Robert “Bobby” Ferrell, 33, surpassed the usual expectations for Wednesday night karaoke at Damon’s Grill.
Wristbands were passed out at the door, and an overflow of customers filled every inch of the bar before 9 p.m.
“I have to admit that I was pretty nervous about the turnout,” said Matthew Vogrin, manager. “This is our first time, along with Bobby’s, and I never thought that so many people would show up.”
Damon’s Grill has been open for almost five years, struggling to make ends meet during weekdays. Its Suncrest Towne Centre location is not a normal hangout spot for the college crowd, unless games are broadcasted on the big screens.
Karaoke night was an attempt to draw in a weekday night crowd.
Ferrell used to work in the coal mines; but after getting laid off, he was forced to look for more work. Managing the kitchen staff at Damon’s Grill during the day is not enough to support his wife, Sarah, and two children, Taylor and Isaac. Hence, he accepted the offer as a karaoke D.J.
Speakers were dragged onto the floor and placed next to a small flat screen. Wires scattered everywhere and the microphone screech was unbearable. However, at 10 p.m. the entertainment began.
Ferrell grabbed the mic, “Hey bartender, can I get a Jager bomb?”
The crowd laughed and two guys at the bar threw a high-five.
Yet, a disappointing initial reaction came at first: no one wanted to sing. Bobby, however, was not about to allow his first night on the job go sour.
Weezer’s “Say It Ain’t So” was the first song he sang.
A group of girls sitting closest to the Karaoke table joined in, “Say it ain’t sooooo. My love is a life-taker.”
The icebreaking first song encouraged the next volunteer, Jason Weaver.
“Girls, I dedicate this to you,” said Weaver.
He blew listeners away with Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World.” He mimicked the deep, raspy voice perfectly.
Bar stools scooted backwards and people stood up to give Weaver a standing cheer. He shook Bobby’s hand and walked back to his chair.
Bobby’s sign-up sheet was full. Song choices ranged from Nelly’s “Hot in Herre” to Vanilla Ice’s “Ice Ice Baby.” He had volunteers backed up until after closing time.
Beer foam flew of the rims of the frozen mugs as bartender Derika Fletcher raced back-and-forth to every customer. The overwhelming panic in her eye was noticeable.
Grabbing the mic again, Bobby smiled and said, “I will give away a Coors Light hat to the first person who tips Derika more than a dollar.”
The brandy snifters scattered along the bar flooded with tips.
“I am having an awesome time,” said Fletcher. “We did not expect to have this many people show up, but I love every minute of it.”
The lights came on, slimming the crowd down and eventually clearing the area. Half empty glasses and beverage napkins were everywhere, ending a successful first night.
“After tonight, all I can hope for is an even bigger turnout next Wednesday,” Vogrin said.