It is safe to say that for local teen, Matt Billor, playing music and singing in front of others seems to come naturally, which the Riverview High School senior is by no means shy to demonstrate.
Whether it be on last year’s family vacation in Cancun, Mexico where he performed two original songs that he wrote in front of 500 people, or on stage at Sloppy Joes and Irish Kevin’s in Key West, Matt made sure he was not only heard but remembered.
“My Dad is my manager and tries to get me up on stage anywhere he can for experience,” Matt,17, said.
By being part of a family that loves music and to sing, it was only a matter of time before the young country music singer was noticed.
“We are a singing family and have always sung around the kids,” said his dad, Steve Billor, a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s deputy, adding, “Matt however, seems to have received all the singing talent.”
Steve explained that from an early age, his son loved to sing.
“When he was just three years old, he would sing songs by Celine Dion,” he said.
As he grew, Matt began taking his talent seriously, which paid off. The occasional performances in front of family and friends morphed into something much more, reaching audiences far beyond the family circle.
Now in high school, Matt began learning guitar at Riverview High School. That led to writing his own songs and music as well as making an appearance in front of his peers during the Riverview High School “Riverview Idol” competition.
“When he got in front of the audience, he was hooked,” Steve said. “He is now taking music lessons at the Music Showcase in Brandon, which puts Matt on stage for several shows and opportunities to perform around town.”
Matt is regularly singing the National Anthem at his High School, wrestling matches and charity fundraisers and was given the opportunity to sing the Anthem at several University of South Florida soccer, basketball and softball games this past year.
“My main genre is country, but I am content to sing whatever and wherever is needed or required,” he said. “My dream is to be a country singer and songwriter. There is no better feeling for me than performing in front of people.”
Matt hopes to attend USF, accompanied by his music.
To hear Matt sing, check him out on Youtube, Matt Billor National Anthem, USF.
