Signature Fires It Up
Signature Fires It Up
By Ty Hughes
The Signature’s big $1,000 karaoke contest kicked off with a bang on Sunday, June 13. The swanky little ‘L-shaped’ restaurant and bar at the foot of the Space Needle filled up quickly as the start time neared. Admittedly a little nervous about the success of their first contest, Signature’s co-owner Tony’s apprehensions were put to rest when every table filled up with anxious karaoke singers and their friends who came out to support. Suddenly the whole staff was running around to keep up with everybody’s orders and requests. Brian was fantastic behind the bar, and even BoJohn, Signature’s karaoke host was cool as can be, tuning in singers to sound their best as they warmed up for the big contest to start shortly.
Jerry, Shandra, and Aaron sat at the ready, front and center, with judging forms in front of them. They had a pretty good setup, given the space restrictions. The judges table was just inside the front door, where everyone who walked in could sign up and not be overlooked. Plus they had an unobstructed view of the stage set into the bay of plate glass windows jutting out into the busy sidewalk on Seattle’s 1st Avenue N. on Lower Queen Anne.
Spirits were high as Hayley, the first of 13 contestants signed up to compete, took the stage. Hayley’s Heartbreaker by Pat Benatar featured big leg kicks, lots of hip shakin’ and creative moves set the bar ultra-high for those to follow. She had the audience eating out of her hand, resulting in a thunderous applause, whistles and cheering. The contest was off to a fabulous start!
Signature’s spectators enjoyed a special Happy Hour menu of well-priced appetizers and Brian crafted cocktails of every shape, size, color and flavor. The crowd was jazzed, especially after Hayley’s energetic performance.
Next up, BoJohn introduced Rommel, who did a bang-up job on You Raised Me Up. Edwin followed up with Philadelphia Freedom, absolutely stunning! Robin sang Sweet Dreams with her own special flare, before Valerie, Seattle’s social butterfly, got up and struck a pose singing Last Dance.
The Signature’s first karaoke contest had already produced some extremely talented prospects just within the first few contestants! This would be quite a ride. Top prize will be $500 cash to the best singer they can find.
After donning a sexy, yet eclectic costume, Kelli-with-an-“I”, an accomplished host and singer herself, ignited the crowd with her sultry version of White Rabbit. The crowd went nuts.
Clay, the resident stud, all dressed up, performed Travelin’ Band, complete with some gyrations and dance moves many of us had never seen before. He capped off his performance by diving onto both knees and arched back to get the most out of his final note. Anthony stepped up his game to suit the competition thusfar, singing Rebel Yell to absolute perfection and the crowd responded with a frenzy.
These singers/performers were off the hook! What an incredible experience!
Michael got up and sang Slide before giving way to James, who sang a riveting Somebody To Love, leaving us all speechless.
Shawna chimed in with Edwin McCain’s I’ll Be, followed by Lynette, recently named Ohana Idol, who sang Chain Of Fools. And finally, Erica got up and put the finishing touch on a great night of competition with a fun and lighthearted When You’re Good To Mama.
Jerry, Shandra and Aaron shuffled off to the back room to tally the scores while the audience enthusiastically deliberated with their own predictions. Just two of these performers would be chosen to advance, when surely five or six of them were worthy of taking the top prize – all within the very first night! For the opening night, it was announced that Kelli and James would be advancing into the finals.
Just an all-around fabulous night of entertainment at the Signature. If you didn’t make it out for their big debut, it’s not too late. Scoot on over to the Signature for some amazing talent and entertainment this Sunday night. Show starts around 10pm or so. Bring a date. Bring your appetite. But get here early for a good seat, the show will blow your socks off!
