His name has graced the top of the iTunes Pop charts, and he’s also starred on America’s Got Talent.
We’re speaking of Taylor Mathews of course. If the name doesn’t ring a bell, Taylor is the host (and one of the judges) of this year’s Got Talent competition.
Taylor’s recent EP ‘Head Over Feeling,’ debuted in the Top 40 on the iTunes Pop charts. He’s currently writing and recording with Grammy-winning producers and songwriters to craft his debut album.
I interviewed Taylor not too long ago- his words were bold and full of life- but, more interestingly, he shared what motivates him on a daily basis. It boiled down to one phrase:
BECAUSE I WANT THIS MORE THAN ANYTHING IN THE WORLD.
Bold, indeed.
How exactly did you wind up America’s got talent? Do tell.
It literally started in a coffeeshop, to spare you from the long list of details… My buddy asked me after playing that night to audition, I of course said no. Then, after resting on the idea for about a month, I decided it couldn’t hurt. I called my dad the day before auditions and he took off work, we drove 5 hours, waited 12, and drove back another 5. After a long 3 weeks, we found out we made it. First step towards a dream come true!
You’re a working musician. What has kept you moving forward in this business?
Honestly, I wouldn’t be where I am today without my dad, first and foremost. He paid his way through college by playing music at different bars and clubs. He finally gave it up for my mom, not a very suitable lifestyle for a future family. 
I have to say though, with the combination of my dad, the rest of my family, my friends and my whole team, I can’t help but be inspired every day. They’re my foundation. I am insanely blessed to be able to have the kind of support system I have.
What do you tell yourself everyday to stay motivated?
I try to surround myself with a very driven atmosphere. It’s 85% passion and persistence. The background on my computer, for instance, sums it up for me, “BECAUSE I WANT THIS MORE THAN ANYTHING IN THE WORLD.”
What made you decide to host CYT’s Got Talent?
Because I love being around talented people! [Period.]
I’ve been getting a lot of people saying they are intimidated to audition for CYT’s Got Talent (yeah, believe it or not, kids are sometimes SHY in CYT). Aside from the prize, what should motivate them to audition?
One thing I’ve learned in this industry is to never underestimate anyone, especially yourself. Just because you try to convince yourself you’re not good enough, you’ll be surprised how far you can get. Example A: me. Believe it or not there’s a difference to what you think you’re think you’re capable of and what you’re actually capable of.
Opportunity is all you have when you’re following your dreams, so if it’s there, take it.
What makes for a stellar audition?
Be confident. Everything in life resides on confidence. Love, fashion, presidencies, you name it. People believe in confidence. It’s a game of follow the leader, do a good job at pretending like you know where you’re going or what you’re doing without hesitation and they’ll believe it. Don’t question yourself, go with your gut and own it.