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Performing At First Night Is Dream Come True For Local Teen

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- It may hard to believe, but a New Year is just days away.

And once again, thanks to the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh will be rocking on New Year's Eve.

The Highmark First Night Celebration promises to be packed full of family-fun events and entertainment.

Some of that entertainment will come from a local 14-year-old.

Gabby Barrett, of Munhall, won this year's First Night Sing-Off.

It's quite an accomplishment considering the stiff competition, and that fact that Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Smokey Robinson, was the judge.

A friend actually entered a video of Gabby singing.

"My dad told me that I won the Smokey Robinson contest. I was like, 'What!' I was like, 'Oh my God!' I was very surprised, and it's amazing and an honor to be chosen by him to win," said Gabby.

Gabby has been singing most of her life and has performed at venues all over Pennsylvania.

She says she doesn't get nervous on stage and is just thrilled to be part of such a fun, popular Pittsburgh tradition.

Her father is just as excited.

"I'm just really proud of her, she works really hard," said Blasé Barrett. "I would tell any kids that are trying to do this, just keep working your dreams and keep believing in yourself."

First Night kicks off Wednesday, Dec. 31 at 6 p.m.

For more information, visit First Night Pittsburgh's website here!

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