Jordan McIntosh

Destiny.

There's little more powerful than that which is predetermined for us. Just ask Jordan McIntosh. The latest set of pipes poised to overtake the world of country music, this Ottawa-based teen heartthrob is clearly an apple in fate's eye.

Not that he's about to let fate make all the decisions. Confined to the walls of high school but his future is certainly a vast wealth of opportunity. Initially discovering a love of singing under innocent youthful pretences, McIntosh's inimitable abilities blossomed into what is now a budding, enviable career.

"I always idolized my older sister. When she started singing, I thought, ‘Well, I'm going to start singing now too,'" he reflects cheerfully. "That progressed into what it is today and I have to thank her. If she never started singing, I wouldn't have either."

Excelling almost immediately, McIntosh realized his innate talent, steamrolling into a debut public appearance in a Fourth Grade talent show. Urged on by warm reception and an almost instant following, an adorable goal to be his sibling's equal quickly became a life's mission.

"I obviously had a dream of this growing. That started to become a reality over the past year. That might seem quick but I've been working at this for about seven or eight years," he reveals. "There was always that hope but I keep an open mind and stay grounded. There's a onein- a-million chance that you'll make a career of your ability. It keeps you focused."

Refusing to let the fear of failure overtake his vision, McIntosh proceeded to partake in multiple contests and showcases, amassing a dedicated fan base and garnering an impressive catalogue of accomplishments. At that, with accolades including two consecutive First Place awards in the American Idol Experience and the Kiwanis Idol competition as well as placing at prestigious Stars on The Rise event, Jordan McIntosh truly is that one-in-a-milliontalent.

While much of that matchless dexterity is derived from McIntosh's own distinctly velvety voice, he does cite many great influences and inspirational motivators along his journey. Initially cutting chops on the likes of Carrie Underwood and Mariah Carey before blossoming into a more mature range, he now credits the likes of Luke Bryan, Johnny Reid, Taylor Swift and Jason Aldean for shaping that alluring intonation. "These are people who really took the time to build their career," McIntosh beams. "It's inspiring to see what they've done and strive to attain the capabilities, successes and talent they have. But most importantly though, they have a great support system behind them; terrific people helping them. That's something I definitely have. I couldn't do any of this without my family. We've been through a lot together and they keep my feet planted firmly. They're on this journey with me so if I'm going places, they're coming with me."

To that extent, as his music is added to national radio stations daily and showcase performances grow in popularity, many people find themselves easily relating to McIntosh. Still, despite notoriety, requests for him to sing anthems at sporting events and more, the teen stays steadfastly grounded. He wears multiple hats from son and brother to charity event supporter, student and up-and-coming chanteur.

"It's difficult to balance everything," he admits. "I've had to eliminate some things from my life to pursue this but everyone is so supportive. From family to my teachers, they're behind me with this. They afford me time to work on my music and improve in this career without sacrificing something as important as school." Regardless, with so many aspects fuelling his song and spirit, McIntosh is constantly rife with fresh ideas.

"My music offers a male perspective on what someone like Taylor Swift might write about," he concludes. "This is something for the guys. A lot of male country artists tend to prefer singing about where they're from, parties and the work day. Girls are the ones singing about relationships and the problems within them. I bring the male perspective to this kind of music. It's great if women appreciate that but I also hope that it's helpful for men in the audience as well.