Thirteen-year-old Chase Varnes is not only a rising country music star, but also a kid who loves riding bikes with friends and enjoying the outdoors in Central Saanich. While many kids are focused on school and hobbies, Chase is also preparing for performances in front of thousands of people. Yet, he’s clear about one thing—he still wants to enjoy being young.
Chase is building a name for himself in the Canadian music scene. He has already performed before an NHL game and impressed crowds at the Sidney Market. His summer schedule is packed, with a performance at Sunfest and possible ticketed events in Alberta this fall.
Despite his busy music life, Chase is determined not to rush into full-time fame. He believes it’s important to stay grounded and have time for the simple joys of being a kid. While he loves performing, he also enjoys just hanging out with friends, riding bikes, and exploring nature.
Chase’s love for music began a few years ago when he picked up a guitar and wrote a song in memory of his grandfather. From there, his talent grew. He learned how to play drums and piano, started covering country songs, and eventually began writing his own music. His mom, Rena Varnes, says he’s always been a natural performer and loves making people smile through music.
At first, Chase played music outside the BC Liquor Store in Sidney. People noticed his talent and began posting videos online. The positive reaction encouraged him to keep going. Within a year, he was performing on bigger stages and taking his passion seriously.
Social media has helped Chase reach a wider audience. This year, he even appeared on America’s Got Talent and performed at professional sports events. But he hasn’t forgotten where he started. He still shows up to the local Sidney Market to share his music with the community.
Chase is influenced by artists like Ed Sheeran, Zach Bryan, and Luke Combs. He admires their songwriting skills and original sound. Although many country songs focus on themes like trucks, girls, and beer, Chase feels these topics don’t match his own life experience. He prefers writing about feelings, hopes, and things he dreams about.
One of his favorite original songs was written for his aunt’s wedding. She asked him to create a song for her first dance, and he surprised her with a personal and emotional tune. He says it’s a strong song that tells the story of the couple and how their lives changed after meeting.
Another song, “Me Without You,” started as a joke that included classic country themes. But over time, it grew into something more serious. Chase is careful about staying true to himself in his music. He doesn’t want to write about things he hasn’t lived through. Instead, he explores what could be, using his imagination and heart.
Chase is now working with Texas-based music producer Mike Meadows. He’s planning to write and record several new songs in Alberta this summer. His mom says the songs will be released this fall and will show how much he’s grown as a writer and performer.
Even with all the shows and studio time, Chase never forgets to be 13. He often heads out on mountain bike adventures with six close friends. They explore the back roads of the Peninsula, ride without a set plan, and discover fun spots like Thetis Lake and Elk Lake. He says the best part is not knowing where they’ll end up—just going wherever the road takes them.
Chase will be performing twice at Sunfest this summer. On July 31, he’ll play a short set at 6:30 p.m., and later that weekend, he’ll return to the stage for a country music showcase. As his Chase Varnes music journey continues, he’s proving it’s possible to chase big dreams while still enjoying the ride.
