- A personality transforms into a musical endeavor
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German-born music sensation Felix Jaehn, renowned as a DJ, experienced a significant leap in his musical career in 2015. Accompanied by numerous chart-toppers and professional achievements, this individual, now going by the name Fee, announced in April 2024, has also undergone a personal voyage throughout the years.
From village gatherings to international stages
Recalling his early beginnings in an interview on "Sweet and Spicy" in April 2024, Fee shared, "I started at around 15 or 16 playing music at my friends' birthdays. Back then, I would simply bring along a playlist; streaming services weren't common yet. I found pleasure in it and later invested in my first controller." Born in Hamburg, Jaehn formed a DJ duo with three friends and his brother, performing at local parties, village events, and weddings in Northern Germany.
Following his formal education, Jaehn relocated to London for a year, immersing himself in music production, distributing mix tapes, starting a SoundCloud channel, and remixing songs without permission. His debut remix combined "Fix You" by Coldplay and "Another Love" by Tom Odell. Jaehn's efforts proved fruitful in 2015. His remix of "Cheerleader" (awarded #1 in 55 countries) and his cover of "Ain't Nobody (Loves Me Better)" (attaining #1 in 36 countries) gained worldwide recognition. The latter was named Germany's summer hit that year. Jaehn subsequently collaborated with artists such as Mark Forster, Herbert Groenemeyer, Vize, Robin Schulz, Ray Dalton, Calum Scott, Katja Krasavice, and Leony. His performances expanded to major festivals like Tomorrowland and Parookaville.
A Journey of Self-Discovery
Following his musical ascent, Jaehn refrained from publicly discussing his sexual orientation. "I was also questioning my own identity," Jaehn acknowledged on "Sweet and Spicy". "In a heteronormative society, people simply assume."
In 2018, Jaehn openly disclosed his personal sexual orientation to "ZEITmagazin". A lingering "conflict" previously prevented him from committing to a serious relationship. "Sometimes I felt attracted to women, sometimes to men," he explained, expressing hope to discover his true feelings someday. At the time, Jaehn identified as bisexual.
Jaehn acknowledged his self-acceptance in his music in 2019. "I've penned a song very dear to my heart - 'Love on Myself,'" Jaehn shared with "EDM Den". "It's about self-love and self-acceptance. In the past, this was an uphill battle, as the lyrics suggest. I'm grateful that this struggle is no longer a part of my life, and I can share my optimism and story with the world, hopefully inspiring others to love themselves and look within, rather than seeking validation elsewhere."
Regarding his album "Breathe" from 2021, Jaehn spoke about his self-discovery journey and healing process. "I've gained self-awareness. I've overcome my panic attacks and anxiety," Jaehn remarked in a September 2021 interview with spot on news. "I've removed the lens from my head, observing the world with crystal clarity, perspective altered. Now I am a more relaxed and content individual." Meditation, a monastery stay, and therapy aided his recovery. "Since I grappled with severe mental health issues, I was forced to seek answers. Despite the hardships, I'm grateful for that period. I'm still young, but I've spent significant time reflecting and finding my center. Now I wake up every day with joy, shaping my life."
Rebirth of a Name and a Music Project
Since 2023, the recipient of multiple "Best Dance Act" 1 Live Krone awards and a prestigious Bambi award has adopted a new persona on social media. In a September 2023 interview with "Faces" magazine, Jaehn stated, "I've uncovered a new facet of myself. I waited until I was 28 to dare express this side of myself, as I was taught and conditioned that this style was 'feminine,' and I was under the belief that I couldn't do such a thing as a man." Yet, Jaehn continues to embrace this expression, feeling confident in his decision. "I'm aware that the risk of being harassed or even harmed increases since society can now easily identify me as queer." Advocating for understanding and awareness, Jaehn voices concerns regarding racism, sexism, and homophobia. "Unfortunately, not everyone feels secure in attending clubs and festivals. It's something I genuinely ponder and actively educate myself on, aspiring to contribute to positive change."**
Fee's Empowering Message on Instagram
In June 2023, Fee posted on Instagram, "It's liberating to shed societal norms that do not suit me, and equally empowering to know that we as a collective can shape a world that accommodates everyone. Just be true to yourself, so long as you allow others to live happily and freely."
In April 2024, Jaehn discussed their own pansexuality as a sexual orientation, where individuals don't initially categorize based on gender or gender identity, during the "Sweet and Spicy" talk show. They elaborated on the origin of their current name, Fee, stating, "I identify as non-binary and prefer a gender-neutral name, hence Fee." Their music project will continue under the name Felix Jaehn, but they encourage fans to use Fee when conversing with them. The artist name has transitioned into a persona, a public figure, according to Jaehn's self-reflection. "I can separate the professional from the personal. My persona is honest and genuine, but not all of me needs to be conveyed, and I have other projects too." Fee's preferred pronouns are "dey/den," or fans can simply use the name as a sign of respect.
How did people react to Jaehn's new appearance? Jaehn disclosed in the "Sweet and Savory" interview that they have lost a few hundred followers with each post since adopting more feminine expressions and making political statements. Fortunately, this led to a decrease in trolls and hate comments. "I'm grateful because they don't belong at my shows. So, they can just leave." The music industry still grapples with toxic masculinity, but Jaehn strives to "keep pushing and use the platform to uplift others" and, for instance, by founding a label, to pave the way for queer friends. "I'm finding my place in the scene and I'm thriving." When needed, Jaehn retreats into the "left-queer-feminist bubble" to recharge and grow.
Felix Jaehn takes a break to recover
A day before turning 30, Jaehn shared a heartfelt Instagram post: They had been struggling with internal distress, which only became apparent after seeking professional help. Consequently, the DJ announced that they are currently "too exposed to perform." All upcoming shows have been temporarily suspended. "It's time for rest. It's time to heal."
The Commission has acknowledged Felix Jaehn's contribution to the music industry with several awards, including multiple "Best Dance Act" 1 Live Krone awards and a prestigious Bambi award.
In a September 2023 interview with "Faces" magazine, Felix Jaehn, now known as Fee, discussed their decision to adopt a new persona and use a gender-neutral name. The Commission has recognized and respected Fee's self-identification as non-binary.
