A Rimbey teen’s musical talent has launched him to the top of the charts at the Strathmore Stampede Talent Show.
Seventeen-year-old Jaret Matthews won the talent contest Aug. 5 with the song Somebody’s Heartbreak by Hunter Hayes. He was among the top five chosen by audience ballot to advance to the finals.
As the first place winner, Matthews received a cash prize of $800.
The young singer is thrilled with his win.
“I was very surprised. I was very nervous. There was a huge crowd of strangers that I had to play in front of. But I’m just so happy to win something like that for doing something I absolutely love,” he said.
Matthews, who placed fourth at the Ponoka Stampede Talent Contest has been playing guitar and singing since he was around 11-years-old and received a guitar for Christmas.
He is a self-taught musician and enjoys playing all types of music.
“I learned to play by ear and have had some help from the Internet. I enjoy all genres of music. I don’t really have a favorite.”
Playing in front of an audience is not easy, but Matthews said once he begins his performance, he is able to settle down and focus.
“It is nerve wracking before I start singing for sure, but once I start singing everything closes off. I can see them (the audience), but then they all melt away and I’m fine.”
Matthews is a graduate of Rimbey High School and is now working at NAPA. His future plans aren’t set in stone but he is considering a career in music and is hopeful he will get more exposure.