Recap of Andrew Martin's '70s Revolution Show

George Sicker, singer with the Rev-Tones describes Andrew Martin as “one talented individual with an incredible voice” who is a “terrific person” and “humble kind of guy” (Introducing:  Andrew Martin, SIDEBURNS Magazine, October 18th, 2019). 

Andrew Martin, photographer John Rowland, and George Sicker. Photo Credit: A. Martin.

Those of us who were at Andrew’s ‘70s Revolution show on Sunday, June 2nd, 2018, would agree full-heartedly with George’s comments.  Andrew Martin has been blessed with a voice that has such a range that one wonders if there is anything he cannot sing to perfection.  A powerhouse on stage, after the show, Andrew showed his “terrific and humble” side, by spending time chatting with fans and friends, thanking them for coming to his show, signing autographs, and posing for many photos.  Asked by one fan to sing a gospel song acapella, Andrew sang “How Great Thou Art” so beautifully that more than one person wiped away a tear. 

Singer Andrew Martin. Photo Credit: Kimberley Clark.

Sunday’s show, as indicated by the title ‘70s Revolution, was filled with music from the 1970s.  The song choices in both sets brought back so many great memories.  Andrew covered songs from the best ‘70’s groups and solo acts, including the iconic Eagles, and the legendary Sir Elton John.  Asking the audience if anyone liked disco music, Andrew was surprised by the many cheers.  He laughingly commented, “Usually I receive one timid ‘I do’ from an audience.  It appears Niagara Falls is a disco city!”  And with that said, Andrew went on to perform KC and the Sunshine band tunes.  Andrew also performed a melange of theme songs from popular 1970’s sitcoms, including WKRP in Cincinnati, Happy Days, Welcome Back, Kotter, and The Jeffersons, which brought back warm memories for many. 

Back-up singers Anita Halfpenny and Susan Walsh enjoy a moment on stage with Andrew Martin. Photo Credit: Kimberley Clark.

Andrew was generous in his praise of his band members and singers:  Drummer and vocalist Tyler Stacey, bass player Sylvain Gagnon, guitarist and vocalist Derek Morris, pianist Sam McNichols, keyboard player and vocalist, Ben Vandergaast, and background vocalists, Susan Walsh and Anita Halfpenny.  In his introduction of the band, Andrew jokingly pointed out for the benefit of the ladies in the audience the marital status of band members, specifically noting that that Sylvain is “available”.  Adding that he, himself, could be available, Andrew quickly retracted his statement saying his wife, Janet, was in the audience.  It was all in good fun.  Talented singer and guitarist, Derek Morris, entertained the audience with two songs:  “No Matter What You Are” by Badfinger, and “Swingtown” by the Steve Miller Band.   Commenting on keyboard player and vocalist Ben Vandergaast’s stylish red shoes, Andrew introduced Ben’s Elton John solo, “Bennie and the Jets” which delighted the audience.  And when Tyler Stacey sang “Some Kind of Wonderful” by Grand Funk Railroad, he had us out of our seats dancing.  When Andrew joined in at the end of the song for a final “pretty” note, Tyler bowed on hands and knees to the master vocalist.  The camaraderie that exists between Andrew, band members, and singers is evident on stage.  There was lots of good natured joking that provided a great sense of fun for all during the show.

For me, as the editor of an Elvis Tribute Artist magazine, Andrew’s medley of Elvis Presley songs that ended his second set was the topping on a fabulous afternoon of entertainment.  Earlier in the show, Andrew sang the crowd pleasing, interactive, “Sweet Caroline”, a Neil Diamond song recorded by Elvis for his On Stage album; and he teased with a few bars of an Elvis gospel song. Andrew also sang “Never Been to Spain” by Three Dog Night which was recorded by Elvis for his 1972 As Recorded at Madison Square Garden album.  With his award winning voice, Andrew paid great tribute to the King of Rock and Roll.  Leaving the stage to a standing ovation, Andrew was encouraged to reappear and sing one last song.  Breaking away from the ‘70s,  Andrew  chose Journey’s 1981 hit “Don’t Stop Believing” to end the show.      

Photos of the ‘70s Revolution Show

Thank you, Kimberley Clark for some of your photos used in this album.

I had a chance to speak with some very nice people before and after the show.  Debi Czerewaty, SIDEBURNS Magazine winner of two tickets that were generously donated by Andrew Martin Music, was very excited to see the ‘70s Revolution Show and bring along her friend. Cambridge, Ontario couple, Dorine and Ozzie Bertin, planned their weekend getaway to the Falls so they could see Andrew’s show.  Hugh Jefferies and Kimberley Clark, who sat beside me and took many great photos and videos, plan on going to Andrew’s Crooners Christmas show in December.  One of my favourite photos from the day is of Hamiltonian Cathy Wood taken with Andrew.  Her smile says it all; she had a great time!  Cathy’s husband, Bob, who is a Beatles fan, said he really enjoyed the show.   Andrew Martin fans, Debbie Snow and Lorraine Eisan, from Brampton, Ontario, travel far and wide to see Andrew’s shows: Guelph, Peterborough, and on Sunday, Niagara Falls. Without hesitation, they both stated, “We love Andrew!” Also at Andrew’s show on Sunday were Laura Maryniak and Rose Sgambato who are followers of Andrew.  And seeing Andrew for the first time were Evelyn Perry, Gigi Collucci, Joyce Barnes, and Laura Shand who saw Andrew’s show listing on his Facebook page.  It was so nice seeing SB Mag’s followers, Marnie Butler, and her husband, Jeff, Lynn and Gord McNeil, and Pam Capp and her sister, Marsha.  Andrew’s cousin, Marjorie and her friend surprised Andrew by coming to his show (third photo right in the fourth row in the album below). A very nice man named Rick had the most incredible Elvis belt that he made from pull tabs which he decorated to resemble an Elvis belt.  And if you want to reach Graceland in a hurry, Rick can tell you the 1-800 number off the top of his head! 

If you did not have the good fortune of seeing Andrew Martin’s amazing show on Sunday, Andrew has a show in July and one in December.  Information can be found in the flyers that follow.  A 20% discount is being offered for a limited time for the Crooners Christmas show on December 6th, 2019, so act quickly to secure a good seat.  Any show you see with Andrew Martin will be an incredible experience!

Fan Photos

Upcoming Shows

ETA Matt Cage and singer/musician Derek Morris. Photo Credit: Anita Halfpenny.

Singer and musician, Derek Morris, also manages and performs with the Celtic group, Fiddleheads from Belleville, Ontario.  Derek is also the brother-in-law of one our favourite ETAs, Matt Cage.  Clips of Derek performing as Johnny Cash in Matt’s shows can be found on YouTube. Andrew’s background singers, Anita Halfpenny and Susan Walsh, have also performed with Andrew Martin in For Love Of A Song, a group originally from Belleville that puts on great shows organized by Susan Walsh.  According to the For the Love of a Song Facebook page, the ladies will be “joining Andrew Martin at a couple of his concerts” and they “will be back November 2019”. Anita Halfpenny also sang back-up for Matt Cage with her band DejaVu. Derek will be performing with Matt on June 12th, 2019, in Concert on the Bay:  Elvis and Johnny at Zwick’s Park, Belleville, Ontario from 6:30pm to 8:30pm.  Admissions is free!

In the ETA world, someone always seems to be connected to someone else we know.  I first saw Andrew Martin in 2015 when he was singing backup for ETA Steve Kabakos (aka Steve Michaels).  When Steve left the stage to change, Andrew, as part of a quartet, sang Elvis’s much loved gospel songs.  During Andrew’s solo, my daughter and I were awed by his voice.  Andrew, who was best man at Steve’s wedding, is the godfather of Steve’s children. With his best friend Steve’s encouragement, Andrew returned to performing in his own shows. 

Adding another link in the ETA chain…when Steve was not able to perform in American Icons due to another commitment, he called on Matt Cage, who has worked with many of the same people as Andrew, to play the role of Elvis. “But what about Andrew,” you might ask, “Would he ever consider filling in as and ETA for his friend, Steve Michaels?”  Andrew’s humorous answer to this reasonable question is, “You will never see me in a bedazzled ‘onesie’!”

Coming up are two shows you will definitely want to see:  Matt Cage and The Casino Brothers in the Elvis 68 to 77 Concert on Friday, July 12th, 2019, and Andrew Martin with his band in his Decades Show on Saturday, July 13th, 2019, both at the Belleville Waterfront and Ethnic Festival, Zwick’s Park.  Also appearing on Friday night, just before Matt and the The Casino Brothers will be the talented singer Anita Halfpenny and her band DejaVu. Hope to see you at these fantastic shows!

Photo Album

Many of the photos in this album were previously posted in Andrew’s interview. Photo Credits: A. Martin, C. MacArthur.

Queen Street Area of Niagara Falls

Outside the Seneca Queen Theatrre waiting for the box office to open at 2. Photo Credit: C. M.

I would like to close by talking about the Seneca Queen Theatre and the interesting Queen Street area of Niagara Falls, Ontario.  When going to a theatre in a place you have not been before, it is nice to know where you can park and where you can have a bite to eat locally before arriving.

I have been to Niagara Falls on many, many occasions in my lifetime, but the day of Andrew’s show was only the second time I have been to the Queen Street area of Niagara Falls, ON.  A few years ago, by chance, I found my way to the area during a lively, and very crowded, community festival on Labour Day weekend.  I don’t recall even seeing the theatre on that particular day. On the Sunday afternoon of the June 2nd show, the Queen Street area, which is only a 10 minute drive from Casino Niagara, was not busy at all. It was very quiet, and the theatre was very easy to find.

The Seneca Theatre  was built in 1941 with a seating capacity for 911. It was originally owned by Famous Players. The theatre hosted many events over the years, including the Canadian premiere of Marilyn Monroe's film Niagara on January 28, 1953. In 1984, Cineplex Odeon took over the building, and the theatre was made into two cinemas. Cinema 1 had 569 seats, and Cinema 2 seated 211, providing a combined seating capacity for 780 patrons.

A large, illuminated marquee was part of the original façade, and the upper part of still exhibits art deco styling. The interior was decorated throughout with native Seneca motifs such as birch bark-cast plaster walls, ceremonial masks and belt designs. The theatre is hoping to restore the masks and marquee in the future.

The Seneca Queen Theatre, today, holds 308 comfortable seats, each with a perfect view of the stage. The Seneca Queen is fully licensed.  Parking on Sundays is free in a municipal lot behind the theatre. 

Floors in the Queen Bee Cafe are original to the building. Photo Credit: C. MacArthur.

Open for business on the day of the show, were three notable establishments on Queen Street:  The Paris Crepes Café, the Queen Bee Café, and the Cigar Experience (definitely not promoting smoking, but the building is beautiful).  I remember the Paris Crepes Café from my previous visit, and it reputedly continues to offer great food.  I was told by locals that the Queen Bee Café was a good choice for tea; so on Monday morning, I dropped in for a light breakfast. For a reasonable price of $6.37, I enjoyed a bacon, cheese, and bacon bagel and a large Earl Grey tea.  I was told by management that the Queen Bee is getting a makeover this week. I hope they keep the integrity of this awesome building in tact.  The floors and ceilings are original to the building and are quite spectacular.

If you are in the downtown Queen area during the week, there is free 90 minute parking on the street.  If you do visit, take note of the street signs that arch over the streets, and the nice little park with a fountain by the NF City Hall.

I hope to see you all the next time Andrew Martin has a show at the Seneca Queen. You will enjoy an awesome show in an awesome theatre in an interesting area of Niagara Falls.  Until next time, cheers! C.M.

Recap of the Casablanca Winery Inn Show

Article

“Outstanding” is the word that best describe last night’s show at the Casablanca Winery Inn.  Sandra Gold, president of Stars on Stage Inc., has a reputation for booking the best tribute artists in the business, and last night was no exception. 

Sandra Gold, Ultimate ETA Gordon Hendricks, and Carolyn MacArthur. Photo Credit: L. MacArthur for SIDEBURNS Magazine.

Ultimate ETA, Gordon Hendricks, has a number of fan clubs worldwide with a fan base that has grown exponentially since he first appeared years ago on the UK talent show, Stars in Their Eyes, a competition that he won by a landslide.  They say that winning the title of Ultimate in Memphis, Tennessee, allows an ETA to write their own ticket when it comes to how they wish to perform.  No longer fettered by the demands of competition, ETAs are free to explore other options in their tribute.  Gordon Hendricks has recorded updated classic Elvis songs on his two CDs, “Stripped Back” and “Unplugged”, and performs as himself in sold out performances, most recently, and for the first time in Canada, in Tweed, Ontario.   Those who attended his “Unplugged” show in Tweed rave about his performance.  Included at the end of this article is a brilliant video of “Unplugged” that was taped in the UK. Last night, however, at the Casablanca Winery Inn, it was classic Elvis all the way.

Ultimate ETA, Gordon Hendricks. Photo Credit: Lisa MacArthur

There was a vibe of excitement the moment we walked into the lobby of the Inn. Sandra, Rita, and Sue were on hand to greet people and assign seating. With everyone seated, dinner was served at 6:30 pm as scheduled.  This is my third time dining at the Casablanca Winery Inn, and each time the food and service have been impeccable.  With dinner over, and dishes cleared, the evening’s entertainment began with Marcus Well’s tribute to Sir Elton John.  Looking splendid in his red shirt, black pants and Elton jacket, Marcus obviously felt the same vibe as the audience.  I have enjoyed Marcus’s tribute many times, but last night there was something extra special in his performance. 

Marcus Wells as Sir Elton John. Photo Credit: Lisa MacArthur

Singing all the favourite Elton John songs, the most touching moment came with his comments just before singing “Candle in the Wind”.  Marcus introduced the song by reminding us that a woman who left us far too soon, would now have been the grandmother of four children.  Marcus, of course, was talking about Princess Diana and the recent arrival of little Prince Archie.  The song took on new meaning as we all reflected on Marcus’s singing of a song that will forever be associated with England’s Rose.  To end his set, Marcus picked up the tempo with “Crocodile Rock”.  It was a great set for Marcus, and it took me back two years ago when I first met him at the same venue, and in a show that also featured Gordon Hendricks.  I have been a fan of Marcus and his Elton John tribute ever since.

Ultimate ETA Gordon Hendricks poses with Wendy King. Photo Credit: C. MacArthur.

As with all ETA shows, the music that preceded Gordon’s appearance on stage last night created a buzz of anticipation from the very first note.  The excitement in the room was palpable.  With all eyes on the only entrance to the room, Gordon entered amidst rounds of cheers and clapping.  Dressed in his black leather suit, Gordon Hendricks looked every bit the award winning artist we have all come to know and love.  One of Gordon’s most endearing qualities, besides a voice that is a cloned version of the King’s, is his connection to his audience.  Success has not diminished his appreciation for each and every fan who attends his shows.  Some faces Gordon knows because they come to every one of his shows, and he made special comments and gestures to them last night; but he also circulated several times during his two sets to meet and greet with fans at tables around the large banquet room.  Gordon’s performance was an ETA fan’s wish come to true.  Singing familiar songs, and adding a few lesser know ones to keep his set fresh, Gordon wowed everyone.  The ballads, for many, were the best part of the evening because it was during these tender songs that the true remarkability of how much Gordon sounds like Elvis could be heard. I have always marvelled at the connection fans feel for certain ETAs, but last night I experienced a revelation as I watched true Elvis fans like Wendy King, Elaine Adie, Sandra Gold, and many others nod in agreement and understanding of Gordon’s comments on what Elvis has meant to him throughout his life.  It is an appreciation that goes much deeper than just enjoying the music of Elvis Presley.  Wendy King said in one of her blogs that when she was young, she felt Elvis was her “friend”. It is a beautiful sentiment that I could see on the faces of many last night. 

Tiffany Deriveau as Tina Turner. Photo Credit: Lisa MacArthur

After a brief intermission, the next performer to take the stage was Tiffany Deriveau with her tribute to Tina Turner.  It was my first time seeing Tiffany, and I was blown away by her performance!  Energy to spare, not only did Tiffany pay great tribute to Tina Turner with her look, but her moves and voice were superb!  My daughter, Lisa, with a tear in her eye, summed up the performance by saying, “She gave every ounce of her being in that performance.”   Buck O’Dell in appreciation asked Sandra, “Where did you find her!”  The entire audience, who agreed en masse that it was an unbelievable performance, gave Tiffany a standing ovation.  I hope to see Tiffany again in future shows. 

Gordon raises a glass of wine presented to him by fan Dot Farr. Photo Credit: C. MacArthur.

Gordon’s second set began with music heard around the world in the televised “Aloha from Hawaii”.   The “scarf set”, as I like to call it, is my favourite part of the show because I really enjoy seeing the happy faces of those who receive scarves.  Last night, Gordon, with the help of Rita Caruso, made the rounds handing out scarves to lucky fans.  Two of our favourite followers of SIDEBURNS Magazine, Cathy Wood and Dot Farr, had their wishes fulfilled when Gordon presented them each with a scarf and a kiss on the cheek.  Anyone who has received a scarf from a favourite ETA understands how special that moment feels for a fan.  I remember at the first Casablanca show that Dot, whom I did not know at the time, gave Gordon a glass a wine while he was performing on stage.  Last night, Dot repeated the gesture, and warming her heart, Gordon remembered her doing the same thing two years ago.  It was one beautiful moment in an evening that contained many more. 

Tammy, far right, enjoyed the evening with her sister and brother-in-law. Photo Credit: C. MacArthur.

Celebrating her 40th birthday, Amy was asked on stage to dance with Gordon.  Tammy, whose birthday is in July, was treated to last night’s show as an early birthday gift from her sister and brother-in-law, so she could see her “boyfriend” while he was in Canada.  Tammy was invited to dance on stage with Gordon to her favourite song, “Burning Love”.  Gordon also announced that Fred Coulas, whom he had chatted with in the lobby, was also celebrating his birthday.  Asking Fred to stand, Gordon sang a few chords of “Happy Birthday”.

During his last set, Gordon talked about his early childhood and how he used to watch Elvis movies with his Nan.  He recalled how his eleven sisters would ask their “little Elvis” to entertain them as they got ready for their dates.  Laughing, Gordon added, “Now they pay to see me perform.”  Remembering how it felt winning the Ultimate title, Gordon shared that he felt like a five year old kid again jumping on his bed with joy, having just realized his childhood dream.

Ultimate ETA Gordon Hendricks poses with Will Austin and his sisters. Photo Credit: Carolyn MacArthur.

With great generosity in sharing his stellar vocals and moves, his time, his stories, and his stage, Gordon, closed with “I Can’t Help Falling in Love with You”. It was all, and more, that any fan could ask of an ETA.  Sandra, knowing the crowd would relish one last song, called all three performers to the stage for a rousing rendition of “Viva Las Vegas”.  After the show, Gordon greeted fans in the lobby, rounding out an unforgettable evening. 

Editor’s Note: Ultimate ETA Gordon Hendricks will be appearing at the ScotiaBank Convention Centre on Saturday, June 1st, 2019. In November, 2019, Sandra will host another great Casablanca show. More details TBA.

Photo Album

A Special Photo for Gordon

Gordon has requested a copy of the photo below taken by Lisa MacArthur. I believe it is the artsy look of the photo that Gordon particularly likes. It resembles paintings favoured by rock artists for their album covers.

Videos

Recap of ETA Garry Wesley's Show

Memorable Monday

Frances and Bertha. Photo Credit: C. MacArthur.

A few weeks ago when Frances, our ETA friend and fan, mentioned that she had purchased tickets to see ETA Garry Wesley at East Plains United Church in Burlington, Ontario, I was dumbfounded.  What were the odds that the same ETA, from the state of Wisconsin, whom ETA Donny Edwards mentions in his upcoming interview as giving him sound advice when they first met in 2003, would be appearing at a local church!  Fantastic!  I wanted very much to meet Garry in person and ask him a few questions about his career and his connection to Donny.

I checked the online church calendar, but could not find ticket information.  I drove by the church on several occasions after my conversation with Frances, but there was no announcement of an upcoming Elvis show on the outdoor bulletin board, just notices of more current events. 

Day before the show. Photo Credit: C. MacArthur.

On Sunday afternoon, May 26th, 2019—the day before the show, I was driving by the church and I saw the sign announcing Garry Wesley’s show.  Jim McMaster, a member of the church, board member, and on that day, church groundskeeper, suggested a suitable time for me to drop by the night of the show.  I wish to thank Jim for his help, and for taking the photo on the left that I posted on Facebook. 

Promo photo of ETA Garry Wesley.

Prior to going to the show, I did some research on Garry Wesley’s ETA career and found some interesting facts.  The Necedah, Wisconsin native is a multiple and international award-wining Elvis tribute artist, who was honored with the Heart of the King Lifetime Achievement Award in July, 2013, in Las Vegas.  In addition to receiving the award, Garry was given the opportunity to perform on one of Elvis’s most noted stages, the Las Vegas Hilton (now known as the Las Vegas Hotel and Casino).  In an edited* article written by Ashley Bray for the Star-Times on August 2nd, 2013, Garry describes the entire performance day as an amazing experience, made even more so, when he wound up using the same dressing room that Elvis used -- by accident:

“I went downstairs to look for a dressing room and there was one full of people, so I thought, ‘I’ll go find my own.’  So I went into another dressing room and dropped my clothes off and went back upstairs and did sound-check,” Wesley said.

After the sound-check was over, Wesley asked one of the employees which dressing room had belonged to Elvis.  It turned out to be the one Wesley had chosen.

ETA Garry Wesley pauses for a photo before his show at East Plains United Church. Photo Credit: C. MacArthur.

“So that was really cool…I got to use Elvis’s dressing room,” Wesley said.

It’s only fitting that Wesley received the award for lifelong accomplishments; he has been an Elvis fan since he was a young boy, and he’s been paying homage to the King for 33 years.

“It started when I was 19 years old,” said Wesley, who at that time, was living in Milwaukee.  A couple of his friends invited him to a costume party for Halloween at a club in the city and suggested he dress as Elvis, since he was such a big fan.

When they got to the door, the man working the entrance simply assumed they were a part of the live music that night, rather than party goers.

“He said, ‘Hey you’re late!’  He thought we were a part of the show, so we got free cover charge,” Wesley said.  He actually ended up singing on stage later that night, and was immediately offered a gig by the owner of the club.  Before he knew it, Wesley was impersonating Elvis every weekend.

“It really took on a life of its own,” he said. (*Edited by C. MacArthur.)

ETA Donny Edwards. Photo Credit: Donna Edwards.

In the same year, 2013, which marked his 25th annual tribute show, Garry was inducted into the Elvis Tribute Artist Hall of Fame in Memphis--a fitting tribute for an ETA with the longest-running Elvis tribute show in Memphis.

Over the years, Garry travelled to many parts of the world performing his tribute to Elvis and sang with some of the same people who shared a stage with Elvis. And now, thanks to the efforts of some very nice church ladies, I was going to meet the highly decorated and seasoned performer in person. 

Garry was warm and welcoming, and very relaxed.  He knew of Donny’s interview through a message from Donny’s wife and business partner, Donna.  When I asked how an ETA from Wisconsin found his way to Burlington, Ontario, he said it was through the efforts of his Canadian booking agent, Nigel Husing.  And while Garry went to dress for his show, I had a chance to ask Nigel how he first met Garry. 

ETA Garry Wesley with Nigel Husing, his booking agent for his shows in Canada. Photo Credit: C. MacArthur.

Before becoming a booking agent, Nigel Husing owned a record store in Burlington, Ontario, called “Music Village”.   Nigel’s interest in music started early with his job at “Melody Lane” when he was 16.  Fifteen years ago, Nigel was the booking agent for country singer, Terry Sumsion.  After Terry’s passing, Nigel wanted to continue in the business, so one evening after enjoying Bernie Jessome’s Roy Orbison tribute show, Nigel approached the artist from Ottawa, Ontario, and asked if he had a booking agent.   Bernie Jessome suggested to his new agent that he might consider bringing Elvis tribute artist, Garry Wesley, to Canada.  Nigel wasn’t sure at the time that he wanted to book ETAs, but agreed to see Garry at the Hill Top Restaurant in Oshawa in 2006.  Bernie said, “Just listen to him.”  Nigel confided that once he heard Garry sing “Hurt”, he didn’t need to hear more.  Nigel has been doing all Garry’s bookings in Canada for the past 12 years.  A friendship has developed over the years, and Garry stays with Nigel and his wife, Bev, in Colborne, Ontario, when he is touring in Canada. 

Songstress, Donna Brooks. Photo Credit: C. MacArthur.

Travelling on Monday night with Garry, Nigel and Bev, was singer Donna Brooks, who was the opening act for both of Garry’s sets. In her first set, Donna delighted the audience by singing songs of popular female country singers, Patsy Cline, Lorretta Lynn, and Tammy Wynette, to name a few.  In her second set, Donna added Anne Murray’s song, ”You Needed Me”,  The Judd’s “Grandpa Tell Me About the Good Old Days”, and Olivia Newton’s “Let Me Be There”, which I am sure many at the show did not know was also recorded by Elvis Presley in 1974.  It was, however, an original song that Donna’s 102 year old grandmother wrote in the 1960s that moved me the most.  Not yet recorded, Donna sang “Tears are Not the Answer” acapella.  The words of the song carry a beautiful, positive message, and Donna sang it beautifully. 

ETA Garry Wesley making sure all is ready for his show. Photo Credit: C. MacArthur.

Following a short intermission, Garry, dressed smartly in a blue jacket, black pants, and cream silk shirt, started his first set with “Blue Suede Shoes”, followed by the 1956 classic ballad, “I Want You, I Need You, I Love”.  Singing like a multi-award winning artist, Garry’s performance was well received by the audience who was mostly made up of church members, and not the ETA fans we are used to seeing at Elvis tribute shows.  Many were seeing their very first ETA show, and some admitted that they weren’t Elvis fans and came for other reasons.  Joan Harris confided, “I am not an Elvis fan.  I like Patsy Cline.” But when specifically asked about Garry’s performance, Joan added, “I like it.”  Bob Hinchcliffe, when asked about the show, responded with, “I am enjoying it!”   And Barbara Taylor was positive in her comments, “It is my first time seeing an ETA.  I am not familiar with all the songs, but I am loving the Gospel!  I also like Donna Brooks."   Garry was gaining fans with each song.

Morgan Perigo, his friend, and Janet and Ian Farwell. Photo Credit: C. MacArthur.

ETA devotees know that certain songs belong with certain costumes in an ETA performance, which also dictates the set list for the recorded music; but some members of Monday night’s audience called out requests for songs that belong in the “jumpsuit” decade.  The affable and professional Garry, dressed in ‘50s/’60s attire, answered the request to sing the “In the Ghetto”, which was released on April 14th, 1969.  Garry told an interesting story about the song and the song writer, Mac Davis.  “In the Ghetto” was first offered to Sammy Davis Jr. who said, “Give it to Elvis.”   Elvis cried when he first heard the words, and originally he sang it with a very quick tempo so he wouldn’t break down and cry while singing.  “In the Ghetto” went on to be one of Elvis’s biggest hits.  Sammy Davis Jr. later recorded the song for his album, Something for Everyone, which was released in 1970.  Mac Davis, who had long been retired, made an appearance on the 2019 Elvis All-Star Tribute Show, starring Blake Shelton, Jennifer Lopez, Josh Groban, Adam Lambert, Ed Sheeran, John Fogerty, along with other pop stars; and now Mac Davis is all set to go back on tour.

Bob Hinchcliffe and Joan Harris. Photo Credit: C. MacArthur.

After the beautifully sung, and very solemn song, Garry performed a medley of “Heartbreak Hotel/Hound Dog/All Shook Up” which received exuberant applause from the audience.  Garry, who performs in a lot of churches and legions in North America, told the audience that he is never sure how certain songs will be received.  He said he finds that in Canada, church audiences enjoy rock and roll songs as much as ballads and gospel.  He then went on to give a rousing performance of “Jail House Rock”.  After singing “Power of My Love” recorded in 1969 for the From Elvis in Memphis album, Garry quizzed the audience as to how many knew that song.  I think maybe only Frances, Bertha, and I raised our hands…lol.

L to R: June, Heather, Blanche, Barry, Alice, Rob, Barb, Doreen (sitting down), and Shelley enjoyed a great evening at ETA Garry Wesley’s show. Photo Credit: C. MacArthur.

Garry closed the set with “If I Can Dream” from the ’68 Comeback Special.  During intermission, I had an opportunity to chat with some audience members about their feelings about the first set.  Ian Farwell, who was with his wife, Janet, declared, “I love it!”  Morgan Perigo said, “It is very enjoyable.”  Blanche Keating, a big Elvis fan, who was at the show with her daughter, Heather Court, and other family members, was resolute in her feelings about Garry’s first set, “Beautiful and fantastic!  It is my first time seeing Garry, and in some songs when I closed my eyes, I heard Elvis.”  Heather, in good fun, added, “I caught Mom trying to get a look at Garry’s hips!”

Heather Court jokes with her mother, Blanche Keating. Photo Credit: C. MacArthur.

Following Donna Brooks’ much anticipated second set, the familiar “2001 Space Odyssey” announced Garry’s return to the stage for his second set.  Dressed in his black jumpsuit and looking like the ‘ultimate’ ETA performer he is, Garry sang many songs from the Aloha from Hawaii concert.   There were several times during the evening that gave me chills, but none so much as Garry’s singing of “Amazing Grace” which took me from chills to tears. Garry closed the evening with “I Can’t Help Falling in Love with You.”  The audience responded to an unforgettable evening of entertainment with a standing ovation. 

Group photo. Photo Credit: C. MacArthur.

Garry stayed for a meet and greet, and I was able to take a lot of photos of Garry with fans.  Petra Masirevic, pleased with her light blue scarf that Garry had given her, was adamant that Garry should book a show at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre.  Garry does have more Ontario bookings, so if you missed Monday night, please keeping checking for upcoming shows.*  Nigel will be letting us all know (one of them includes a boat ride around the Thousand Islands!).   Garry’s wife, Elaine, who is a Patsy Cline tribute artist, and who was a cast member of the TV show Hee Haw, will join Garry later in June.

Garry told so many interesting stories last night, but because I am going to do an interview with Garry, they will be saved for a later post.  Garry’s career started in 1980, so with close to 40 years as an ETA, Garry has some amazing tales to tell.  Here is example:  In 1977, when Garry was in his 17th year, he was not able to see Elvis in concert because he had to work.  With “All Shook Up” playing on his car radio, Garry spotted Elvis in the car beside him at a stoplight.  Rolling down the window, Elvis said to Garry, “How ya doing, son?  You be careful!”  It was an incredible chance meeting that is indelibly etched in Garry’s memory.  I cannot wait for ETA Garry Wesley’s interview!

Thank you to Rev. Barbara Fullerton and everyone at East Plains United Church for making us all feel so welcome.  It was a splendid evening. Thank you, also, to Julian Warme, from Port Hope, Ontario for his work on sound and lighting.  Julian, who is also a musician, has conducted the Port Hope Pops Orchestra.  See you at the next show!  Best regards, Carolyn.

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