A talented Leduc singer-songwriter made a major mark at the Calgary Stampede this year.
Julia Vos won the Nashville Star North annual competition held at what’s called the world's largest outdoor exposition.
“It’s been a pretty whirlwind week or so,” said Vos by phone July 21.
She noted it was the third time she’s entered the Nashville talent competition at the stampede, and has been in the top six before. The same thing happened this time, until she had the opportunity to sing two more songs. Then the announcement was made for third, second and first place; when they got to first place, they said Vos’ name.
“I almost couldn’t believe it,” she said. Some of the prizes she received for first place included cash, a recording session with MCC Records in Calgary, time with songwriter Jake Matthews, a photo shoot and a trip to the Country Music Awards.
On top of that, Vos got to perform her own set the last Saturday of stampede, which she said was very exciting.
“I just remember being terrified,” said Vos. “You just are so grateful and scared at the same time.
“The second you get out there, you just can’t be scared.”
Vos’ musical pedigree is considerable and well known in the area. Originally from Pigeon Lake, she said music and singing ahs been part of her life, “Probably since I can remember.” Vos said her family was very active singing and making music at family gatherings, church and many other places. She and her family performed under the name Vos Family Singers. She attended Christ the Redeemer School in Leduc
Since then, Vos has attended U of A but is now at Sheridan College pursuing a music-based education. “From a young age I’ve had a passion for country music,” she added.
During the competition, Vos performed at the preliminaries Saturday July 9, then finals Monday July 11 held in the Nashville North tent. After capturing the top spot Vos received prizes worth over $10,000, including a trip to London, Ontario to watch the Country Music Awards and a 30 minute performance on the Nashville North Stage on July 16.
Vos earned first place, followed by Tracy Bone and Alex Ezeta.
According to the Stampede website, the annual Nashville North Star competition gives 10 aspiring artists a chance to showcase their talent, and maybe even launch their music career. Competitors submit a one-minute entry video for the chance to perform in front of thousands at Nashville North.
Want to hear Vos’ music? You can listen to her original song "Let Me Know" (iTunes link: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/let-me-know-single/id938545266).
Vos said she loves writing and performing country music and sees a lot more of it in her future. “I always come back to country music,” she added.