Vienna, Austria – Jael Wernert isn’t your typical athlete, nor is she your typical musician. The 19-year-old from Korneuburg seamlessly blends a demanding schedule as a competitive judoka with her role as the drummer and backing vocalist for the Austrian punk rock band Black SunZet. But beyond the impressive dual commitment lies a powerful message of equality and a refusal to accept the status quo, a message that resonated deeply with audiences and judges alike when the band won the 2026 FM4 Protestsongcontest.
“Knowing that a woman dies every ten minutes simply for being a woman, that violence against women is normalized, and that in 2026 there is still no equality, that makes us angry,” Wernert explained, as translated from the original German source. That anger fuels Black SunZet’s music, a potent blend of energy and social commentary aimed at encouraging self-advocacy and claiming space.
From the Judo Mat to the Drum Kit
Wernert’s dedication to both disciplines is remarkable. Currently a student at the University of Vienna, she has been playing the drums since childhood and simultaneously pursuing judo at a high level. She’s a member of the U21 national judo squad, with a resume boasting a medal at the European Youth Olympic Festivals, a U18 European Championship medal, and a seventh-place finish at the U18 World Championships. Her success, she says, is rooted in discipline and perseverance – qualities honed through years of rigorous training and overcoming two significant knee injuries.
“For me, judo and music proceed hand in hand. They are like my left and right leg,” Wernert stated. “While I fight for myself on the judo mat, I stand on the stage with my band to fight for equality.” This duality isn’t a coincidence. it’s a deliberate intersection of personal empowerment and collective action.
“My Body, My Choice”: A Song Born from Witnessing Inaction
Black SunZet, comprised of Wernert, Johanna Wimazal, and Selma Rainer, formed three years ago with a clear mission: to create loud, powerful music that addresses societal issues. Their breakthrough came with “My Body, My Choice,” a song that became an anthem against violence and a call for respect. The song’s origins are deeply personal, stemming from an incident Wimazal witnessed on the Vienna U-Bahn.
Wimazal recounted the experience: while commuting one morning, she observed a woman being harassed by a man. Despite a crowded train car, no one intervened. Wimazal stepped in to offer help, but realized she would have been alone if the situation had escalated. The experience sparked a profound question: why do so many people look away, failing to stand up against injustice? That question became the driving force behind “My Body, My Choice.”
The song’s impact was immediate. Winning the FM4-Protestsongcontest in 2026 provided Black SunZet with a platform to amplify their message. “We saw that we could reach people and really make a difference,” Wernert said. “The song gives a voice to those affected and stands against looking away and remaining silent.”
A Collaborative Creative Process
The songwriting process for Black SunZet is a collaborative effort. The band members initially share ideas in a dedicated chat group before refining them into fully realized songs during rehearsals. “In the creative process, we get into a flow and find ourselves in a timeless, spaceless bubble, just us and our music,” Wernert described. This shared creative space allows them to build on each other’s experiences and perspectives, resulting in music that is both personal and universally resonant.
The band’s commitment to their message extends beyond the studio, and stage. At a concert in Munich, Wernert recalls numerous audience members approaching the band to express their gratitude for addressing these important themes. “That’s when I realized our music could really trigger something,” she said. This direct connection with their audience reinforces the band’s belief in the power of music to inspire change.
Looking Ahead: A Debut Album and Continued Advocacy
Following their success at the Protestsongcontest, Black SunZet is currently working on their debut album and planning future concerts. They remain steadfast in their commitment to spreading their message against violence and for greater respect. The band’s unique combination of musical talent, athletic dedication, and unwavering principles positions them as a powerful voice for a generation demanding equality.
Black SunZet’s next confirmed performance is alongside BLITZPØP at the Chelsea in Vienna on March 14, 2026. Fans can stay updated on their progress and upcoming shows through their social media channels and official website (details not provided in source material).
The band’s story serves as a compelling example of how individuals can leverage their passions to advocate for social change. Jael Wernert, balancing the demands of elite sport and a rising music career, embodies a spirit of resilience and determination that is sure to inspire audiences for years to come.
