CHARLEY’S REST. & LOUNGE; FIRCREST, WA
Charley’s big Contest Finale

By Ty Hughes

After six full months of earning points for a strong finish every Thursday night during Charley’s popular karaoke contest, eight of the top point earners gathered together for a head to head sing off.

Under the direction of Super Steve, Charley’s accomplished karaoke host, Tacoma’s top singing talent; Scott, Shamaurie, DH, Joanie, Tia, Spree, Alabama and Marlo went head to head, tournament style, in their quest to finish in the money on Thursday, July 17th. Nearly $1,000 in entry fees accumulated over the six month period of qualifiers would be paid back to the singers; $400 to 1st Place, $300 to 2nd Place, $100 to 3rd and 4th Place, while 5th through 8th Place received $25 Gift Certificates to Charley’s.

Eight hand-picked judges were scattered throughout a healthy audience, prepared to sift through eight amazing performers, giving four license to move on to the next round of competition. Scoring was based on vocal ability and stage presence.

The themes were the theme for the evening. Twenty four themes were pre-selected by Super Steve, giving every singer their choice of Oldies, Rap Hip Hop, Contemporary, Soundtracks, Pop Rock, One Hit Wonders or Love Songs to name just a few. Each finalist was to choose five songs in five categories in preparation for the contest finale.

First up, it was Shamaurie (top point earner) vs. Scott (eighth top point earner), followed by DH vs. Joanie, Tia vs. Spree, and wrapping up the first round, Alabama vs. Marlo. Marlo’s Your Gonna Love Me left the audience completely stunned and speechless after a performance worthy of superstardom.

Super Steve announced the four advancing finalists to an expectant crowd. Shamaurie, DH, Spree and Marlo were the lucky ones while Scott, Joanie, Tia and Alabama each received a rousing applause of gratitude and a $25 Gift Certificate.

In the 2nd round, DH and Spree were voted out and graciously accepted a hundred dollar bill each for their amazing performances.

So it was down to the two top finalists, Shamaurie and Marlo. Each would sing three songs within the pre-selected, randomly shuffled themes. After a quick wardrobe change, Marlo sang I Am Changing and Shamaurie sang Rhythm Of The Night. For her second song, Marlo didn’t know the tune, Umbrella, and pretty much tanked, while Shamaurie belted out I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing in fine style. For her final performance, Marlo had to come back strong after a poor showing previously. She chose Greatest Love Of All, right in her wheelhouse and finished strong. Shamaurie laid down With Or Without You and felt good about his chances, especially after Marlo’s flub.

As the scores were totaled, Super Steve got the crowd up and dancing with some choice dance hits. Everyone was having a blast.

Finally, the results. With a pregnant pause, Super Steve revealed the runner up… the crowd was silent, holding their breath… Shamaurie! The crowd erupts and Marlo gushes with elation. Shamaurie is awarded a whopping $300 in cash and Marlo, $400 with top honors.

Many expected Marlo’s lackluster second song to cause her to take the runner up spot, but apparently her first performance still reigned supreme in the eyes of the judges, putting her over the top.

Congratulations Marlo! And congratulations to every competitor that night – everyone was flawless – entertainment at its greatest.

A big thank you goes out to Super Steve for his professionalism and to Charley’s management for providing such an incredible opportunity in an even more incredible venue. Charley’s is an awesome choice for your entertainment dollar every Thursday night. The food is out of this world, the drinks are well-priced, the music and sound system are second to none and the company, engaging. Jamie and Rachelle kicked butt behind the bar.

A visit to Charley’s is like coming home. Thomas, a Charley’s regular, put it well when he said, “Some bars are born into greatness, some bars achieve greatness, but Charley’s has Super Steve and IS greatness!”

Super Steve has already kicked off the next version of the same contest and welcomes you all to come join in the “family”. Charley’s has become the premier location for Tacoma’s top talent to network, integrate and hob nob on Thursday nights. Find them at 6520 19th Street W in Fircrest, across from Tacoma Community College.