LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Lubbock native Travis Garland is set to appear on “America’s Got Talent,” bringing his music career to a national stage.
“So, this opportunity came up a few months ago. It’s exciting. I’ve been working in the entertainment industry for a long time. And for me, this was just a cool opportunity to get to come on the show and hopefully reach a new audience,” Garland said.
Garland said representing his hometown is something he takes seriously.
“I mean, it means the world for me, like West Texas and Lubbock is, that’s my home. That’s where my family’s from. So, you know, I’m always honored to represent Lubbock and the 806. Yeah, and hopefully I can make everybody proud,” Garland said.
Garland’s music career began with performances at church and in theater. In 2003, at age 17, he signed a record deal and became part of the boyband NLT, known for the songs “That Girl” and “Heartburn.” He has also been recognized for his work on “Dancing with the Stars.”
Garland credited his Lubbock teachers with shaping his career.
“My dream is to get to sing and make music the rest of my life. It’s been my dream since I was a little kid in choir class at Honey Elementary was to be one of the greatest artists ever and to be one of the biggest artists ever. My teachers, my music teachers and my theater teachers in Lubbock were, I wouldn’t be here without their support and training. I want to give a shout out to Miss Allison, my music teacher at Honey Elementary, Miss Russell, the choir teacher at O.L. Slayton, Miss Ray, the theater teacher at O.L. Slayton,” Garland said.
Garland said he wants to encourage other artists from smaller cities not to give up.
“I think a lot of times coming from a place like Lubbock, you think that maybe I can’t have this career, I can’t make it. And I would just say like, that’s not true at all. Look at me and plenty of people before me, Buddy Holly and so many others. Lubbock obviously has a rich musical history. So I would just say dedicate yourself to your craft, keep going, and anything is possible,” Garland said.
Garland also addressed his hometown directly ahead of his performance.
“I want to say to everybody in Lubbock, I love you guys. I hope you’ll tune in and I hope I make you proud,” Garland said.
Copyright 2026 KCBD. All rights reserved.