[1][2] Born in Baku, Azerbaijan, on 10 February 1977, Shahin is a descendant of celebrated 19th century Azerbaijani poet Mirza Alesker Novres.

His first major public performance, aged 11, was in Azerbaijan State Philharmonic Hall for a symphony orchestra concert by composer Azer Rzayev.

[5] From 15 to 19 Shahin immersed himself in his favoured music, listening to the great pianists: Ahmad Jamal, Oscar Peterson, Bill Evans, Keith Jarrett, Chick Corea; all the while studying harmony and composition.

From 1997 he began to play in America and Europe in different formats: solo,[7] trio, quartet....[8] There have also been experiments; adding different instruments to the group,[9] including his own voice.

His detailed study of mugham added another ingredient to his compositions and concerts,[11] furthering the mix of West and East.A defining moment in Shahin's work and career was his meeting with Ahmad Jamal.