Even more so than the city’s stunning architecture and iconic landmarks, it’s the people that make Chicago what it is. In our Local Narratives series, you’ll get to know two talented Chicagoans at different stages of their creative journey. Hear their unique stories, how they lent their talents to Flyover’s Believe Chicago experience and the role the city has played in influencing their craft.
Singing has always been a cornerstone of Jazmine Matthews’ life.
A born and raised Chicagoan, Matthews began singing at the tender age of two. By nine, she’d already decided it was her dream to sing professionally, and it didn’t take long to find an audience. She went viral on Facebook for her rendition of a Michel’le song that same year, prompting the R&B star herself to comment and even fly out to meet Matthews.
“I really started getting into singing and after that. I started doing a mini TV show with my uncle that we made up,” Matthews says. “It’s called JAM — those are my initials.”
Matthews auditioned for the Soul Children of Chicago shortly after, an acclaimed program directed by the legendary Dr. Walt Whitman. The Soul Children of Chicago is a Grammy Award-winning choir that also supports children through education, career guidance, cultural experiences and, of course, singing.
Matthews wasn’t the first in her family to find a place in the choir — her mother, Markela, is an alumnus of the acclaimed program, too.
“What makes it amazing is Mr. Whitman. If I didn’t have him, I don’t know where I’d be,” Markela says. “He’s going to bring the best out of you, period.”
In Believe Chicago, Matthews, now 16, holds the spotlight as she solos with the Soul Children on stage at the Chicago Theater. As the singer belts an ode to the city with the choir behind her, a drone flies through the balcony and over the stage in a remarkably coordinated shot.
“I thought I was going to be nervous, but I really wasn’t,” says Matthews of the shoot. “I’m really proud of myself, but not just me — proud of all of us in the Soul Children.”
Matthews will continue her role with the Soul Children of Chicago and pursue her music career, with her mother cheering her on every step of the way.
“If you work hard, anything is possible,” Matthews says.
Immerse yourself in the city’s sights, sounds and culture at Flyover in Chicago — now open at Navy Pier.
