Most 16-year-olds don’t break the internet at their school talent show—but Jared Watson isn’t your average teen.

Born with spinal muscular atrophy and using a motorized wheelchair, Jared stunned the crowd with a powerful country ballad, covering Randy Travis’s “I Told You So” with his dad on guitar.

Though he only placed third, Jared’s performance went viral—and even reached Randy Travis himself! The country star’s wife sent Jared a heartfelt note: “Randy teared up when he heard it.”

Since then, Jared’s landed local TV gigs, started recording demos, and is even writing his own songs.

“I thought this would be just another performance,” Jared said, “but it’s turning into something life-changing.”

His dad couldn’t be prouder: “He’s always been a great singer—getting to play beside him was a dream.”

From baseball dreams to center stage—Jared might just be country music’s next big thing.