Hayla

Hayla is a Grammy-nominated British singer and songwriter from Liverpool who has become one of the most in-demand vocalists in global dance music.

Who is Hayla and why her journey from Liverpool to global stardom inspires singers

In the vibrant world of electronic dance music, few voices have resonated as powerfully as Hayla. This Grammy-nominated British singer and songwriter from Liverpool has emerged as one of the most sought-after vocalists in global dance music. Her journey from teaching private singing lessons and performing in local bands to sharing stages with deadmau5, Kaskade and John Summit serves as a powerful example for anyone aspiring to make their mark in the music industry.

Hayla, whose real name is Hayley Williams, began her musical path singing in different bands around her native Liverpool. She spent years honing her craft, teaching private singing lessons full-time while pursuing opportunities in music. Her early releases included feature appearances on tracks like Lights Out by DJ Katch and I Need by Wilkinson throughout the late 2010s. Yet it was her featured spot on the yearning 2022 house hit Escape by Kx5, the collaborative project of deadmau5 and Kaskade, that proved to be her breakthrough moment.

The success of Hayla continued to grow through hit collaborations with major artists across the electronic music spectrum. She achieved back-to-back number one hits on US Dance Radio, first with Escape by Kx5 and second with the platinum single Where You Are, her collaboration with John Summit. She also worked with Kygo on Without You, MEDUZA on Another World and ILLENIUM, each track showcasing her powerful, earnest delivery. Across 2022 and 2023, she established herself as a defining voice of modern vocal-driven electronic music.

How Hayla is reshaping the role of featured vocalists in electronic music

Beyond her chart success, Hayla is actively reshaping the perception of what it means to be a featured vocalist in electronic music. She is far more than a headline DJ accompanying singer. On top of the extreme power of her voice, she is a songwriter who co-writes all of her major vocal collaborations. She is also adding producer to her resume, experimenting with making music from scratch and asserting her identity as a complete artist in her own right.

Hayla demonstrated her depth as a multi-faceted artist with the release of her debut solo album DUSK in November 2024. The album, which was influenced by a breakup and early-pandemic isolation, showcased an intuitive palette of haunting vocal-driven electronica. This project proved she is far more than just a featured vocalist, establishing her as a solo artist with a distinct vision. In July 2026, she followed up with her sophomore studio album DARK, marking a new artistic phase in her career.

The influence of Hayla extends beyond her own releases to the broader landscape of dance music. Her work with producers like John Summit, ILLENIUM and deadmau5 has helped shape modern electronic music in the past few years. She primarily works in vocal-driven electronic music with elements of house, progressive house, future bass and ambient electronic production. For aspiring singers and songwriters, her path demonstrates that authenticity, versatility and persistence can lead to extraordinary opportunities.

Experience the power of Hayla live performances and vocal artistry

To truly appreciate the talent of Hayla, one must experience her live performances. She has taken the stage at some of the world most iconic venues and festivals, from the Hollywood Bowl with deadmau5 to closing out Coachella. Her 2026 performance at EDC Las Vegas on the Kinetic Field Stage showcased her ability to command massive crowds with her majestic, powerful voice. These live appearances demonstrate that she is not just a studio vocalist but a dynamic performer who connects deeply with audiences.

Fans who have seen Hayla perform often describe the experience as transformative. Her powerful delivery guides pulsing dance tracks, creating moments of emotional intensity that resonate long after the music ends. Whether performing her own material or filling the role of an in-demand guest, she brings an earnestness and authenticity that elevates every track. Her stage presence combines technical vocal prowess with genuine emotional connection, making each performance a memorable event.

The demand for Hayla live appearances continues to grow, with bookings at premier festivals and clubs around the world. Her ability to deliver both her solo material and her high-profile collaborations makes her a versatile and compelling live act. For those who have not yet experienced a Hayla performance, it remains a bucket-list opportunity for any fan of vocal-driven electronic music. The combination of world-class vocals, emotional depth and undeniable stage presence makes every show a celebration of the power of song.

Start your own journey into singing and songwriting for dance music today

The story of Hayla offers a compelling invitation to anyone passionate about music, singing or songwriting. You do not need to start with a major label deal or a viral hit to begin creating. Her path began with singing in local bands and teaching lessons, building skills and experience over years of dedicated work. The key is to start creating, to embrace the learning process and to remain true to your artistic voice. Whether you dream of performing at major festivals or simply want to express yourself through song, the journey begins with a single step.

Take inspiration from the diverse career Hayla has forged. She moved seamlessly between solo work and collaborations, always maintaining her identity while adapting to different producers and styles. She also expanded from singing into songwriting and production, demonstrating that artists can continually evolve and grow. For aspiring vocalists, her example shows that versatility, authenticity and a commitment to craft are essential traits for long-term success in the competitive world of music.

Let the work of Hayla be your guide as you navigate the world of singing and songwriting for dance music. Her career demonstrates that with persistence, talent and a focus on quality, you can create a lasting presence in the industry. The music landscape is vast and full of opportunity, with room for new voices and fresh perspectives. Whether you want to release solo albums, collaborate with producers or perform live, the time to start is now. Open your microphone, write your first song and begin building your own story. The next great vocalist is waiting to emerge.