Focus On: ETA Gabe Phoenix

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ETA Gabe Phoenix Returns Home a Winner

ETA Gabe Phoenix of Karragarra Island. Photo Credit: Linda Muller, www.redlandcitybulletin.com.au.

Elvis Tribute Artist, Gabe Phoenix, of Karragarra Island, triumphantly returned to his homeland of Australia after winning first place in the Gospel Pro Division competition in the 2019 Lake George, NY, Elvis Festival. The competition, one of the largest Elvis tribute artist competitions in the world, is comprised of five days of Elvis Presley related festivities that includes performances on cruises on the lake, a classic car parade and Elvis themed parties. It attracts tribute artists from around the world. Gabe, who performed the gospel song “Stand By Me”, said he believed the win was about establishing an audience connection.

"It was a truly exhilarating experience, and, to be honest, a surprising outcome. While I had never been to lake George, New York, before, there was still a familiar sense of camaraderie—a mutual bond with the audience," he said.  "They were there for the same reason. We had found ourselves on the other side of the globe and that was because of Elvis Presley whom I believe is the greatest entertainer who ever breathed. It was both humbling and thrilling at the same time—a true honour in every sense."

Gabe has been working as a tribute artist locally, interstate, and overseas for many years. He is currently rehearsing an Elvis gospel inspired show that he plans on performing in Australia in coming months. He will also be competing in the Ultimate Elvis Competition at Viva Surfers Paradise Festival, July 12 to 21.

"In the end, a competition is really about pushing yourself to be the best you can be. Not to be Elvis, but rather be better than your best. It's about paying homage and it's about making a connection," he said. "There is only one Elvis. If you can be respectful and gain the respect of others via music, then you have done your job. Winning is not about being the best.; It's about doing your best at what Elvis did best, and that is to entertain and connect with an audience."

Article source: www.redlandcitybulletin.com.au, JUNE 24 2019. Credited to: Linda Muller, with edits by C. MacArthur.

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Fan Feature: Exclusive

Intro

The recent interview that I posted with ETA Donny Edwards received so many comments that this week’s post has the distinction of being called a “Fan Feature: Exclusive”. There were just too many names—more than twenty, to fit on the title line! Donny is most certainly a fan favourite; and he will be the sole ETA spotlighted this week. It is a testament to both Donny and Donna that so many took time to write their thoughts and feelings about the dynamo couple, and about Donny’s amazing tribute to Elvis. In one line, or several sentences, whether an observation or a heartfelt sentiment, each contributor posted a comment that was gratefully received and a pleasure to read. Thank you to everyone whose comments appear in this feature! And thank to Donny’s fans who sent along photos to be used in this post.

Comments and Tributes

Wendy King:  This was fascinating. You can always tell the difference when an ETA is a fan first. I really enjoyed the depth of Donny and Donna's answers.

Kandi Gilmore:  I love this interview of Donny Edwards. I personally think he is the best ETA there is…so proud to call him a friend.  I travel and see him as much as I can.

Joan:  I have known Donny for more than ten years.  I have watched him grow into the best ETA in the business.  Every time I see him he never ceases to amaze me.  He has a wealth of knowledge about Elvis that he shares with his audience.  His voice is so much like Elvis that if I close my eyes it is hard to tell the difference, and his moves are spot on.  This is a wonderful article highlighting his career and his accomplishments.  With Donny on stage, and Donna behind the scenes, they are a team hard to beat. Well done Donny and Donna. Keep entertaining us with your wonderful shows.

Becky Kier: Thank you for the most fascinating and factual interview with the best ETA in the business...Donny Edwards. He has everything it takes to be the best....looks, voice, moves and the most loyal and supportive wife…Donna. He is also a wonderful humble Christian person off stage. I am proud to call them my friends. Thank you again for recognizing such a truly wonderful man.

Donny Edwards with the “Donny 5”. Photo Credit: Jane Stamper.

Shirley Morgan:  Awesome interview with Donny Edwards. I have known Donny for many years and have had the honor and privilege of watching his career as an ETA grow and Donny becoming the ETA he is today.  Donny’s love and respect for Elvis is so apparent and authentic. Thanks Donny for keeping Elvis’s memory alive and doing it with professionalism and love.  Donna, thanks for your hard work, support and love.  Proud to be yours and Donny’s friend.

Janet Knowles:  Awesome interview!  I have seen Donny perform several times and I have said it many a times to his lovely wife and Donny how Elvis lives in Donny.  First time seeing Donny perform was in Ottumwa, Iowa, no plans on going, but went with a good friend, and I was blown away by Donny's talent.  His performance, his voice it was like watching and listening to Elvis.  One of my favorite songs is "HURT", and Donny sang it that night saying it was one of his father's favorite songs.  Donny nailed the song, and from that moment on Donny gained a new fan.  He is, and always will be, the Best ETA. Forever an Elvis fan - Forever a Donny fan.

“My Donny in the Suite at South Point after a Concert” Photo Credit: Twilla Bilbrey, 2016.

Twilla Bilbrey:  I was in awe as I read this article and watched the videos. This was the most amazing thing I've read, and I am so proud of Donny and Donna.  I have been following Donny since 2011 and I am proud to say a friend for as long.  I never tire of watching his concerts and I am so proud when he takes a moment to thank those who support him. Will be a fan until the day I die! (Editor’s Note: I wish to thank Twilla Bilbrey for sending two great photos used in this post. Twilla is part of a group called the “Donny 5”. In her message, Twilla describes the beginning of the group: It was in 2011 when Kandi and I first saw him, and we met the others soon after. We knew we needed MORE!!!! Jane and Sally are sisters, but Mary had gone on her own…Donny does mention us from the stage, mostly when we are in the audience…The others we included along the way love him as much as we do…His mother travels with us when her husband isn't going, and we Love her dearly!)

Louis Manx:  Great article!

Jean:  I love everything about this interview AND I love everything about Donny and Donna!  I have been a fan of Donny since first seeing him at the Elvis-A-Rama in Las Vegas.  Since then I have tried to make it to most of his concerts at the South Point Casino and was fortunate to see him at the Westgate show on the Elvis stage.  Both Donny and Donna are amazing and their love of Elvis shines through.  I have seen many ETAs, but Donny is by far the best.  He shows true appreciation for the fan’s support and it’s always ‘all about Elvis’ not himself.

Irene:  I was first introduced to Donny last November. He was amazing.  His moves, looks and voice—it was like watching Elvis. Donny, you gained a new fan. The article was great.  I loved learning about his life and all his accomplishments. Donny and Donna are a great team.

Ellen and Jim: Donny and Donna are the best in Elvis performance and promotion. If you love and appreciate Elvis, Donny will bring tears to your eyes. His vocals are superb and his moves authentic. Just watch and listen. We attend as many performances as possible. The South Point showroom in Las Vegas is a favorite. We enjoy your articles

Brenda Kelley:  I loved reading this interview about Donny.  It was wonderful getting to know Donny on a more personal level and learning about his family, his love for Elvis, his hard working accomplishments, and his love for God and his fans.  Can’t wait to see you again in Texas!  The biggest request I have is, please add “Early Morning Rain” to your show! Please!!!!  Love you Donny and Donna for the great couple that you are.

Joan Haber: What a great article.  You get to know Donny after this read.  Thank you for sharing it with all of us.

Mary Miller:  I have known Donny since he worked at retail store in Lake Jackson. He is so awesome. Very very nice!!  You can close your eyes and listen; he sounds just like real Elvis. We ❤ you, Donny.  Hope to see you again soon . Thanks for CDs . Your Lake Jackson friend, Mary M.

JH:  Donny is, by far, the best ETA in the business.

Sisters Jane Stamper and Sally Nietering with ETA Donny Edwards. Photo Credit: Jane Stamper.

Jane Stamper:  Such an amazing article about Donny Edwards!!  Will never forget the first time seeing Donny’s tribute show to Elvis in Conroe, TX, in 2010.  I have been a loyal fan since.  His shows are phenomenal, so authentic, and so true to Elvis.  Thank you, Donny and Donna, for bringing these many shows to the fans, shows that are al for the right reasons:  Keeping it true, and all about keeping Elvis’s legacy alive.  It’s like an evening with Elvis, through the 50s, 60s and 70s, all in one night!  Lastly, I would like to say, “Before Elvis, there was nothing, and now, after Elvis, there is Donny Edwards!”

Sally Nietering: Wow! I’m so honored that you selected one of my photos for this article! As one of the original “Donny 5” formed in Conroe, I have thoroughly enjoyed each concert I’ve seen over the past nine years (since 2010!).  I can honestly say that each time I’m amazed on how your performance continually gets EVEN BETTER with new songs/renditions and new costumes.  Wishing both you and Donna continuing success, and many, many more happy trips to Disneyland...and of course Graceland! ~Sally~

Debbie Gaines: Such a great interview with so many interesting things to help everyone get to know Donny Edwards.  I can still remember, vividly, the first time that I saw Donny’s show...I was totally in awe of his truly remarkable “tribute” to Elvis Presley.  I knew that he was a diehard Elvis fan; obviously he spent a lot of time studying  Elvis’s moves and mannerisms.  That was nine years ago, and I am STILL in awe at each and every show!! Donny’s tribute is always authentic, honorable, and respectful to Elvis.  He just simply would not have it any other way.  I feel blessed to call Donny and Donna Edwards my friends. Wow, what a fantastic interview!!

Chesney Gaines: It was a great interview!!  Donny is an amazing ETA!! I personally have enjoyed every show since I first started seeing Donny eight years ago!

Treasure Gaines:  Oh what can I say that hasn’t already been said?!  Donny and Donna are the most down-to-earth individuals you’ll ever know.  They are so humble and kind and loving.  We first saw Donny perform in 2010, and have traveled all over for him. He is backed by one of the best bands, Fever!  If you’ve never seen him perform, make it happen.  I promise you won’t be disappointed!  We love you D&D!

Starr Williams:  Donny and Donna just love what you have done here.   You know we have been your fans for a while now, and are very proud of you both, and your hard work.  Thank you, Donny, for letting us get to know you better. That was such a treat.  It's just wonderful hearing from you.  You’re wonderful and we appreciate your hard work very much…Thank you for coming each year to Conroe and keeping Elvis’s memory alive for us in such a devoted, selfless, way.  And thank you, Donna, for supporting your husband so unconditionally.  It shows in every way.  Love you both.  Starr and Danny.*

ETA Donny Edwards with Jane Stamper. Photo Credit: Jane Stamper

Linda Kimmett: I read with interest this great interview with Donna and Donny Edwards. They work so well together always keeping the fans informed as to where they are travelling and performing, and what is happening in their personal lives. So great to have that much contact with an ETA that is so exceptional and busy. Donna deserves so much credit for keeping us informed. I have seen Donny in concert maybe 4 times and have always been impressed with the sincerity and integrity of his tribute to Elvis. He does every move exactly like Elvis and his voice and looks are so very close to Elvis's and are second to none!!  Every video I see of Donny, whether he is talking or singing, always show his devotion to what he does. Would love to see him in Eastern Ontario some day soon.  I love Donna and Donny's story from the beginning, to their wedding at Graceland, and the years since. They really seem like the perfect couple with a pretty perfect life!  They have things under their control and are doing a wonderful job!  Thank you for the great interview!

Jane Stamper: There’s OKAY, GOOD, BETTER, and BEST…ETA Donny Edwards is THE BEST of THE BEST!!!!! *****THE DONNY 5*****

Shaunee Dunn: The first time I saw Donny at the South Point, I was in awe!!! Met Donna! They are both very humble Sweet Couple! I really enjoyed your interview. Well done! I so wish that Donny was asked to star in the upcoming Elvis movie!

Linda Ramsey: I have not had the pleasure of seeing Donny, but after reading this great interview and looking at the great videos, I sure hope Donny comes nearby so I can have the pleasure of seeing him. He looks and sounds so much like the greatest entertainer ever. I admire the way he and his wife live and work so well together. Great interview.

Editor’s Note: The following photos were sent to me by Kandi Gilmore. Thank you, Kandi.

Thank you all very much!

(Edits by Carolyn MacArthur. Unless otherwise noted, photos used in this post are credited to Donna Edwards).

Recap of Harmony Square ETA Show

Article

Harmony Square in Brantford, Ontario, is fast becoming one of my favourite outdoor venues to see ETA shows.  Last year we were treated to two shows celebrating the 10th Anniversary of Harmony Square--one featuring ETAs Brycen Katolinsky and Bruno Nesci, and a second show with ETA Matt Cage. This year, Bruno Nesci was joined by fellow ETA, James Gibb.  It was also a second appearance for James, having performed at Harmony Square three years ago. 

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Evan poses for a photo at Coffee Culture. Photo Credit: Carolyn MacArthur.

Music in the Square is presented by The Crew Real Estate and offers entertainment throughout July and August in Harmony Square, which is situated directly across from the Sanderson Theatre in downtown Brantford.  Within easy walking distance, and with wheelchair accessibility, Harmony Square, is neighboured by restaurants, coffee shops, and municipal parking.  During last night’s event, we dropped in at Coffee Culture that is adjacent to the Square, where we were pleasantly greeted and served by Evan and his efficient team members. 

Courtesy The Crew Real Estate FB page.

The Crew Real Estate also hosts Movies in the Park which offers local residents and visitors a chance to see movies in different parks located in Brantford from July to September.  As with last year’s ETA event at Music in the Square, The Crew Real Estate generously gave away a free large screen TV to one lucky person at the show.  I had the pleasure of meeting Christa, who responds to messages on Harmony Square Facebook page, and Tim Campbell, who is responsible for the great ETA shows we are all enjoy, and Joshua Wall who is part of The Crew Real Estate team, and a member of the Brantford Council.  The three are part a group of many people who contribute to the success of the summer concert and movie series.  At this year’s ETA show with James Gibb and Bruno Nesci, the number in attendance at Harmony Square grew considerably from last year.  Hopefully the postings on SIDEBURNS Magazine about the show helped in part. 

Almost the entire front row was made up from fans, friends, and followers.  I was joined seven of my family members—five more than the previous year!   Last year my two youngest granddaughters saw Brycen and Bruno perform; and this year they, along with their older sister, had a chance to meet Bruno before his set.  I cannot say enough good things about how sweet and kind Bruno was to his two little eight year old fans and their sister.  At the end of the show, my seventeen year old grandson surprised me by asking to have his photo taken with Bruno and James. It was only Cassius’s second time seeing an ETA show.  Last year we took him to see a Pete Paquette and Chris Connor show in Milton, which he thought was “cool”.  (Thank you to the parents who gave permission to use photos in this article).

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One of the best parts of seeing the show last night, besides the fabulous tributes by award winning ETAs, Bruno Nesci, who is representing the Penticton Elvis Festival in the Ultimate contest in Memphis in August, and James Gibb, was seeing some dear friends and fans that I have missed since the regular ETA shows ended at the local casinos.  I captured many familiar faces, plus some new fans, seen in the following photo album having a great time at Harmony Square.  Also in the album, are photos of Sue Harris, who, along with business partner, Pam Petit, runs the Flaming Star Elvis Festival in Toronto, and Joanmaire and Ron Provo, organizers of the RHLI (Royal Hamilton Light Infantry) shows in Hamilton.

Photo Album

Photo Credit: Carolyn MacArthur.

I look forward to next year’s Harmony Square ETA show, which seems so far away. 

But wait! We can all meet up at another ETA outdoor show on Monday, August 5th, 2019—Civic Monday, in Port Colborne, to see multi award winning ETA, Tim E Hendry, followed by Beatles tribute band, The Caverners!  Details are available on my early blog post, “Canal Days” Extravaganza.  Summer is getting better and better!  Cheers, everyone! 

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