy to life. Inspired by the glamor and showmanship of Dolly Parton, her performances are vibrant, interactive and deeply engaging. Whether performing intimate solo acoustic sets or full-band, high-energy shows, she blends genres and infuses bold creativity into every stage appearance. “Even if there are only a few people, I treat them like super fans,” she says.

That connection is a two-way street. Daniels thrives on audience energy, often adjusting her performance in real time. She often adds solos, changes vocal delivery or even rewrites lyrics on the spot. “A great crowd elevates everything,” she says. “It can be a game changer.”

Recently, Daniels reached the major milestone of performing and connecting with her fans as an official artist at SXSW. “It’s been a dream come true,” she said.

Surrounded by artists from around the world, the musicians found both inspiration and opportunity. The experience has fueled her ambition to expand her reach globally, connecting with new audiences and collaborators.

When she’s not traveling for performances, Daniels calls Michigan home. She shared that her home state has a “strong and supportive” music scene.

Meanwhile, cities like Austin also offer a contrasting energy, especially during SXSW, where genre diversity and artistic discovery take center stage. “Each place has something unique to offer,” the artist noted.

Looking ahead, Daniels is focused on promoting her latest single, ‘If I Die Tomorrow.’ The deeply personal track born from a mysterious and emotional experience. Written on a day that later revealed a connection to personal loss, the tune ultimately carries a message of presence and gratitude. “It’s about living fully in the moment,” she says.

In addition to her solo work, Daniels also continues to tour nationally with the Ultimate Kenny Rogers Tribute Show, performs in showcases like Singers in the Round and hosts her own platform, The Jacki Daniels Show. While she values the opportunity to travel and perform in iconic venues, her original music remains at the heart of her journey.

“I love both,” the performer said of collaboration and solo work. “But creating and performing my own music is what means the most.”

With a voice shaped by experience, awards marking her rising influence and a mission rooted in connection, Daniels is carving out a space where music doesn’t just entertain – it heals, uplifts and endures.

For more information on Daniels, visit her official website, as well as her Instagram, Facebook, Spotify and Apple Music pages.