Like most people, senior Shaquon Howard gets stage fright. He is nervous as he takes to the stage with Project Two, a Huntley High School singing group.

Despite his nerves, he has prepared for this moment. To pump himself up before taking the stage, he listened to the songs he will be performing, keeping them fresh in his mind.

Howard has always enjoyed singing, and joined Project Two at the recommendation of his friend, senior Dylan Ladd.

“There’s just something about singing that makes me happy,” said Howard. “I feel like myself [when I’m singing].”

Howard’s taste in music has also helped shape his musical style. He says that he likes any kind of music that sounds good, especially if it has skill-based singing.

“Growing up, it was always Michael Jackson,” said Howard, referring to his favorite musician.

Singing with power takes practice. Howard has no voice coach, but is a member of Huntley High School’s choir. Standing with choir folders in hand, Howard and the other students will do warm-ups and vocal exercises before melding their voices to create a wall of sound. Being a member of the choir helps Howard to keep his voice in tip-top shape.

He also practices his singing by posting videos featuring his voice to YouTube.

“I like to keep people connected, and let them hear [my singing],” said Howard.

Howard started his YouTube channel under the name Cozae7 (Cozae is Howard’s middle name) at the urging of one of his friends. On the channel, he posts covers of popular artists like Usher and Frank Ocean.

Overall, Howard sings because it is what he enjoys, and what he believes he does best.

“I love singing, and I love music,” said Howard.

Sometimes, having a passion for something is as simple as that.