Thunder Rolls

By Sue Sawyer

Wanna smoke indoors? Yes, anything goes at the Thunderbird Lounge, an Indian-oasis on the corner of Waller and 72nd in Tacoma . It's a smoker's dream since the Thunderbird Lounge has upgraded adding more smoke-eaters in their new ceiling, plus extra dart boards and moving the karaoke stage closer to the kitchen.

Run out of smokes? No worries! They have a cigar and smoke shop right next door. Want a man-sized "Surf & Turf?" The restaurant is next door too.

Thunder rolls and lightning really does strike the lounge stage six nights a week. The Thunderbird is a place to show off your singing talent since the average size of the non-singing audience paying attention can number in the 50's or 60's. And, because of this, Lonman Productions, owned and operated by Lonnie Boyer, has a following of top talent and those who truly love to perform karaoke. It's a real rush to have so many people cheer and applaud.

Lonnie has been at the Thunderbird forever, over a decade, and he's excellent with sound and the ability to keep his rotation moving at a fast pace. There are drawings during the evenings and on Wednesdays through the end of the year, when you sing, your name goes in a hat and at the end of the evening, the one that is drawn will compete New Year's Eve in a sing-off which will pay $125 to the winner, $50 for second place and $25 for third.

Next to the stage is an extremely well-used dance floor.

Debbie Scott ("Before He Cheats"), is a great example of the talent. She won "Best Singer" from Pacific Lanes that qualified her for the Puyallup Fair finals. Kat too ("My Last Breath"), is a masterful performer and has been singing since she was two years old. She's appeared in musical theater roles, plays the keyboard, flute and guitar. By day, she is a purchaser for an avionics company. Her Mom, Pauline ("Bimbo"), has toured with bands as lead singer during her youth. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree in that family!

Tiffany gutted "War Pigs" a hard song to do, and Angel, known for his heavy metal choices, held together the difficult "Cowboys From Hell." Tom, a karaoke host on his night off, did "Stray Cat Strut." There were also Johnny Cash wannabe's in rotation. Denny sang "Sixteen Tons" and Mac chose "Folsom Prison Blues." Paul was a crowd pleaser with "Alice In Chains," Pete wanted everyone to "Come A Little Closer," Randy threw out "Fire" and Mike's, I'll Be" received lots of applause.

On Sunday nights, the mood is more laid back with live Jazz and local musicians. The lounge runs dart tournaments and sponsors sporting groups too. Large TVs are all around the huge room and aplenty for karaoke viewing. The Thunderbird is also a favorite of Tacoma 's Meet Up Group, who gather there on Fridays.

Don't miss out – The Thunderbird Lounge at 7121 Waller Road , Tacoma 253-531-9595.