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-Montana's Got Talent Production Team

Amanda Stewart

Growing up in the mountains of Montana, Amanda Stewart spent much of her time on her grandparent’s ranch, where she was first exposed to the acoustic instrumentation and simple yet honest songwriting of Americana, folk and country music styles.

Amanda channels a bare bones, stylistically diverse, sound with lyrics that probe towards life’s melancholic and pensive experiences, yet find unbashful moments to amp up and rock out.

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-Montana's Got Talent Production Team

Benny Weag
Raised in eastern Washington in the small farm town of Garfield, the little population of 500 didn't discourage Benny from chasing big dreams. After learning piano at a young age from the teachings of his mother and self-learning the guitar in his early teenage years, he got involved in his high school FFA program where he performed at State and National levels for their talent department. It was in these very experiences where he realized, "I want to sing and perform for a living." Through some Disney acting training his senior year of high school, he successfully obtained both an acting and music agent. First auditioning for roles in the film industry, Benny started transitioning more into his music career by recording in studios, meeting with labels, and auditioning for competitions such as NBC's The Voice. Some time passed and physical difficulties arose, so it was time for a break. After dealing with an undiagnosed physically limiting muscle issue since high school, by his young adult life it became imperative to find out what was going on. Finally in 2017, Benny was diagnosed with Myotonia. Best described by the example of “fainting goat syndrome,” this genetic muscle disorder affects skeletal muscle function by causing constant tenseness of muscles and preventing proper muscle contraction. With the new diagnosis and assistance of medication, Benny was able to alleviate his symptoms and start to get back into a more normal lifestyle. Never losing the passion for his dream, Benny picked up his guitar once again when he found Polson, Montana, where a music career was the last thing he thought he'd find there. After a couple years of performing, he was able to leave his job at the United State Postal Service in April of 2022 and made it onto Team Blake on NBC's hit show The Voice that same year. Now he performs all throughout western Montana at a variety of venues ranging from resorts and restaurants to weddings and private events. Being a songwriter as well, he has released two albums and one single over the last two years and is looking to write some more original music this winter while spending time performing in southern California. He is always looking to expand his following and find new adventures along the way. Montana's Got Talent seemed like the perfect way to continue the dream.

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-Montana's Got Talent Production Team

Beau Akimbo

In 2020, singer Margi Cates asked guitarist Nick Barr to play a gig with her in Missoula, MT. They soon forged a songwriting partnership, and started the indie pop band Beau Akimbo. They craft ear worm melodies, and tongue and cheek lyrics about stumbling through their twenties.

Their first album, Spark Bird, will be released in October.

Margi Cates evocative storytelling, and her warm and expressive voice combined with Nick Barrs groove and guitar chops create an experience like no other.

Margi Cates began singing as a child, climbing up onto any stage she could to belt out a song.

She’s studied music and voice for 20 years, and she pretty obsessed with being a vessel for sound. She worked professionally in Montana country bands, and then sang jazz, funk and R&B in New Orleans from 2016 - 2020. She was chosen to sing the national anthem in the Superdome for the New Orleans Saints after winning a singing competition in 2017, and that was a pretty cool experience.

Nick Barr brings musical precision and his arrangement skills as well as his beautiful guitar tones to Beau Akimbo. Raised in a Great Falls music family, Nick holds a degree in Music Performance and Composition from University of Montana. Besides playing guitar and drums, Nick holds a trumpet section position with the Missoula Symphony, and is a frequent freelancer for Missoula theater and music events. Nick arranges and produces music, including many of the tracks on Spark Bird.

Beau Akimbo is excited to share the Wachholz stage with so many talented musicians, and to share their music with you!

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-Montana's Got Talent Production Team

Cash Dean

My name is Cash Dean and I am a local rock and blues musician in the flathead. I have been a singer my whole life and started performing on stage at 5 years old. By taking inspiration from the singers of the 50s, 60s, and 70s I've created a show that makes people dance and feel exactly how they felt in the golden age of music.

I grew up with huge musical inspirations both from my family and from popular artists that were always being played at my house. Both my parents have musical backgrounds with my mom being an audio engineer and my father being a country songwriter, and even farther out my grandparents also had a big impact, My grandpa plays in a classic rock band to this day. But most importantly was the music that I was exposed to my whole life from household names like The Beatles and Elvis to lesser known 60s and 70s rock like The Doors and The Byrds. I grew up listening to music that meant something and I really only hope to bring that back for others. My goal in life is to be able to make an impact on people that way the bands of the past did for me.

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-Montana's Got Talent Production Team

Cash Muretta - Solo acoustic, Montana born. A Classic Country artist wanting to bring back real country music.

Bio: Born and Raised in small town Montana, Cash Muretta has always had a strong interest in music. Influenced by legends like Elton Britt, Marty Robbins, Johnny Cash, and Merle Haggard, but none more than his family. “Music has always been a family treasure, especially the stuff I grew up listening to while my family was around me. Though, today what I hear being played on the radio ain’t what I’ve been raised to know as country/western music. So, I’ve decided I’d continue this family tradition and aid in keepin country country.

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-Montana's Got Talent Production Team

Desirée Albonetti-Roberson

Desirée Albonetti-Roberson - has loved singing since she was 7 years old & found her love for performing onstage through musical theater. A passionate performer, Desirée has graced the stage in over 20 community theater productions. She earned Allie nominations from the Northwest Mississippi Theatre Alliance for her outstanding performances, including a celebrated portrayal of Mary Poppins, for which she won Best Actress in a Musical in 2017. Most recently, she appeared in Whitefish Theater Company’s production of A Christmas Carol: The Musical (2023), as Emily & an ensemble member. What she loves most about performing is the unique ability to inspire and create deep emotions & connections with people you may never even meet. She believes the ability to do that is incredibly powerful & gives God all the glory.

Originally from Hernando, Mississippi, she & her husband, Garrett, started their life together by moving to Montana in 2019, in a 1982 MCI conversion bus. They’ve enjoyed singing & making music together since they were dating. They now reside in Kalispell with their one year old daughter. Desirée is currently a stay-at-home mom, enjoys dabbling in photography and hopes to seize every opportunity to continue singing & performing. Her passion for the arts remains a vibrant part of her life. She is so thankful to have a husband who helps & supports her & lets her continue to dream. They are excitedly expecting their second child, next spring!

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-Montana's Got Talent Production Team

Drew Landry is a Cajun Songwriter & Filmmaker who resides in Northern Montana’s Blackfeet Nation. His upcoming album, “Exiles,” was recorded during the pandemic as an ode to his Louisiana roots. Ingredients in this sonic-gumbo include heartfelt lyrics, an incredible backing band, co-writers and deep cuts from legendary artists give Landry’s voice an authentic flavor not found in mainstream Country Music today. The Album will be released on September 22nd during The North Country Ramble, a yearly benefit concert at the Glacier Park Lodge.

The Troubadour has toured the world playing the Paradiso in Amsterdam to Jazzfest down in
New Orleans. Landry wrote and recorded with many of his musical heroes and has shared the
stage with everyone from Billy Joe Shaver to Merle Haggard. After playing a few tunes before a
Kristofferson gig in Louisiana, Kris told concert goers that Landry’s tune, “Last Man Standing”,
was “the best song he’d heard in 30 years.”
Landry moved to Montana after a near-death collision with an 18 Wheeler in 2015. He
recovered working as an Extension Agent on the Blackfeet reservation and started a family in
East Glacier. Montana shows stretch from Glacier Lodge to River City Roots in Missoula & Red
Ants in White Sulphur Springs. Currently, Landry is gearing up for a series of live shows and
recording an album of songs addressing the “Yellowstone Effect”. “I was lucky to have moved
here before everyone else did. I hope the Blackfeet Nation never looks like Whitefish.” Here’s a
recent article that featured his work during the Tyler Childers Benefit.

Landry often connects his music with causes he holds dear. Once his singing congressional
testimony went viral he signed with Warner Nashville to record BP Blues. The song addresses
the long-term health issues developed by Clean-up workers and coastal citizens in the wake of
the 2010 Deepwater Horizon blowout. Landry’s volunteer work to develop a MMIP database
song, “Hey Sister” helped shine a light on the Missing Persons epidemic in Indian Country.
Landry also produced the Solution to Pollution EP with Dr. John which featured the songs of his
songwriting hero Bobby Charles.
Select dates in the coming months include an August 29th appearance at the Museum of the
American Indian (Honoring Ernie Heavy Runner) and an appearance in East Nashville during Americana Music Conference. The Troubadour headlines The North Country Ramble at Glacier Park Lodge September 22nd (Album Release Show) and will perform at the Montana’s Got Talent Showcase October 26th.
For more information on the lineup for his upcoming showcase in Nashville & Glacier National
Park email fightinvillepr@gmail.com. Visit drewlandry.com for full bio, booking and contact
information.

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-Montana's Got Talent Production Team

Emma Zeider

Emma is a 15yo singer from Bigfork. She has been singing since she could walk and loves all kinds of music, with favorites including classics, oldies, jazz, and opera. She currently studies vocal performance with Dr. Micah Hunter and was honored to win the Adjudicator's Choice Award her first year performing at the Stillwater Music Festival. She lives on her family's farm and loves to play basketball and run track and field.

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-Montana's Got Talent Production Team

Fusion

Performing: “Make you Feel my Love”

Lyrical Dance from Dance Elements

Fusion is Dance Elements top all around competitive dance company comprised of high school dancers that will compete in all facets of dance. These company members have competed, trained and received numerous convention scholarships at 2 dance conventions this last season in Billings, MT and have competed at the highest level in Coeur D’alene, Idaho. Through hard work and dedication they will strive to exceed Dance Elements' highest expectations as our top competition team. Dance Elements is excited to see what the future holds for these dedicated dancers.

Pictured: Kayanna Kapity, Vanessa Solomon, Tayvia Nelson, Kylie Duke, Addison Marlow, Kodie Duke, Carmela Forcone & Nola Brown

Not Pictured: Ava Baker

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-Montana's Got Talent Production Team

Joe Martinez

Joe is a rising blues and country singer-songwriter born and raised in the scenic landscapes of Montana. Drawing inspiration from the powerful sounds of influential artists such as Marcus King, Chris Stapleton, and Jonny Lang, Joe creates a unique musical blend that marries heartfelt storytelling with rich, soulful melodies. From the outset of his musical journey, Joe has immersed himself in the vibrant music scene of Montana, performing at a variety of venues ranging from intimate bars to larger stages. His ability to connect with audiences has earned him a dedicated following, as listeners are drawn to his dynamic stage presence and the emotional depth of his performances. Recently, Joe released his debut EP, Montana, a collection of five original tracks that showcases his distinctive style. Each song on the EP reflects a fusion of blues and country influences, highlighting his talent for crafting narratives that resonate with both joy and heartache. The project serves as a testament to his artistic vision and dedication to his craft. With a commitment to authenticity and a passion for music that shines through in every performance, Joe Martinez is poised to make a significant mark in the music scene. As he continues to hone his craft and share his music, audiences can expect a powerful and evocative journey through the sounds of blues and country.

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-Montana's Got Talent Production Team

Mandy May Blest

Mandy is a singer-songwriter from Pennsylvania who spent 11 years in Los Angeles California. She now Resides in Montana with her 6 dogs. Where she paints and writes and plays her music to the abundance of wildlife at her home. She has a raw, soulful sound and has performed across the United States and in Europe.

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-Montana's Got Talent Production Team

Max Brayley

Max Brayley, a 7th grader at WMS, won 2nd place in the Burbank Singing Star contest at just 6 years old. He actively participated in concerts as a soloist, captivating audiences with his emotional voice. Max has also performed hip hop with Dance Elements, combining his singing talent with dance moves. He also loves Basketball and Skiing. @max.brayley @thebrayleyboys

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-Montana's Got Talent Production Team

Mindy Cochran and Mariah Gladstone

Mindy Cochran was introduced to aerial acrobatics at the age of 33, and her newfound passion fueled the opening of an aerial studio shortly thereafter. Today, Mindy has been teaching and performing aerial arts for over a decade, and has performed at music festivals and events across northwest United States, and alongside many renowned artists of the aerial world including the well-known Cirque Du Soleil.

Mindy’s other passions include hiking and snowboarding with her husband Darin.

Mariah Gladstone was born and raised between Kalispell, Helena, and the Blackfeet Reservation. She has been an aerialist since 2015 and enjoys blending strength and art together to dazzle audiences. When she isn’t flying, she runs her business Indigikitchen, teaching people about Indigenous food systems. Mariah and Mindy have united their fascination with aerial acrobatics to produce a powerful duet on aerial silks, performed for

the first time ever at Montana’s Got Talent.

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-Montana's Got Talent Production Team

Off in the Woods

Off in the Woods is a 7 piece Montana band. We play all original music along the stylings of Soul, Funk, Reggae and open tuned acoustic songs. We have a full horn section, drums, bass, guitar, hammond organ and aux-percussion/synth. The five original members all grew up in Polson, MT on the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Reservation. We have been playing together since the 6th grade but have been touring as Off in the Woods for 13+ years. We play up and down the State of Montana with a few shows in Idaho and Washington. In our time together we have worked our way up from free gigs at dive bars to playing historic theaters and festivals. We have played with many National and International touring bands such as George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic, Clinton Fearon and the Boogie Brown Band, Don Carlos and the Congos, Rusted Root, The English Beats, John Browns body, The Polyrythmics and Pato Banton.

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-Montana's Got Talent Production Team

Wyatt Johnson

I will be performing a spin off of Billy Joel’s “Piano Man.” I will be singing, playing piano and harmonica, and adding in impressions of various celebrities, characters and other notable people in pop culture.

It all started with a harmonica and a bad impression of Owen Wilson. Those humble beginnings became building blocks for Wyatt’s love of music and comedy, allowing him to craft a unique act that includes singing, piano, harmonica, and a lingering bad impression of Owen Wilson.

Wyatt has had the opportunity to perform his comedy routine in various shows, with personal highlights including winning his university’s talent show in 2023 and, later that same year, receiving an official invitation from NBC’s America’s Got Talent to audition for their show.

When he’s not working on his Owen Wilson impression, Wyatt stays busy with his studies at school, where he will graduate next spring with his Bachelor’s in American Studies. Following his graduation Wyatt plans to attend law school and hopes to eventually practice right here in Montana.

Wyatt also enjoys fly fishing, hiking, disc golf and basically anything that gets him outside.A proud graduate of Helena High School, Wyatt is grateful for the opportunity to perform in Montana’s Got Talent and is excited to help promote music and performance education across Big Sky country!

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-Montana's Got Talent Production Team

Montana's Got Talent - People's Choice Award

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