NXNE Karaoke: The Backyard Edition.

 I spent a very long time dreaming of serenating the masses at Dundas Square. Yes, the ultimate rock star experience. Forcing people endure my vocal strains as I impertinently butcher a classic is a fantastic way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Ever since the announcement went out last month that Good Enough LIVE KARAOKE was to hold an event for NXNE, I lost all my senses and signed up right a way. It was destiny. 

Tag yourselves on Facebook!

(Photo Cred - @timmccready)

When Sunday came around, I had no idea what to expect. With my heart racing, I nervously researched ‘rock star attire’ but the only thing I owned resembling stardom was a black V-neck from H&M. It was cool though. I figured I could just lie to people and tell them shop where Simon Cowell does his shopping. But I’d only bring it up if someone asked. It was all planned perfectly. On my way to the venue, I studied the lyrics to Misfits ‘We Are 138.’ I arrived to square; positive my senses were deceiving me. What I saw wasn’t a crowd full of karaoke enthusiasts. What I heard was not an amateur rendition of ‘Sweet Child O’Mine.’ There must have been some kind of mistake. To get to the bottom of this mystery, I did what any good investigator would do; checked Facebook for answers. 

The karaoke festivities had been moved!
159 Manning had become the new destination for some unknown reasons but for now, that was all the information I needed. I hopped on the next 505 and vigorously made my way over.

I actually ended up singing 'Kiss' by Prince (Photo Cred - @timmccready)

When I arrived, I was pleased to see what seemed to have been a continuation of the awesome BBQ they hosted two days prior. Papa McCready behind the grill, people sipping beer looking on as performer after performer took the stage. 159 Manning was hosting yet another very welcoming and inclusive event. Despite the fiasco between the NXNE organizers and the band, I’m really hoping they come to some form of understanding because it’s clear that everyone involved with the 159 Manning household truly embodies the NXNE spirit.