Let's Hear It For Me!

[mrdreamjeans]

Let me share a story of one of the most embarrassing moments in my life. In 1976, I was a senior at Texas A&M University. My favorite professor was a history professor, Dr. Shirley Black. In addition to her teaching duties, Dr. Black, a renowned French History scholar, was the faculty advisor to the Young Republicans group at the university.

 
One day Shirley, who I adored and from whom I took five classes, came to me with a request. Nancy Reagan was coming to A&M, campaigning for her husband at an event the Young Republicans were sponsoring. Shirley asked me to be the entertainment. At this time, my only experience singing was as a member of The Singing Cadets, the university’s all-male chorus, and one summer in the outdoor musical TEXAS at Palo Duro Canyon, my first professional gig. I resisted; she insisted; I was petrified, but said yes anyway.

 Where am I headed with this tale? On the day of the event, I arrived, decked out in a three-piece green leisure suit. Dr. Black sent me onstage; I sang the song I’d prepared and received enthusiastic applause. I walked offstage and a flustered Shirley came up to me. She said, “Mrs. Reagan’s plane has been delayed and we need you to sing another song.” I replied, “Dr. Black, I only prepared one song!” She said, “Go sing it again!” I made my way back onstage and sheepishly explained to the audience what was going on, begging their indulgence and I sang the song again, this time to greater acclaim and understanding laughter.

 When I finished the number, I again walked into the wings. Mrs. Reagan had arrived; I was briefly introduced to her. (She was really tiny and dressed in a tailored red suit.) She walked onstage to thunderous applause. (This was the 70’s; Texas was an overwhelmingly Democratic state, but it was a Young Republicans event.) 

 Her first words at the podium were: “I apologize for my late arrival. I heard that a young man has kept you entertained while you were waiting for me. I’d like to hear him sing!” WHAT?????? I was pushed back onstage by Dr. Black. (Remember, I had only prepared one selection.) I looked out at the audience who realized they were likely going to hear the same song for a third time!

 I launched into the opening phrase “Blow the Bugles, Sound the Cymbals” and the crowd began rhythmically applauding. Amidst raucous laughter, I completed the song! Did I mention I’d chosen a song from the film musical “Funny Lady” to sing? To my everlasting embarrassment, I learned two lessons that day: 1) Always have more than one song prepared! 2) It’s unlikely you’ll ever have to sing a song for the same audience more than once; but if you do, don’t prepare a song with the title, “Let’s Hear it for Me!”

Comments

[billeyler]

Fun story!

[mrdreamjeans]

Thanks, Bill!