Swank, the Southend’s hottest gay and lesbian bar, held their first-ever Swank Idol finale on March 3, 2010 in front of an exuberant crowd of supporters. It seemed everyone had some sort of stake in the contest that night.

Dori, Swank’s owner, teamed up with Renten and Mama Monalot at the judges’ table, preparing for a real showing. DJ Lorrie fired up her sound system and coordinated with the judges and contestants. And seven talented finalists roamed the room inconspicuously, waiting for their cue. An underlying buzz swirled around the bar and its swelling crowd as Swank Idol was finally coming to an end after several months of qualifiers.

Those special seven finalists (in order of appearance) performed the following:

1. Shaquan – Nobody’s Supposed To Be Here
2. Patti – I Believe In A Thing Called Love
3. Jamie – I Will Always Love You
4. Ricky – Remember When It Rained
5. Sabrina – All Jacked Up
6. Desi – Me And Bobby Magee
7. Georgia – At Last

Each contestant stepped up and gave it everything they had that night. It all came down to this final performance. They all sounded amazing, but there were a few real standouts as always. Ricky, who just landed a part in a local musical, sang his butt off and was the clear favorite. He rose above the rest to take the top honors and a couple hundred bucks, not to mention, being named the first Swank Idol ever! Way to go Ricky!

Georgia wrapped up the contest with a real “swanky” strip tease, complete with all the props and trimmings. I’d like to say she really shocked the crowd by baring herself in front of everyone, but I think it would take an awful lot to shock this crowd. Her performance was riveting and very well choreographed. Plus, she looked great, especially with those fancy pasties. What a fun way to put the wraps on Swank’s biggest singing contest to date.

When it was all said and done, and the judges had all chimed in with their comments, and Ricky was pronounced the winner, DJ Lorrie was quick to inform everyone that they would be kicking off Swank Idol II in May! So come on out and get involved in their next big production at the Southend’s premiere alternative club very soon! These folks are so much fun, just leave your ego at the door.

Swank’s monthly calendar offers something for everyone, including karaoke three days a week; Mondays with DJ Nelz, Wednesdays and Thursdays with DJ Lorrie, plus X-Rated Bingo on the last Sunday each month with Mama Monalot as host… could be fun!

Swank provides a safe environment that welcomes all gay, lesbian, straight, and gay-friendly people. Swank prides itself on serving up great drinks, delicious food and excellent customer service. Featuring one of the best sound and lighting systems in the southend, Swank boasts top local and international DJ’s who take requests and spin the latest Top 40 and old school every Friday and Saturday night until 2am.

Swank also features a large outdoor patio area for guests to take in some fresh air and enjoy the views of the golf course. Swing on by and give them a visit, they’re located at 24437 Russell Road in the Kent Valley. (253) 854-2110 or online at www.swankkent.com.

Karaoke Host, DJ Lorrie is workin’ the crowd at Kent’s premier alternative gay and lesbian bar every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday night. If you’re on the hunt for a crazy fun night of singing and real characters, Swank is the place for you!

Now is the time for you to get in there and qualify to become the very first Swank Idol! On Wednesday nights, KJ Lorrie is still taking sign ups for those that feel they deserve to be designated Swank Idol for 2010. But, you had better bring your “A” game, because these guys can really sing!

We popped in for a looksie one Wednesday night in January to find a towering drag queen, Mama Monalot, carousing the bar, stirring up as much activity as she possibly could. Her pint-sized sidekick, Renten, was at her side, dwarfed by comparison and sporting a cowboy hat and painted on soul patch that looked incredibly real. Both were handing out raffle tickets for the giveaways later.

Travis, Swank’s Manager, Matty and Shaun were holding down the bar, serving up some swanky cocktails, lubing the crowd for the amazing night of competition that lay ahead.

Swank is laid out in a very unique way. There are two levels separated by the bar. From the upper level, the bar is sunken, but still accessible from all sides. There’s a living room setting, complete with coffee tables and several big couches in a semi-circle, where Swank patrons will relax and enjoy each other’s company over a tasty cocktail. Very relaxing, like a home away from home.

There are two pool tables and two dart boards on the upper level, plus a bunch of tables to sit and catch up with friends.
On the opposite side of the bar is where most of the entertainment takes place. DJ Lorrie’s got her professional and extensive sound system set up on backside of the massive dance floor. Towering speakers loom over the gathering audience. The back wall of the dance floor is covered in mirrors, making the room look twice as big as it is. Lorrie had several tables set up on the dance floor, plus the judge’s table off to the side. The bar began to fill up, and by 9pm, she was ready to kick off the contest. Normally she’d have nine or ten contestants, but tonight there would only be six. Nonetheless, someone was going to advance to the finals.

It was country theme night. Shaun the bartender, sang I Wanna Live. Lupe sang Independence Day, Lolo did I Feel Like A Woman, Sabrina was Here For The Party, Jonathan, our old karaoke friend, sang Fourth Of July, and Dee rounded out the competition with Harper Valley PTA. Everyone totally rocked it, and the audience applauded loudly for each of them. In the end, it was Sabrina who barely beat out Dee for the opportunity to move on. But, I have a feeling all of them will be back for another try. The finals aren’t until Wednesday, March 3rd, so y’all have plenty of time to qualify throughout February for Swank Idol. The judges chime in with their own thoughts after each performance, offering a fun twist to the whole night. The next week would be a 70’s disco theme – could be interesting.

Swank is just a real fun place. These guys really cut loose and have a great time. Come on out and join the fun, you’ll absolutely love the people whether you’re gay or straight, Swank is a blast!
Find them at 24437 Russell Road in Kent, WA 98032 (253) 854-2110.