Teen dedicates Morristown Onstage performance to late father

This is the second in a series of profiles highlighting the finalists of Morristown Onstage, to be held Feb. 24 at the Mayo Performing Arts Center.  

MORRISTOWN - Leah Humphrey’s dad is the inspiration for her music, and when she takes the stage for Morristown Onstage next month, she’ll play the song she sang at his funeral.

Hunphrey’s father passed away two years ago in a car crash, and she played “Slow it Down” by the Lumineers at the service.

This song has so much sentimental value to me,” said Humphrey, 16, of Morris Plains. “It's such a powerful song and it makes me feel like he is still with me. I think performing this song is a way to honor and fulfill the dreams that he didn't get the chance to.”

For Morristown Onstage, Humphrey will sing and play guitar during her performance. She has been playing guitar since she was eight years old and singing as long as she can remember.

A junior at Morristown High School, Humphrey said she feels connected to the area because of all the friends she’s made here. She’s excited to go for her big break in her hometown.

“I've been wanting to play for a bigger audience since eighth grade and this seemed like a great opportunity to follow that dream,” Humphrey said. “Everyone starts somewhere, and this is where I would like to start my own community.”

Humphrey plans to practice daily leading up to the competition to ensure her performance is the best it can be.

Though winning the prize money would be great, and she’d use it for college, Humphrey insists that’s not why she’s in Morristown Onstage.

“I am in this competition to share my music with the audience and hopefully go further in my career,” Humphrey said. “Music is so important to me and all I want is to perform and hopefully touch people's hearts. “

Humphrey hopes she has a leg up on the competition because of how meaningful the experience will be for her.

“Playing and sharing my music is my dream and this could be the start of that,” she said. “I want to inspire people and change lives. I want to honor my dad and make him proud.”

Staff Writer Michael Izzo: 973-713-5194;mizzo@GannettNJ.com

Morristown Onstage

What: A show featuring the best amateur talent from Morristown, Morris Township and Morris Plains, presented by and benefiting the Morris Educational Foundation.

When: Wednesday, Feb. 24

Where: Mayo Performing Arts Center, 100 South St. in Morristown.