At just 14 years old, Hailey Benedict experienced a life-changing moment when she took the stage with Keith Urban at Edmonton’s Rogers Place on September 16, 2016. When Urban asked her what she wanted to be when she grew up, Hailey confidently answered, “I want to be a singer-songwriter.”
What happened next was beyond anything she could have imagined. Keith Urban, known for his genuine love for connecting with fans, not only encouraged her but handed her a guitar and invited her to perform for a crowd of nearly 20,000 people. What started as a simple question turned into an unforgettable experience, giving Hailey a glimpse of the future she was working toward.
Hailey took full advantage of the moment, performing her original song Clean Slate with remarkable poise. The audience was captivated, not just by her talent, but by her calm confidence under the bright lights. Keith Urban’s generosity and Hailey’s bravery turned this surprise moment into a life-changing event that left everyone inspired.
Hailey’s performance was even more special with her friend McKenna cheering her on from the crowd. McKenna’s excitement highlighted the importance of friendship and support, showing that celebrating others is just as meaningful as chasing your own dreams. Thanks to Keith Urban’s kindness and Hailey’s talent, this moment became one that will never be forgotten.
The video of the performance has since gone viral, racking up over 6 million views on YouTube, with fans praising both Hailey and Keith. One comment read, “Such an incredible moment! Hailey was amazing, especially for her age! And Keith was so awesome to make that happen.” Another fan wrote, “She’s definitely a future star! Keith Urban is a real gem for making this moment happen.”