Whiz Kid: Meet Sydney Rhame

Name: Sydney Rhame, 12

School: Renfroe Middle School

Accomplishments: This 12-year-old singer songwriter from Decatur has been writing music and lyrics since she was 6. In addition, she is an accomplished guitarist and has been performing for audiences for the past five years, including at local events and festivals, according to her mom, Julie Rhame, a City Schools of Decatur board member. She even played at Decatur's own Eddie's Attic, long known as a launch point for many careers, including Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush of Sugarland, John Mayer and Shawn Mullins. Most recently, Sydney played her guitar and sang at the fundraiser for the Decatur Education Foundation, held on March 17 at in Oakhurst. This singing prodigy works under the guidance of two voice coaches, including Jan Smith, whose client list includes well-known Atlanta Hip Hop star Usher and Justin Bieber. She won $1,000 from a Kudzu "Amazing Kid" contest in 2009, according to Decatur Metro. According to her mom, Sydney is on the brink of a possible deal with a music label, though no details were divulged.