Fairport native to perform national anthem at Bills-Ravens game
16
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (WIVB) -- Sunday is a big day for the Bills, but there also will be a special moment to look forward to in the moments leading up to the big game -- a talented SUNY Fredonia college student will take center stage to sing the national anthem.
Lucas West, a Fairport native, was asked to sing the national anthem at the wild-card game last Sunday when the Bills took on the Denver Broncos. Unfortunately, he was in Germany and had to turn the opportunity down. But he decided to ask for another chance.
"I went on a limb and requested if the divisional game was a possibility," said West. "They said yes, and I was so excited."
West's musical journey began long before this opportunity with the Bills. His mother, a music teacher, had him start taking piano lessons at 6 years old.
Over the years, he added several different instruments to his repertoire. But he didn't start signing until he got into middle school.
"I saw my sister in a Fairport High School drama production," said West. "She inspired me. I saw her sing and I knew I wanted to do that."
West is now pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Jazz Studies at SUNY Fredonia. He's also in his own jazz-funk band captivating sold-out crowds at local venues.
West's talent has brought him far, but he said he wouldn't be as successful without the support of the community.
"When you sing for Bills Mafia, it doesn't feel like a crowd that's going to judge you," said West. "Everyone is just so happy for me, and it really does mean the world to me."
Despite all of the excitement, West admitted that there are some nerves. He knows he has the responsibility of setting the tone for such an important game.
But he is ready to give it his all.
"I can just motivate them, get them in the right mindset, and hype them up," said West. "That's the most I can do as a fan but also as a performer."
Trina Catterson joined the News 4 team in 2024. She previously worked at WETM-TV in Elmira, a sister station of WIVB. See more of her work here.