"SOMEWHERE OUT THERE"

An activity I've delayed pursuing is learning where life has taken many of my friends from Karaoke lounges. Probably two of the most colorful careers are those of David Sherry and CeCe Taylor. Inasmuch as I was out of town and unfortunately unable to attend David's latest show, here are excerpts from a review written by Brenda Lively, an artist and freelance writer from San Marcos.

"David Sherry is the consummate professional. His stage presence and patter is unsurpassed by even the biggest entertainers. On July 12th and 13th, 'DIAMOND IS FOREVER!', the exciting Neil Diamond Tribute Show that has been touring the U.S. since December 2002, was staged locally at The New Wharf Patio Theatre, in San Marcos, California.

"David, just in from Anchorage, Alaska, where he performed in concert as the opener for the soulful and talented recording artist, Al Wilson, said that he was excited to be doing his new show in the San Diego area for the first time."

"Dressed in sequins, and coiffed in the late 70's to early 80's Neil Diamond style, 'Ultimate Neil' took the stage and proceeded to romance a sold-out audience from the very first note, with the phenomenal sound, style, and feel of Neil Diamond. As David put it, he is not a Neil Diamond impersonator, he is a dyed-in-the-wool Neil Diamond fan."

"David's repertoire covered every facet of Diamond's career, from the early 60's hits through 'The Jazz Singer' chart-toppers of the 80's. This was a real tribute as David Sherry's love of this great singer, songwriter, entertainer and his timeless music, makes him not a cardboard impersonator of Neil Diamond but a true 'impressionist.' Diamond IS Forever!"

"To add to the magic David brought on the glamorous vocalist CeCe Taylor (of Big Daddy Orchestra fame) who had opened the show and exhilarated the audience with her vocal range and lively performance of songs by Nora Jones, Etta James and others, to do a sizzling 'Soolaimon' followed by a stunning rendition of the classic Barbra-Neil chart-topper, 'You Don't Bring Me Flowers."

Cece began singing in Karaoke lounges several years ago, and she and David have been "regulars" at Skies, Quails, and Welk Resort, to name a few. She has been the featured vocalist with Barry Allen Cohen's Big Daddy Orchestra for the past two years.

Another friend is Fredie Arroyo who, along with her business as a Travel Planner and Realtor, is still thrilling audiences with her versatile singing style from San Diego to San Clemente. Among other Karaoke venues, she's become a regular at Johnny Stewart's popular show at San Giorgio Lucano's Restaurant in Vista.

Alyssa and Mike are busy with showcases at North Bar, as well as singing at Nicole's popular show at the Comstock in Escondido.

But now, let me give you examples of how versatile the Karaoke Show has become over the last few years.

On a lovely summer evening in June at Glen Eden Sun Club in Corona, a Memorial Reception was held for Susan Zimmer-Birchard, one of the long-time members. Rod Marshall and Jamie Heth complied with Susan's wishes for a fun time of keyboard and harmonica selections, followed by an evening of Karaoke singing and dancing. Although they were not singers, Susan and Larry were a part of that all-important audience.

Another beautiful evening in August was the setting for a time of happy remembrance for another lovely lady. Bev Witt, with her husband John, were great audience supporters of Rocky Baldino's Karaoke show at the Welk Resort in Escondido. Maryann Sidorsky. sang "You'll Never Walk Alone" with backup by Wayne Orlicki. Other friends provided musical tributes as well.

What a fine tribute to two lovely ladies.

To me this makes a statement of how important this seemingly "just for entertainment" activity has become meaningful to such a vast extent in our society today. Maybe we're living in the "Best of Times" (from La Cage Aux Folles) ­ what do you think?

I always appreciate receiving your thoughts and ideas. "You can reach me by --- E-mail" at mwfritzy@san.rr.com.

info: johnny@sandiegoscene.com
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