By Spencer Sterritt

Lantzville singers hits the high notes on national TV

Feb 15, 2018 | 1:09 PM

NANAIMO — Young Lantzville singer Raymond Salgado could often be seen busking and singing in downtown Nanaimo and now he can be seen on virtually every TV screen in the country.

Salgado, 19-years-old, was a contestant on the singing competition show The Launch, where he sang for music producers and cultural icon Boy George. He and four other young singers were in a contest to lay down tracks on a professionally recorded and released song.

Though he wasn’t selected, Salgado said making it through the audition process and showing off his voice to major music stars was “one of the best experiences of my whole life.”

For his shot at the big time, he sang first a Charlie Puth song, which wowed the judges, followed by a rendition of a Sam Smith song.

“”I’m more of a power ballad guy, but I like doing faster stuff as well,” he said of his song selection.

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The Sam Smith selection was important for Salgado, who said the UK singer is a major inspiration.

“He was only a voice on a dance track and now he’s one of the biggest artists of our generation.”

It was a remarkable step on his continuing journey towards being a superstar. When he was younger, Salgado was shy and reserved, singing only to and for himself. But then, at his Grade 7 graduation, he sang for the ceremony and wowed everyone with his voice. With his feet now under him, Salgado started singing in downtown Nanaimo for a crowd.

“The first day I went to street perform, I was really nervous. I didn’t know what to expect. But everyone is just so supportive, it’s a crazy feeling and that’s why I love singing and showing my talent.”

Despite not being chosen, Salgado said it was an honour to be on the big stage and he hopes it’ll be the profile boost he was looking for.

He said to listen for an EP being released at some point this year, as well as a collaboration with local rap artists Sirreal.

Once the weather is warmer, he said he can always be found singing and busking downtown.

You can watch is episode online at The Launch website.

spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @spencer_sterrit