His big belter’s voice clinched the deal…Scott Crawford and his soulful rendition of “Feelin’ Good” took him to the top spot in Seattle Out & Proud’s annual singing competition, “Pride Idol” last night at Neighbours as Crawford won the $3000 first prize and a number of high profile gigs during Pride month and throughout the year. First runner up was Tony James and his naughty but oh so nice take on Kander & Ebb’s “Mein Herr” from “Cabaret” and the petite framed but mega voiced Chris Hoffman belted out “Unchained Melody” to grab the second runner up spot.
Pride Idol played to a large and enthusiastic crowd at Neighbours, largely due to the many fans of the singers performing, but the presence of “Same Love” singer/songwriter Mary Lambert as one of the judges might have had something to do with it. The adorable performer’s smart but sassy commentary on the performances was a highlight of the evening.
Also judging were 2012 Pride Idol winner, Chase Silva; Seattle Out & Proud’s Angie Mykel (who also produced this year’s Pridol season) and from One Degree Events/Seattle PrideFest, Egan Orion. Mama Tits was the larger than life hostess; she had her hands full last night, frequently having to charge into the audience to get noisy audience members to STFU while the finalists performed and the judges gave their critiques.
The show was opened by a moving memorial to two community members who lost their lives this week: former Idol contestant Donta Rogers, who passed away in Los Angeles after fighting cancer, and Melissa Erickson, the former UW women’s basketball star who lost her battle with ALS. Mr. Silva and 2010 Pride Idol Karolina Longoria performed a tribute to the pair to open the event after a moment of silence.
The Idol winner and some of the finalists will perform at Saturday’s fundraiser for Equal Rights Washington, the “Pre-Pride, Pre-Funk” being held at Q from 6pm to 9pm. AND, you can check out Scott at SO&P’s Pride Picnic earlier that day in Volunteer Park AND on the SO&P float during the 2013 Pride Parade AND performing at the PrideFest Mainstage at Seattle Center on Pride Sunday, June 30.
Congratulations to Scott, all the finalists and Seattle Out & Proud for a job well done.
But, next year, y’all need to do “The Voice”….get crackin’ on having someone build those awesome CHAIRS!