Brian Dunn, the head softball coach at University School of Jackson has been involved in music ministry at for eight years at Poplar Heights Baptist Church and Brownsville Baptist Church.
But he also takes care of business as an Elvis Tribute Artist, and he visited with 101.5 FM and WNWS.COM to discuss this unique hobby.
Question: How did you decide this was something you wanted to do, and how long have you been an Elvis Tribute Artist?
Answer: I have always enjoyed singing, and I’ve always had a good Elvis singing voice. I’ve performed over 50 shows during the last seven years – private shows, class reunions organizations, church shows, senior events and many more. I also do a Roy Orbison set in many of these shows.
Question: Will you tell us about your most recent performance?
Answer: Last Monday. The show was for the Prime Time seniors group at Englewood Baptist Church and we had over 200 at the performance, which was held at the newly refurbished Old English Inn that Englewood owns.
Question: Where did you purchase the outfits you use for your performances?
Answer: My outfits are ever evolving, and there are many companies that make authentic Elvis outfits. Either full suits or just tops.
Question: What makes your performance unique?
Answer: I don’t just stand on stage. I interact with the audience – making my way around the room while singing directly to individuals. It has required me to put to memory 30-plus Elvis songs.
Question: What kind of reception do you usually receive?
Answer: The reactions from the crowds and the genuine pleasure and memories it evokes from many make it worth it. Over the years, I have heard many great stories while singing to individuals. Stories ranging from; I lived down the street from Elvis, my cousin dated Elvis, I was in the kitchen at Graceland when Elvis walked in and many more.
It’s still amazing to me the emotion that Elvis is still able to draw from people. He truly was the king of rock and roll.
(PHOTO: Brian Dunn works the crowd during as an Elvis Tribute Artist at the Old English Inn)
David Thomas, Twitter – @DavidThomasWNWS
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