Faces In The Crowd
September 2009
Introducing: Bonnie Geveshausen
Edmonds, Washington
Bonnie, where are you from originally?
I was born here in Edmonds, Washington, but have family all over… Alabama generally.
Zodiac sign? Capricorn. Right on the Cusp actually, December 22!
What do you do for work? I work in retail. Right now I’m an Assistant Manager, but one day hope to be somewhere higher up. It’ll happen.
Stagename/Nickname? Some have called me Shadow (yes, Shadow). Some have called me Country, some just know me as Bunny. But all and all, I’m just Bonnie. I’m kind of a big deal.
How did you hear about the Karaoke and Entertainment Guide? I’m a frequent reader. What else can I do when I’m waiting through all those long rotations to sing?
How long have you been doing and/or enjoying karaoke? About a year now. It’s become an addiction actually, as bad as it may sound. Singing is therapeutic for me. I love the feeling of getting on that stage and just letting go of everything, and expressing life through song. I could be mad, sing an angry song, happy, sing an upbeat song. You get it. It’s been the best 12 or 13 months for me. I’ve met so many people and have learned a whole lot really.
Have you ever hosted? Oh no. Have tried a couple times, but certain people won’t hire women, and certain others are just too good at it. It’s kind of intimidating really.
What type of music do you enjoy singing? All types. Country is a big attraction right now, but some pop, and honestly, I’m getting into this whole classic rock stuff. It’s catchy.
Favorite Song(s) to sing? Right now, Thats What I Like About You (Trisha Yearwood), Don’t Look Back In Anger (Oasis), Jackson ( Johnny and June) and well… Bubbly (Colbie Calliat)
To listen to? Hard To Handle (sung by Shadow Redington), Strokin’ (sung by Caleb Ransom), What Was I Thinkin’ (sung by John Michael McCreary), and of course, By Your Side (sung by Miss Kristine Fields)
Favorite singers or performers? I have no favorites – I love everyone! They all do so great!
CD in your car right now? It doesn’t matter… I can’t listen to it anyway. I have to honk my horn a dozen times to get my radio without any bass to come on.
Do you play any instruments? Not yet, but one day, I will play the guitar, I hope.
Ever sung Professionally? My rubber duckie tells me I’m professional – I believe him.
Do you sing or have you ever sung in any group/bands? No, but I always said when I was in high school, that one day I would be the lead singer of a chick band called “Angel’s with Dirty Faces” Awww, being young.
What’s the largest crowd you have sung in front of? 13th Ave Pub was pretty packed one night, 60 people or more. Hey, the years are young!
Ever entered any karaoke contests? Yes actually. Just made the finals in July for my first karaoke contest at the Skagit. Very excited. Finals in September, stay tuned!
If you could sing with anyone, ever, who would it be? Honestly, John Travolta.
Why? Because I love him. Plain and simple.
Most famous person you’ve ever met? I met Jim Brickman. He’s my favorite Pianist.
How’d it happen? I went to a show he did, and then stood in line for his autograph.
Do you have any musical fantasy(s)? Singing in front of a crowd of 5,000 people holding signs saying I love you Bonnie, and one day singing with Alan Jackson would be nice. Oh a girl can Dream.
Any memorable karaoke stories you would like to share? There’s too many “you-had-to-be-there” stories, but the nights with my best friend Andrea (most know her as Bestie). Any night where everyone laughs and has fun together, which is almost always is a memorable night for me!
What do you enjoy most about Karaoke?
It allows me to blow off steam. I don’t have to pretend to be anyone I’m not up there. I know I have a fan everywhere I go.
Is there anything you dislike about karaoke? Yeah, those people that make their answers in interviews like 20 pages long? The ones where you feel like you’re reading a novel all about their life and everyone in it?
Ummm… this answer may already be taken, but drunk men who invite themselves up to the stage, and when people mess around with the computer while you’re singing and cut your song off RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE. Hate that!
If you could improve the karaoke industry, what would you do? Update the Lake Steven’s computer so I had more songs to sing! (hint-hint)
Which is your favorite Bar/Club? Lake Stevens Buzz Inn Friday and Saturday nights with Shadow! I have recently just begun to attend Thursday nights at the Skagit with Rocky and Kristine and it’s a BLAST!
Whats one thing (non living) that you can’t live without? My phone. I would die.
Whats your favorite Web site? Umm… Myspace, duhhh. Facebook is growin’ on me though.
Tattoos? One on my lower back. It’s a heart with a banner that says Alex (my oldest son). More to come though.
Beverage of choice? Rockstar! Totally. As for alcoholic beverages, that one awesome bartender at Hayley’s Bar and Grill in Everett makes some amazing Key Lime Pie Lemondrops!
Whats the nicest thing you’ve ever done for a stranger? I’ve handed a few people money on the freeway exit before. I’m a nice person, but I do the normal nice things, ya know? Smile at them, hugs, good to see ya’s! Okay yeah, I’ll call ya’s. Stuff like that.
What would your tag line be? Wouldn’t know to spell it but it’s a big loud “HUH” sound! Ask me about it sometime!
Would you like to say anything special to our readers? You all make my karaoke days an awesome experience. As a good man once said, “If life hands you lemons, make lemonade, then find someone who’s life has given them vodka, and have a party.” And don’t forget… YOU’RE IN THE JUNGLE BABY!!! HUH!!!!
August 2009
Introducing: Isaac Barham
Seattle, Washington
Isaac, from where do you hail? Seattle
Zodiac Sign: Taurus
Marital status: In a relationship
What do you do for work? Music
Yeah, what’s your stagename? “The Voice”
How did you get that name?
After performances from people in the know and who’s opinions I respect
How did you hear about the Karaoke and Entertainment Guide?
Have seen it at several karaoke bars
How long have you been enjoying karaoke?
On and off for several years
Have you ever hosted? No
What type of music do you enjoy singing? All kinds
Favorite song(s) to sing:
“Georgia On My Mind” by Ray Charles, “Fly Me To The Moon” by Frank Sinatra, “Let’s Dance” by David Bowie
To listen to: All types of stuff
Favorite singers/performers:
Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble, Jimi Hendrix
CD in your car right now? “It’s Time” by Michael Buble
Do you play any instruments? Vocals, Guitar, Piano
Have you ever sung in any groups/bands?
I have had a few rock bands over the years, but it has been a while
Ever sung professionally? Some no-pay coffee shop gigs
What’s the largest crowd that you have sung in front of? Around 50 people
How did you come to enter the Karaoke World Championship contest?
I had been thinking about entering a karaoke contest and then I saw the poster in Hula Hula’s window! The 2009 KWC is my first karaoke contest.
Did you feel good about your chances going into the Finals? I felt my chances were good because I got a lot of positive feedback. I love to sing and I think people enjoy it with me!
Describe the moment you were announced as KWCUSA Regional winner!
The feeling after winning was great of course. I got a big hug and kiss from my love and felt I did what I set out to do. I was very honored that the judges picked me out of so many really good singers. The runner-up especially is very, very good!
So, now what?
Well, I get a free trip to Ohio for the KWCUSA Finals!
Well best of luck there! Isaac, if you could sing with anyone, ever, who would it be? Frank Sinatra
Why?
He’s the greatest song vocalist in recorded history, in my opinion
Most famous person you’ve ever met?
Marc Cohn (singer of “Walking In Memphis”)
Cool, how did that happen?
Got a backstage pass at his show
Do you have any musical fantasy(s)?
To sing at The Gorge and Carnegie Hall
Ambitious – I like that. Any memorable karaoke stories that you would like to share?
Winning the Seattle Finals of KWC was especially memorable, considering that it was my first win. It was awesome to share that with the love of my life, who was present.
What do you like so much about karaoke?
I love to sing, and I love people so karaoke is GREAT for me!
Is there anything you dislike about karaoke?
I can’t think of anything I don’t like about karaoke, it’s all fun to me.
If you could improve the karaoke industry, what would you do?
I think the karaoke industry is doing great as it is!
Which is your favorite bar/club?
Hula Hula is awesome I think. I dig the people and the host Mikey of Karaokegeek.com is a super cool guy – the best karaoke host I’ve ever encountered.
What’s one thing (non-living) that you can’t live without? Gotta love my coffee!
Favorite Web site?
Yahoo.com. I use it all the time to get news, do email, etc.
Tattoo(s)?
I have three tattoo’s, including a guitar-weilding samurai warrior tattoo that I got on the Miami Ink TV show.
Beverage of choice?
Gatorade (seriously).
What’s the nicest thing you’ve ever done for a stranger?
Bought them a meal
What would your tag line be?
“For God’s glory and our joy”
Would you like to say anything special to our readers?
I hope to have the privilege and joy of singing for you soon!
May 2008
John Reddington
Everett, Washington
Where are you from originally?
I was born in Everett, WA; grew up mostly in Iowa and Missouri; came back to WA to a little town called Everson and graduated high school; joined the United States Army and was stationed throughout the South; finally settling down in Everett, where I have been since 2000.
Zodiac sign: Taurus
Marital status: Single
What do you do for work?
I am a Technical Support Representative at Wave Broadband. I also set up casino environments and deal table games for fundraisers, office parties, graduations and special events. In more recent times, I have also done a little Executive Protection Work.
Stage name/nickname: Shadow
How did you get the nickname?
When I was attending Nooksack (No jokes now, we are all older than this…) I was hanging out with some friends of mine, who were all football players at the time, and they were “laying the game plan” on how to get a date with one of the cheerleaders. At the end of this master plan, I started laughing out loud, and Tom Ackerman, a senior at the time, turns around and says, “Man, where did you come from, I didn’t even see you.” I then replied, “I know. I am just like a shadow. I am always there, just never seen until you notice me.” Ever since then… I just can’t seem to shake it. Oh well.
How did you hear about the Karaoke and Entertainment Guide?
I have been performing karaoke in the Pacific Northwest for about eight years. I believe the first time was through The Rocky & Kristine’s Show when they used to be at the Tulalip Casino.
How long have you been doing or just enjoying karaoke?
I started performing karaoke when I was in the service in 2000. It started as a dare, then became an overwhelming, all consuming, all-be-it healthy addiction.
Have you ever hosted?
No, just been an “Assistant Host.” I am sure there is going to be at least one person that will either be laughing or throwing stuff around… I just don’t know which one yet.
What type of music do you enjoy singing?
Country, Vocal Jazz, Rock & Roll, Metal, Pop, and my absolute favorite music to sing are requests!
Favorite song(s) to sing:
Let Me Love You, Tim McGraw; How Far We’ve Come, Matchbox 20; Paralyzer, Finger Eleven; and Home, Michael Buble.
To listen to:
Let Me Love You, TimMcGraw; I’ve Forgotten You, Rhonda Vincent & The Rage; Home, Michael Buble; and Cocaine Blues, Johnny Cash.
Favorite singers/performers:
Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Hank Williams, Toby Keith, Frank Sinatra, and 28 Minutes (inside joke).
CD in your car right now?
“John’s Favorite Boogie-Woogie Tunes Vol-I” …Crazy Mix CD
Do you play any instruments?
Some trumpet, some piano.
Do you sing or have you ever sung in any groups/bands?
Yes. I have sung with “The Blazing Saddles House Band” once or twice, and with my current band, 28 Minutes.
Ever sung professionally?
Nah, besides the contests I have entered, and the fun I have playing with 28 Minutes, I’m afraid if I sang professionally, then I would have to revoke my rating of a “Professional Amateur.”
What’s the largest crowd that you have sung in front of? Probably either Evergreen Idol Contest or Aquafest Idol Contest.
Ever entered any karaoke contests?
Yes, a few times. Actually, I am kind of making it a habit around contest time.
How much have you won from a contest?
You know, in all honesty, the most I ever walked away from a contest with was probably a free drink and some lady’s phone number. Remember, everyone is a winner when they sing on stage; whether it is a small wedding, or a huge venue.
If you could sing with anyone, ever, who would it be?
Hands down; Johnny Cash. No contest.
Why?
He is my hero. To say that Johnny Cash’s life was filled with hardship was an understatement. He was constantly plagued with guilt and failure for most of his early years, which caused him to make decisions that would later on shape the man he was and would become. He was an addict, a failed husband and father, a struggling musician, and in his fathers eyes, a failed son and brother. I admire the fact that through perseverance, faith, and a good woman’s love, he was able to become a recovering addict, a strong, devoted husband and father, and a strong Christian, never forgetting who he was or where he came from. The ultimate underdog-supporter.
Most famous person you’ve ever met?
Brad Paisley, Montgomery Gentry, Yankee Grey, and Gary Allen. Each at a different time, back before they made it big.
How’d it happen? I When I was in the service, stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, the only thing to do on the weekend was drink yourself silly, but anyone who knows me knows that I don’t drink, so I took up country dancing. Not that line dancing stuff, (although I have been known to cut a rug in the middle of a line dance…) but Western Style dancing, to compliment the Ballroom Dancing I had learned years ago. Anyhoo, I digress, so I was dancing at a club in Fayetteville, called The Palomino, which was the size of a Wal-Mart, where they would have concerts in the club of people that were either just starting out, or people who hadn’t made that big of a splash in Nashville. About once every three months, they would have these HUGE concerts where these folks would play, and since they were just starting out, they were really friendly and approachable. Sometimes I would get to hang out with the band after the show, sometimes; they had to rush to their next gig. Either way it was cool because I got to gain a little insight, and got bragging rights for the rest of my life… LOL
Do you have any musical fantasy(s)?
Yes. Back when I was driving a truck, I used to sing all the time and “alter” songs that I heard. Not change, per se, just add to. For example, back in 1981, Merle Haggard wrote a song called “Are the Good Times Really Over.” To me, this song was brilliantly written, asking the question of whether our country’s “good times” are over due to the fact that the dollar wasn’t silver, Elvis was dead, Vietnam had raged on, etc. The “Hag” did an excellent job of bringing awareness of how he felt that this country had changed; but since 1981, this country, hell this world has changed. So, in respects to the way this world has changed, I added two verses, which brought the song to current times. I guess you could say that my “Musical Fantasy” is to perform that song with Merle Haggard.
Any memorable karaoke stories that you would like to share?
Every time I am on stage, it is a memorable experience.
What do you enjoy about karaoke?
Well, if you couldn’t tell, I am kind of an attention-whore, so allowing me the ability, at least in my own mind, to say, “Hey, look at me!” is probably the thing I like most about it. Uh… I mean… I enjoy the ability to touch others with my interpretation of… No, I can’t lie – I enjoy the attention. But the thing I love most is when that one person goes up there, night after night, singing their own dissertation of their favorite song, oblivious to the fact that others may think they have no talent. They just don’t care. Trust me, you can’t buy that kind of self confidence. I love it!
Is there anything you dislike about karaoke?
Well, lets see, we’ll start with the hosts: Hosts who are drunk, rude, take 20 minute breaks, or make a three person rotation last an hour. Singers: again, drunk, rude, “diva’d,” singers who hit the top of, scream into, or use the microphone as an extension of the part of their body they feel insecure about. Patrons: who tear apart the book, waste slips, spill drinks on singers, equipment or others, and who just decide to come up to an uninvited microphone and do their dissertation of the song you are singing.
If you could improve the karaoke industry, what would you do?
Well, for starters, I would make every song that ever came out available on CD+G, and then I would open my own karaoke bar 24-7. What if I had no patrons, you ask? Fine, I’ll be the headlining act. I love the attention.
Which is your favorite bar/club? I’ll list them alphabetically: 13 Ave Pub, Blazing Saddles, Buzz Inn, Danny’s Midway, Frasier’s, Highway 9 Casino, Little Red Hen, Skagit Valley Casino, and the Timberline Café.
What’s one thing (non-living) that you can’t live without?
The woman who taught me the difference between needs and wants; “A.”
What’s your favorite Website?
www.myspace.com
Tattoo(s)?
No. No piercings either.
Beverage of choice?
Hot water, chunk of lemon when singing. Scotch that’s older than me when I’m relaxing, or Guinness when hanging out.
What’s the nicest thing you’ve ever done for a stranger?
I stopped in the middle of a rainstorm for a disabled woman once on the side of the road with a flat tire. After changing her tire, she gave me 20 bucks. Now, before you start thinking I am a nice guy, looking back, I did it for the money.
What would your tag line be?
“You’ve got a pattern; the other guy had an idea.” “With the right fulcrum, you can move the world.” And, “Sometimes, sacrifices must be made in the pursuit of a common good.”
Would you like to say anything special to our readers?
Have fun, sing loud, and vote “Shadow Reddington for President; 2016!”
April 2008