Already crowned a music industry golden boy, pop sensation Shawn Desman is taking his two Juno nominations in stride.

No stranger to success, Desman has already won industry recognition in the form of his first gold record.

"When I found out that I went gold I was like, 'Oh my God' I was so happy," Desman told CTV's etalk Daily. "They came out with my plaque and I just started crying. I was so emotional just 'cause I've wanted this all my life."

At the age of 19, and with only one record under his belt, the R&B performer can hardly believe how far he's come.

"I feel really lucky, really blessed. I mean not too many people get the chance from their first record to get nominated for any Junos, let alone two," Desman explained.

Shawn is nominated for New Artist of the Year, along with his album Get Ready which is up for Best R&B/Soul Recording honours.

Desman says he's happy to be nominated alongside some of the biggest new names in pop music.

"I'm going against some big people," Desman said. "Avril Lavigne in the best new artist category which I really think she's going to win. I mean this year was her year right, so we'll see."

But don't let his modesty fool you. The young pop star hasn't resigned himself to also-ran status. In fact, he's optimistic about his chances in the R&B category.

"I fell a little bit better in that category than in the best new artist," Desman said. Without dismissing the chances of rivals Glenn Lewis and Remy Shand, Desman is keen to ensure his fans don't rule him out.

"This is my first Junos, I'm really looking forward to it, you know. It's the Canadian Grammys, so it's going to be cool."

Even if Shawn Desman leaves the Junos without a trophy, his fans won't be disappointed. They're guaranteed a glimpse of the star during the Juno ceremony when he assumes his role as an award presenter.

Shawn Desman will also be among 30 nominees and hundreds of music industry representatives slated to board the "Juno train" leaving Toronto for Ottawa on Friday.