Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret

Kelly Clinton's Cabaret:That's Entertainment!!

2011-08-28T21:17:00.000-07:00

Every Monday night is an awesome experience for the entertainers and the crowd that fills the room each week at Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret show at the Bootlegger Bistro!!

Monday night Kelly Clinton opened the show with her comedic take as the legally unacknowledged, yet obviously unmistakable daughter of the Nutty Professor himself, Jerry Lewis. Kelly came out as Professor Geraldine Lewis wearing a white lab coat, geek eyeglasses, a black wig and flashing those famous buck teeth!!! For props she had a easel with a chart of the upper body and a pointer stick she used during her hysterical demonstration about proper breathing, the affects on the brain and the voice. Audience participation was a big part of the bit and the finale was the loving daughter’s tribute tune to her dad, "Smile." Then with a sip of the 'magic potion' followed by some quick jerking moves, the Nutty Professor's daughter was transformed into the one and only, Kelly Clinton!!!! She's simply incredible!! What a fantastic kickoff to a great night of entertainment!

Next it was time for Kelly to introduce a terrific line up of wonderful entertainers. Several of the big names like Clint Holmes and his MD, Jeff Neiman, Bill Fayne, and Mark O'Toole, each took center stage to try out some first time ever performances of new material for upcoming shows. Clint Holmes will be appearing in the in NYC's Cafe Carlyle for three weeks in October. Bill Fayne is working on his upcoming Sondheim show scheduled for October 8 and 9. (Kelly Clinton is one of 30 great singers and actors who will perform in the Sondheim musical tribute at the Suncoast) ... And, the crooner himself, Mark O'Toole, headliner at the M Resort and other Vegas venues, tested out a new number to add to his musical repertoire.

Kelly Clinton is scheduled to perform her one-woman show -- Freckles and 80 Year-Old Bones--at the Metropolitan Room in NYC on October 17. Her musical director, Mike Clark will travel with her. Back East peeps can get your tickets online or contact the Metropolitan Room reservation desk at 212-206-0440.

We had a great surprise performance by the awesome singer, Michaelina Bellamy. It was so great to see Mikie singing her heart out the evening before she was headed back to the hospital for more tests and treatments. This is one phenomenal woman and an inspiration to us all.

Clint Holmes jumps in to jam with Tymara Smith.......................

Fun Times.......Ronnie Rose and Kelly Clinton swing...

In the center stage spotlight were the talented Ronnie Rose, Dezmond Meeks (American Idol and America's Got Talent), Margo Davis, Tymara Smith, Don Hunley, Yvonne Silva, Alex Christopher, Janicey Brar (The Billy Holiday Tribute Artist won "four" 2011 BMA awards). Also in the Cabaret were, L.A. performer, Danni Rosner, singers, Mz. Satin and Tommy Herrera (both auditioning for The Voice), Bruce Antman , Rachel Jackson, Ronette Van Deve, Charm Binns, and book author, Michael Silvia.

In between acts, Kelly spotted some of her favorite kind of guys and let them know it with the tune, I like Bald Headed Men. From the looks on the guys faces, I think it goes both ways Kelly.......There were several birthday celebrations going on the house too, so of course, the Happy Birthday tune was sung loud and clear a couple of times.

As always, this was an incredible evening of entertainment!

Special guests were spotted in the crowd and given a shout!!! After their live show at the "House of Blues," the band, J. Roddy Walston and The Business from Tennessee Rights, came in to see the show and enjoy the Bistro food. Also, at the Clint Holmes table was Myron Martin, CEO of the Smith Center, with his family. The Smith Center is an exciting performing arts center scheduled to open in Downtown Las Vegas in March 2012.

Every Monday night is an awesome experience for the entertainers and the crowd that fills the room each week at Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret show at the Bootlegger Bistro!! The fantastic band is led by Kelly's musical director, Mike Clark, with Guido Treis on drums.

Sitting in for the opening number was the awesome sax player, Steve Johnson.... and sitting in on and off all night long was keyboard player, Maurice Crutcher....DJ, Steve Weaver filled in for Jersey Jake Klein. Thanks to all the wonderful entertainers, our great fans and everyone with the Bootlegger for filling the house with fantastic vibes every Monday night!!! So as we often say, Forget your troubles come on get happy every Monday night at Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret!!!

Bootlegger Bistro Monday Nights 9 pm.

Make your dining room reservations by calling 702-736-4939

Buzz: I'm So Excited!!!!

2011-06-05T11:05:00.000-07:00

Message from Kelly Clinton

I'm still not over last Monday night at my Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger!!

We had so many amazing singers and musicians! Topping the night off were celebrity guest performances by Jimmy Hopper who will be appearing in the showroom at the Aliante this month; Gordie Brown riffed with impressions while the incomparable Clint Holmes sang...it was quite a duet. Television star, recording artist, and now real life Minister, Clifton Davis was back with his beautiful wife Monica and family. Clifton gave an awesome performance of the hit tune he wrote "Never Can Say Goodbye." The song was a huge hit for The Jackson Five! And....Billy Hinsche of The Beach Boys --and Dino, Desi, & Billy, gave a terrific performance of the song, "KoKomo." !!!! Wow!!!!!

Several singers who appeared in the Cabaret for the first time were Valita, from the Stone City Band, Perry Povone, a Frank Sinatra tribute artist, and guitarist, Perry Maymon.
Other terrific entertainers who have graced our stage before were also on hand to perform for us:
Lucie Knight, Elisa Furr, Tymara Smith, Lisa Gay, Yvonne Silva, Lannie Counts, Martin Mancuso, George Dare,
Patty Powers, David Marinelli, "Dirty Shooz" Frank Faugno, "Lady Day" Janicey Brar, and Rachel Jackson.

Gordie Brown performed at my Cabaret
for the second week in a row!

Whew, I hope I didn't forget anyone!!!

Actor/Singer/Songwriter, Clifton Davis with Kelly Clinton
Clifton was back for his second time performance at
Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret!!!!

What a great show!!!

Clint Holmes

Jimmy Hopper

Billy Hinsche

My A-Team is my Musical Director, Mike Clark, drummer, Cliff Workman, --Tony Drake was on guitar this week-- Jersey Jake Klein, mixing and setting for us, and Mike Turner from the Bootlegger running the sound too!!

Ron Mancuso and Lorraine Hunt Bono, thanks for having us every Monday night for the past two years!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This night marked the 104th consecutive Monday night for Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro!!!

Oh yes, I hosted, sang and clowned around all night long --and can't wait to do it again!!

Monday night, June 6, 2011, starts our third year at the Bootlegger!!!! Hope to see you all there!!!

Kelly

Smash Hit Party @ Kelly's Clinton's Cabaret

2011-05-23T11:37:00.000-07:00

The Great Jam!!!

Kelly Clinton hosted
another
incredible
night of live
entertain-
ment
at her Open Mic Cabaret on Monday, May 9.

The highlight of the evening was the birthday celebration for her husband, headliner Clint Holmes. Friends and fans came out in droves to honor Clint and enjoy the show.

Yes he does!!!!!

The fantastic lineup of great entertainers included good friends,
Mark Rivera (musical director for Billy Joel) and Pat Hand, former guitar player with Clint Holmes and currently corporate events producer world wide. (White House events included!) Joining Clint, Kelly, Mark and Pat in an awesome jam on the Marvin Gaye tune "What's Going On" were Earl Turner, Gayle Thompson Steele, Mary Oliver, Lisa Gay, Bobby Brooks Wilson, Wendy Fleming, Lannie Counts, Tim Wells, Brian Czach, and Jeff Neiman. Following individual performances by many of those awesome entertainers came more wonderful performances by Danny Wright, Janicey Brar, Yvonne Silva, Nigel Giovanni, Ulysses Borgia, Breonte Porter, Leana Carter, Juliet Rome, Danielle Oliver, DeNeille Thompson, Kamelah Flintroy and Rachel Jackson.

The rest of this story is a photo play of

Mark Rivera (center w/mic) Pat Hand (far right)

this great show at

Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret

in the Bootlegger Bistro!!!!

Kelly Clinton opened the really big show with backup by Lisa Gay, Lannie Counts and Tim Wells,
and the great band led by Mike Clark on keys, Cliff Workman on drums with guest players Tony Drake on guitar and
Pablo Perez on bass.
DJ and all-around stage manager, Jake Klein, was right there supporting all the entertainers.
Bootlegger Bistro guy, Ronnie Mancuso, welcomed the crowd.

Gayle Steele: One Hot Sis ta!!!!

Lannie Counts & Clint Holmes

Tim Wells

Earl Turner & Mike Clark

Earl Turner cracks up Clint Holmes

Wild Thing! Kelly Clinton Dancin' Dancin' Dancin'

Pia Zadora & Kelly Clinton hit it off. Clint appears to be 'chopped liver' at this moment! LOL!

Let Them Eat Cake! Clint with his son Cooper Holmes & Kelly and the Gang!!

Danny Wright

Lisa Gay & Tony Drake

Jeff Neiman

Bobby Brooks Wilson

Leana Carter (L) & Breonte Porter: Sylk, Satin & Lace

Clint Holmes, Man of the Hour!

Clint Holmes
He Inspires Us All!!!

Kelly get the dish on John Katsilometes

Janicey Brar 'Lady Day'

Danielle Oliver

Ulysses Borgia

Yvonne Silva

Wendy Fleming

Nigel

Rachel Jackson

DeNeille Thompson

Kamelah Flintroy

Dennis Bono stops to chat with Earl & Christine Turner

Oh what a night!!!!

Come out Every Monday Night

to the Bootlegger Bistro for

Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret!!!

Dining Room Reservations: 702-736-4939

Thank you all for supporting the Las Vegas entertainment community!

Special thanks to Mark O'Toole for being our fabulous guest host last Monday night while Kelly Clinton was in LA!!!

It's ALWAYS A BLAST!!!

It's A Wrap!!!!

2011-02-14T09:41:00.000-08:00

Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret evening of “Lights, Cameras, Action” is a wrap!!!! In fact, we are keeping photos and videos of the sensational event under wraps until the production is ready for the market!!!

The exciting and much anticipated night was off to an amazing start with the incredible entertainer Kelly Clinton performing one of her brand new original musical comedy "takes" with backup by the fantastic Swing City Dolls!!! As always the crowd loved it!!!!! The awesome musician, Brian Czach sat in on the drums for this killer performance. Tommy Steele added his fantastic vibes on the saxophone and the extraordinary arranger/musician, Jeff Neiman played piano. Wish we could show those pictures!!!!!

Part of the crowd awaiting the show

I can tell you there were hundreds of people in the audience at the Bootlegger Bistro --and what looked like a Green Room crowd of forty or more singers and entertainers who wanted to get behind the mic last Monday night! Of course that was impossible but there was a lot of super talent that made it to the stage.

Green Room

Bill Bayne & friends chat before the start of the shoot

Musicians Tony Drake (L), Tim Fahey, and Tommy Steele with
the sensational Skye Dee Miles

Maestro, Mike Clark

Lena Prima & Brian Czach in the wings

Starting off the open mic talent line-up was Las Vegas headliner and recording artist, Lena Prima with a fabulous performance of her own original song from her latest album ---and a second number, a tribute tune to the artists of New Orleans. Lena added several of her own show musicians to Kelly’s band led by the Maestro, Mike Clark with the awesome, Tony Drake on lead guitar. Sitting in for Lena’s spot was Brian Czach on drums, with Steve Johnson on Sax, and Lena’s husband, Tim Fahey. on guitar.

The very next act was a hot duet by the popular soulful singer, Lisa Gay, and 'the voice' himself, Paul Stubblefield. Hot! Hot! Hot!

Talking about the kind of super stars that frequently show up for Kelly Clinton’s Cabaret on Monday night’s, this time it was the world famous impersonator Rich Little who stepped on stage to give us a few of his most popular impersonations. Rich Little had the crowd roaring with laughter at his amazing performance. What a thrill!!!!

Cameraman followed
Kelly Clinton all night long

There is just so much talent in Las Vegas that every Monday night Kelly Clinton presents a fantastic show. Her Cabaret offers entertainers --from super star celebrities, headliners, up and coming artists, seasoned professional and break-in performers-- a place to gather, perform and promote their talent in front of a terrific audience that fills the house each week. It’s a throwback of real live “Vintage Vegas” that you just can’t find any other place in town.

Lannie Counts and Perry Paschall

Among the many who performed Monday night was the sensational Lannie Counts who shared the stage with Las Vegas headliner/songwriter and playwright, the one and only, Clint Holmes!! Awesome!!

Michael Cagle Chats with the crowd before the show

Amid the other favorites of the Bootlegger Monday night crowd were recording artist Michael Cagle and that promising super-star Malia Civetz. Michael and Malia each gave a magnificent solo performance. Then there was the incredible singer, Tim Wells, an amazing show by Martin Mancuso on Saxophone, and an extraordinary number by the amazing singer/musical actress, Skye Dee Miles!!!! What a night!!!!

Wendy Fleming with Skye Dee Miles

The Swing City Dolls, were back on stage for their grand number. Natalie Carson, Robin Vincent, and Connie Murray are all terrific singers/dancers who perform together in fantastic harmony as the “Dolls." At other times, these talented women work solo. Natalie and Robin are currently starring with Kelly Clinton in the cast of "Nunsense" the Las Vegas Production. The musical comedy is set to reopen in the Shimmer Cabaret at the LV Hilton on February 21.

The fantastic musician and talented singer, Bill Fayne gave a tremendous vocal performance of opera music. Welcome back Bill!!! We don’t get to see Bill very often lately due to his very successful tours with the Las Vegas Tenors, (now called, Voices of Vegas). We had yet another wonderful opera singer come on stage by the name of Ulysses Borgia, a very dramatic showman who was invited back after just one Cabaret performance.

Clint Holmes getting set up for his interview

Oh, we can’t forget to mention the terrific duet performance by Bootlegger Bistro owner, Lorraine Hunt Bono and her talented husband, Dennis Bono. And a little later Lorraine and Dennis were back on stage with Kelly and her spouse, Clint Holmes, in yet another fun performance.

Kelly & Clint
(archive photo)

The dynamic Kelly Clinton took the crowd by surprise when she came back on center stage again with one more incredible show of her own unique talent for spoofing famous characters and creative costuming!!! Wow!!!! What an entertainer!!! Kelly blew the audience away again with this one!!!
You just had to be there to see Kelly's awesome act and her absolutely fantastic self-created costume!!!!!

In between every act Kelly is “on” keeping the show running with lighthearted improv, lots of laughter, and presenting the acts. Behind the scenes on Monday nights, Ronnie Mancuso and Kaci Machacyk along with Kelly keep the line up in order. Right there with them is DJ, Kevin Cordova who adds magic to every show with special effects and technical assistance. On stage, the band is led by Kelly’s awesome musical director, Mike Clark, and drummer, Cliff Workman ---and on this special night, the phenomenal Tony Drake was on lead guitar. The live music by this extraordinary band always enhances every entertainer’s performance!!!

Among the many up and coming talent that perform at Kelly’s Cabaret, this night five of the best female singers appeared together for one fantastic performance. Kaci Machacyk, Yvonne Silva, Karra Le`Shone, Tiffani Brooks and Nikki Kerns presented a really terrific musical voice harmony!

Another promising talent, Indie rock artist, Mike Vargovich gave an excellent solo performance on guitar singing his untitled original song. Keep an on eye on Mike and his Twenty-First Century musical style. Later on was an appearance by the hot chick singer, Mycki Manning, dressed to the hilt and sending out heat waves with her voice and moves. Oh Yes! We just can't forget the talented cowboy Yodeler with his guitar.. His act was straight out of an old Western movie!!!!

A couple of Rat Pack stylists who sing in Vegas tribute shows, Eddie Charles and Frank “The Voice,” followed one after the other at the mic to entertain us with a couple of "Blue Eyes" tunes. Later. Frank Faugno, AKA Dirty Shoes, did a fun-loving song and dance routine. Next up was Janicey Brar --who is probably the best Billy Holiday impressionist in the world-- gave a fantastic performance as Lady Day.

The entire evening was a magnificent display of talent topped off with a magical moment in the show that happened when Kelly invited a number of female singers to join her on stage for a “ Jam.” That started off with about eight or nine girls, then some of the men jumped in, then more and more singers filled the stage front and the entire audience was on their feet. “The Last Big Jam” blew the roof off!!!! You just had to be there to believe it!!!! Among the incredible female artists that started it off were Kelly, Reva Rice, Regi Brown, Kaci Machacyk, Rashida Jordan, Buffie Lucas, Skye Dee Miles, Lisa Mack, and Keaira Lashae.
What a great show!!! What a great night!!! Thanks to everyone who were part of it including all the entertainers, the musicians, the Bootlegger and the staff ----and the fantastic audience!!! Special thanks to top-notch wardrobe woman, Brandy Erickson for creating Kelly's first act costume and being there for all her changes--- and a big thank you to superbly talented Tommy Vinci and the lovely Kaci Machacyk who are always lending a hand.

Everyone can thank Kelly Clinton for getting this special event on and putting together the producers who wanted to see it happen. Thanks to the Bootlegger Bistro for providing the legendary venue that brings "Vintage Vegas" live via Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret every Monday night!!!! More details on the who, what, where and when, coming soon!!!!

See you all on Monday night, February 14, 2011 at

Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret!!!!

It’s Always a BLAST!!!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!!

The Buzz: Starry, Starry Night with Kelly Clinton

2010-10-10T22:02:00.000-07:00

Celebrity guest, Actor/singer/songwriter, Clifton Davis
with the sensational Kelly Clinton

Week after week the sensational entertainer,
Kelly Clinton, brings “Vintage Vegas” into the 21st Century with her show, Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro. The Cabaret is open to all entertainers: headliners, veteran performers, musicians, variety acts ---and new talent. Kelly Clinton presents a fantastic evening of entertainment every Monday night that includes many of the top acts in Las Vegas and even some of
the biggest stars in show biz.

And, just like back in the days when Frank Sinatra, members of the Rat Pack, Louis Prima, and other great Vegas acts got together for an ‘after the show’ jam, today‘s entertainers get together at Kelly’s Cabaret to perform for the sheer enjoyment of sharing the stage.

You just never know who will show up for the gig or who might be out in the crowd watching the show. What you can be sure of is, there’s not another a show like it in town.
Kelly Clinton’s Cabaret night is always an entertainment blast!!!

R to L, Clifton Davis, his wife, Monica Durant,
and Clint Holmes

Last Monday evening was really one for the history books!
The big celebrity surprise guest was none other than the fantastic Actor/singer/songwriter, Clifton Davis, who is probably best recognized as the star of the long running television show, “Amen.” Clifton was with his beautiful wife, Monica Durant, and our own favorite Vegas headliner, Clint Holmes. Oh what a night!!! It was Clifton’s birthday and it turned out to be one heck of a surprise celebration for the star ---and for everyone else in the room!!!

Kelly Clinton kicks off the show

Before letting on about the big surprise guest, an excited Kelly Clinton kicked off the show rockin’ out with the band on the upbeat tune, “I Want You Back.” Sitting in with Kelly's band were musicians, Mikole Kaar on sax, and Allan deVille on trumpet. That hot performance launched an 'unbelievable' evening of top-notch entertainment that Kelly put together as a special tribute for Clifton Davis.

Mikole Kaar on sax with
Allan deVille on trumpet

J.T. Thompson

Following a terrific performance by our own J.T. Thompson, one by one

Vegas stars, friends and fans of Kelly’s Cabaret stepped up to the mic to salute the man of the hour.

Kc Cousin

Skye Dee Miles

The fabulous line up started off with singer/musician, Kc Cousin, followed by Clint Holmes with his musical director, Jeff Neiman, ---then came the star of “Menopause the Musical,” Skye Dee Miles.
The awesome singer, Lannie Counts was up next followed by a terrific act, ventriloquist and hired hand, Steve & Jack. Then came Clifton’s old friend, singer Irma Kaye who belted out the “Happy Birthday” tune. At that point, Clifton Davis himself stepped up to perform at the piano!! Tony Drake was on guitar and it turns out he and Clifton worked together in a band ‘back in the day.’

Clint Holmes

Jeff Neiman

Lannie Counts

The fantastic singer, Tim Wells was up next followed by Lisa Gay and Tony Drake with Marcas Johnson on piano. The excitement mounted when Clifton Davis, Clint Holmes, Lannie Counts and Kc Cousin jumped in on backup for Lisa.

Clifton Davis

Steve & Jack

Tony Drake

Lisa Gay with Jazz Pianist,
Marcas Johnson

Lisa Gay

Clint Holmes, Kc Cousin, Clifton Davis, Lannie Counts

Clifton Davis singing his own song!!!!

Kelly invited all the singers up to jam together on a very familiar hit tune that Clifton Davis wrote, "Never Can Say Goodbye.” ...To Kelly's surprise, Clifton stepped back on stage and took the lead on his own tune as the other performers sang backup. Wow, what an incredible happening!!!!

Irma Kaye

Janicey Brar "Lady Day"

After Janicey Brar performed as “Lady Day,” it was time for the delighted Star of the celebration to say good night. Clifton and his wife Monica left but not before extending a big thank you to all the performers and giving the crowd a very sincere “We’ll be back!!”

Clifton Davis "We'll Be Back!!!"

Yvonne Silva

The show went on with performances by Yvonne Silva, Ralph Kuster, Nayeli Cervantes-Knuth, Yukon Jack Logan, Karra Le`Shone,` featured drummer David Hughes, Sheila McCormik, with a grand late night performance by Michelle Johnson.

Michelle Johnson & Clint Holmes

In and out all night long on the on the horns were musicians, Mikole Kaar on Alto Sax, Scott Webb on Baritone Sax, Steve Poncar on Tenor Sax, and Allan deVille on Trumpet.

Yukon Jack Logan

Ralph Kuster

Karra Le`Shone`

Nayeli Cervantes-Knuth

Sheila McCormik

David Hughes

The one and only, Kelly Clinton!!!!!

Kelly Clinton with her wonderful band, --- musical director, Mike Clark on keys, Billy Adams on drums--- along with Tony Drake and the fantastic horn players, closed out the show with Michelle Johnson and Clint Holmes joining it. And, thank you to DJ Tim Trujillo and to J.T. Thomas. Great job!

Oh what a fantastic show and exciting evening of great entertainment!!!!!

Mikole Karr & Scott Webb

Tony Drake, Mikole Karr, Steve Poncar,
Allan deVille

Special guest, Joe Lake
co-founder of The Children's Miracle Network

Kelly's Musical Director, Mike Clark on keys,

Billy Adams on drums, and Tony Drake on guitar!!!!!

Closing out the night, Kelly Clinton with Michelle Johnson

What a Night!!!!!!

Please join us this coming Monday Night for

another fantastic evening of Las Vegas

entertainment!!!

Perform, Promote Your Gig,

Dine In, Chill Out

It's Always a Blast!!!!

Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret

Showtime: 9 PM

Bootlegger Bistro

7700 Las Vegas Blvd. South

Call for dining room reservations: 702-736-4939 See You there!!!!!

The Buzz: Jam, Jive & Jazz with Kelly Clinton

2010-10-04T10:27:00.000-07:00

The sensational Kelly Clinton took the crowd by storm Monday night starting with her opening number and leading us into an evening to remember with super -talented guest performers that included Kelly heading up an unforgettable jam, a team of hoofers in a Tribute to Tap Legends, plus lots of Jazz and plenty of jive! Kelly opened with the tune “Waiting On The World” to Change --the 2007 Grammy Award winning song by John Mayer. The Blues Rock hit has been described as a song of discontent and hope…and as Kelefa Sanneh of the New York Times wrote “a lovely and anger-free ode to a vaguely dissatisfied generation.” Kelly's presentation was upbeat

and fantastic.

Update: Kelly’s foot is on the mend and she is looking forward to appearing in the extraordinary Broadway musical, “Nunsense” at the Las Vegas Hilton in a couple of more weeks.

NEWSFLASH: The incredible Clint Holmes’ performance at UNLV Saturday night was so awesome the crowd didn’t want it to ever end!!! The tribute to the music of Frank Sinatra with the Las Vegas Philharmonic was led by Sinatra’s former musical director Vincent Falcone. With the music from the original charts, Clint Holmes sang every song in Sinatra’s key. To borrow the after-the-show comment posted on FB by Bill Fayne, “A great night with the LV Philharmonic POPS...Clint Holmes and Vinnie Falcone performed the Frank Sinatra songbook....it was a masterpiece....BRILLIANT!”
On to the Cabaret

First up was the phenomenal singer/entertainer, Lannie Counts, a performer who never fails to wow us with his vocal range and musical versatility. Lannie did it again Monday night when he donned a dapper hat and gave us his awesome version of the Bobby Darin hit tune, “Mac The Knife.” The crowd stood and roared demanding more, more from Lannie Counts. That’s when Lannie, “The King of Romance” did the big style switch with a beautiful presentation of “Unchained Melody.” What a killer performance!!!! And the band was awesome!!

Lannie Counts is the headliner Sunday night , October 3, at the Bootlegger Bistro. Showtime: 8:30 PM.

We were in for a pleasant surprise when the beautiful Genevieve Dew stepped onto the stage. Kelly and Genevieve go way back to the early days of Kelly’s Monday night shows at the Bootlegger. Genevieve who is billed as “The Lady With The Golden Voice” gave a great performance of “Let’s Stay Together" followed by her very stylistic version of “Teach Me Tonight.” Dynamite!!!!!
Currently, Genevieve Dew is working with another great singer, Mark Giovi, who first appeared in Las Vegas at Kelly’s Bootlegger shows. Genevieve and Mark are developing a new act called Ebony and Ivory. Meanwhile, Genevieve plans to take her one-woman show on tour and she is now working on her second CD.

Was that Wayne Newton sitting at a nearby table? No but boy does the gentleman by the name of Neil sure look like the famous celebrity! Kelly, as many of us know, worked as a back-up singer for her friend Wayne Newton for many years and she does a great impersonation of the star.

Clint Holmes, headliner/singer/songwriter and playwright, is Kelly’s husband and one of her biggest fans. Clint just couldn’t resist jumping on stage with Kelly to do a faux interview with her Newton character!! Very funny stuff!!

Next up was the headliner from last week’s Toast of the Town afternoon show at Sam’s Town, the one and only Jeff Neiman, musical director for Clint Holmes and musician extraordinaire. And, Jeff can sing too which he showed us at the piano with his high-energy performance of Billy Joel’s signature song, “Piano Man." Yes!!!!

Kelly introduced the petite beautiful singer, Sarvi Esquivel, who gave us a hot Latin tune with a great Samba beat, “ Mais Que Nada.” Not only is Sarvi a terrific singer, she is also the producer of The Singer Search, a contest being held at various venues around town that offers an opportunity to vocalists of all styles to win some wonderful prizes.

For more details, contact Sarvi Esquivel via http://www.thesingersearch.com/

While the crew, with DJ Tim Trujillo and Bootlegger host, J.T. Thompson, were setting up the stage for the next act, Kelly began the introduction of a team of four tap dancers, including two tap legends in their own right, Van the Man and Ivory ---along with two female artists billed as Lady Diane and Helen. The amazing dance routines brought back memories of the big Las Vegas shows of yesteryear when hoofers performed at all the top venues. Ivory, who is third generation Step Brothers, said this night’s performance was a tribute to yet another great hoofer, Jimmy Slyde. Fascinating stuff. Jimmy Slyde was recognized worldwide as the “King of Slide” and was especially famous for his innovative tap style mixed with Jazz.

Add caption

One by one and then all together in a grand finale, the four fantastic dancers showed their extraordinary talent as the musical sounds delivered by the tap steps filled the room. Ivory said tap dancing was a listening experience for the audience ---and that he longs for the day when Las Vegas brings the wonderful art form back to the big stage. Oh, bring on the tap revival Las Vegas!!!!!

Talking about legends, our next performer, Johnny Butler, from the fabulous group The Coasters, was in the audience and Kelly invited him to give us a tune. Johnny Butler is known by many fans as “The King of Soul and R&B,” a well deserved accolade to this extraordinary talent. At Kelly’s request Johnny sang a personal “Happy Anniversary” tune to the parents of Steve Primak who were celebrating their 50th Wedding Anniversary on Monday night!.
.......Then it was stage center for Johnny Butler who knocked us out with his rich baritone voice on “Rainy Night in Georgia.” Oh, Johnny, Oh! What a special treat!!!!!

Next Johnny requested Kelly Clinton sing another famous “Georgia” tune, which was one of Kelly’s own signature songs in her early years of performing in Vegas, ---“Midnight Train to Georgia” by Gladys Knight and the Pips. Kelly saw the invite as an opportunity to create an awesome jam session with her great band and singers, Johnny Butler , Genevieve Dew, Lisa Gay, Lannie Counts, Kc Cousins and Andrey.

Kelly Clinton took the lead then she brought Genevieve into the spotlight followed by Lisa ---and joining in for the grand finale, the sensational Clint Holmes. The crowd went nuts. This jam was the highlight of the show!!!!!!! Unbelievable!! All Aboard!!!!

That was a tough act to follow but the next duo, Bill and Mary did a terrific job on a tune in a completely different genre, the Country pop hit, “Need You Now.” The hit song by the music group, Lady Antebellum was named the single of the year and song of the year at the 2010 Academy of Country Music Awards. Way to go Bill and Mary!

Musician/dancer/comedian, Martin Mancuso was back this week with his saxophone in hand to present an awesome medley of music with the backing of Mike Clark who did his own keyboard solo, and Billy Adams on drums. Martin and the boys in the band really rocked!!!! Martin, who lock dances like nobody can, just can’t seem to help but make the knee jerk moves as he blows that horn!!! Love it! Great musician, great dancer, and a really funny guy ---all that talent rolled up into one fantastic performer, Martin Mancuso.

Next in the spotlight came the lovely singer Lori Simpson. Lori just happened to have this Monday night off from her regular job so she headed over to Kelly’s Open Mic Cabaret to share her love of music and give us a song. Lori, a hot blond herself, did an outstanding performance of “Fever,” the tune made famous by Peggy Lee ‘back in the day.’ The crowd loved Lori and wanted more so Kelly suggested the singer give us a show tune that would speak to the crowd. That’s when Lori Simpson belted out that fabulous number from the musical of the same title, “Cabaret.” Oh yes, come on back to the Cabaret whenever you can. The crowd loves you Lori Simpson!

The very talented tribute artist Janicey Brar has to be one of the best, if not the very best Lady Day impressionist ever. Janicey’s close physical resemblance and her facial expressions along with her great vocal sound takes you right back to the days of live performances by the great Billy Holiday. Wow!! Janicey bills herself as “Lady Day” and this night she gave a fabulous presentation of “For Heaven’s Sake” from Billy Holiday’s 1958 album, Lady In Satin.
Janicey Brar tours the country as Lady Day!

One of the best things about Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret is the love sent out by the artists via their music to audience ---and, to one another. The terrific singer/musician, Kc Cousin invited other performers to join him on stage as he played the piano and sang “Help From My Friends.” The band and guest guitarist Tony Drake joined in along with Genevieve Dew, Lisa Gaye and Kelly Clinton on vocals. Kc and friends gave a fantastic show!!!!
Kc Cousin is from Youngstown, Ohio. He lived in China for two years and now makes his home in Las Vegas.

The gorgeous singer/songwriter/musician, Yvonne Silva was back this week playing her acoustic guitar and singing the tune “What Goes Around.” Singer Justin Timberlake recorded the song in 2007 and won Best Male Pop Performance at the 50th Grammy Awards. Up until a few years back, Yvonne Silva worked in the music industry but left to pursue a career in hospitality at a major hotel. Her dream is to return to her first love, performing live music. Yvonne Silva is honing her skills each week as she takes her work to the stage at the Cabaret.

Singer Ralph Kuster was back to show his versatility with his opening number, “Volare” followed by a hit tune by Frank Sinatra, “For Once in My Life.” Ralph is a lively and animated performer who has a unique style of delivering a tune. The crowd loves his musical presentations.

Diva Michelle Johnson came out to enjoy watching the Cabaret after her performance as one of the stars of the Broadway musical “Nunsense” at the Las Vegas Hilton. Michelle gave in to the pleas for a song and, as always, she blew us away with the tune, “Get Here.” Michelle Johnson is a super talented artist!!!
The musical "Nunsense" is at the Las Vegas Hilton. Showtime, 4 PM, six days a week. Dark on Tuesdays.

Wow, nineteen-year-old singer Karra Le`Shone` really knocked our socks off with her hot presentation of “It Kills Me” by Melanie Fiora. Young, beautiful, sexy and so talented too, Karra turned on the crowd with her “ooh hoo ohh” delivery of the song lyrics.
Yes, Karra Le`Shone` is one fine singer!

The dynamic duo, Lisa Gay and Tony Drake did it again with a marvelous performance of “The Nearness of You." The fantastic Lisa Gay sent out her wonderful vocal tones on a second number “On a Clear Day” ---the tune that has become one of their signature songs here at the Cabaret--- while her partner, the awesome musician Tony Drake rocked on the guitar.
Lisa Gay & Tony Drake are featured performers at the Freakin’ Frog, a popular Jazz club located across from UNLV. They will be headlining at the Frog again on Friday night, October 8.

As the end of another phenomenal evening of entertainment at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret drew near, the talented R&B singer Samuel Lewis stepped up to give a wonderful performance of “Always and Forever” by Heat Wave..... Samuel Lewis crooned that romantic tune, added a bit of sweet talk and wound up his performance with a powerful ending. Yes!!! Samuel Lewis is a ‘smooth operator’ when it comes to wowing the crowd with his remarkable vocal style.

Singer/songwriter Princess Madelaina returned to the stage with her terrific version of “Killing Me Softly,” the major hit song recorded in 1973 by Roberta Flack. (Where does the time go?) Thanks to performers like the Princess who cover the tune, the song is still killing us softly more than 30 years later.

Kelly introduced the final performer of the night, the very good-looking, talented singer and Bootlegger Host, J.T. Thompson who gave us an excellent closing performance of the Michael Buble` tune, “It’s A New Life.” Great job J.T.!!!

Thanks to all the entertainers and the A-Team members who always make Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro a great show on Monday nights: Maestro, Mike Clark, Drummer, Billy Adams, J.T. Thompson and the newest team member, DJ, Tim Trujillo.

And special thanks to
the one and only,
super-talented artist
who makes it all happen,
Kelly Clinton!!!

Join Us for the Best
Monday Night Show in Town

Perform, Promote Your Gig
Dine In, Chill Out

It’s Always a Blast at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret
Showtime: 9 PM
Bootlegger Bistro
7700 Las Vegas Blvd. South
Dining Room Reservations: 702-736-4939

More Snapshots from Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret, Monday, September 27.

Just a few.....check Facebook for more later in the week!!!!!

Steve Primak with his parents.
50th Wedding Anniversary Celebration

The Divas, The Blues & The Buzz

2010-08-21T16:19:00.000-07:00

Kelly Clinton lip syncs as

Michelle Johnson vocalizes

some funny stuff

"Unpredictable" is what we say about the fantastic show, Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret --and the star host, Kelly Clinton. Yet, those of us who have been at the Cabaret week after week know it’s always a fantastic evening of entertainment!!…..And, as always this week’s show was "unbelievable!!"

The dynamic Kelly Clinton was back this Monday night after spending an exciting week in NYC. She opened rocking out on the 1970’s tune, "New Orleans" --and just for the fun of it, Kaci Machacyk and Lisa Gay jumped in on backup.

Kelly, Kaci & Lisa Disco

Left to R, Perry Paschall (rear), Dr. Warren Wheeler, Jonathan Bollas,
Diana Paschall, Bill Bayne, Kelly Clinton, Ellie Clinton Issa

Right after that-- Kelly’s mom and some of the fans stepped on stage. They were there to personally present her with flowers and her 2010 Bella Award as “Las Vegas Female Entertainer.” The group, along with Lena Prima, had honored Kelly by attending last Monday’s award ceremony while she was in New York. Gotta’ love friends and family!! Congratulations Kelly Clinton!!!!!
Kelly Clinton will be starring in the new Las Vegas production show, "Nunsense," opening at the Las Vegas Hilton in mid-September!!!! More updates in the weeks ahead.
On To the Cabaret of Entertainers

Skip Mercier

Skip Mercier was first up at the mic with a wonderful rendition of "Smoke Gets in your Eyes," by The Platters. Then Skip put on his shades and changed the beat with his second tune as he rocked out on "You Got It."

Skip Mercier is a veteran performer who started his successful career in the music business back in the 1960's. After nearly 10 years in retirement, Skip is back in the spotlight and singing great!!
Catch Skip Mercier at the Fiesta Henderson from 3 PM - 6 PM on the 2nd Wednesday of every month.

Don Gloude

Coincidentally, out in the crowd was the fabulous baritone Don Gloude who sings with The Platters.

Don got up later in the show with a fantastic presentation of "What Kind of Fool Am I." Wow, can this man sing!!! Don Gloude has an incredible voice.

We all love to be a part of discovering new talent
and watching them develop into pro entertainers.

Alex Christopher

That’s how Kelly Clinton and many others got their start in the Vegas entertainment industry. Kelly was age 19 when she showcased at Frank Link’s Maxim Showcase at the old Maxim Hotel. In just a couple of months Kelly was playing the lounges in many of the big name hotel/casinos in town. With that being her own close-to-the-heart experience, Kelly always welcomes young and upcoming performers to her Open Mic Cabaret.

Monday night we had several young performers who are getting an early start in show biz. First up was 16 year-old singer Alex Christopher, a young man with a terrific voice and a super personality. Alex gave a wonderful performance on the Frank Sinatra tune, “Strangers In the Night.” Dooby, dooby doo…. Later in the show Alex Christopher was back to blow us away with his French lyrics on “La Vie En Rose.” Everyone was really impressed! Alex did a fantastic show!!!

Karra Le` Shone`

Vincent Allis

Sophie Story

Talk about young talent, musician/singer Sophie Story was in town visiting her family this week. Her grandmother talked the 14 year-old performer into coming by to give us a show….Sophie sings with her band back in Florida so she appeared very comfortable going for it with the great Cabaret musicians.

The lovely Sophie Story did a beautiful rendition of “Oh Darling.” And, she also plays bass!!!
Another up and coming singer with a fabulous voice, Karra Le`Shone` was back this week to perform songs by Aretha Franklin. The 19 year-old, Karra really showed her stuff on “Natural Women,” so, when the crowd wanted more she used her powerful voice getting down on “Chain, Chain, Chain.” Oh yes, Karra rocks!
Oh, you really had to be there to get the full impact of musician Vincent Allis playing the Blues on harmonica with the band. The 21 year-old rocked the house. The crowd was moving and grooving with the music. It was awesome. Everyone wanted Vincent to come back again but Vincent said he was here on vacation from the Seattle area and didn‘t know when he would ever be back. Keep an eye on Vincent Allis, we read somewhere he plays fantastic guitar too!!

Kaci Machacyk

We’ve all been watching the next young lady growing and developing into a confident stage performer, singer, budding actress and polished web TV host. The beautiful Kaci Machacyk has a wonderful soprano voice and she gave us a great rendition of “Till There Was You.”

Kaci Machacyk & Lisa Gay

Then Kaci invited Lisa Gay to the stage for a duet of the hot disco

tune “Last Dance.” Yes, Kaci and Lisa rocked the house.

Check out Kaci on web TV: http://www.vegas5w.com/

Michelle Johnson

The Divas

Several of our leading Las Vegas Divas were in the house. First up to perform was the super talented Michelle Johnson who sent out a song to her good friend and sister-Diva, Lena Prima. With such a busy life in show biz, Michelle said we often miss staying in touch with our friends. Michelle gave a fantastic performance of the message tune, "Get Here."
Michelle Johnson is sensational.
Michelle Johnson 'let the cat out of the bag' making the first public announcement saying she and sister-Diva, Kelly Clinton are starring in the upcoming off-broadway hit musical "Nunsense" at the Las Vegas Hilton. Monday was the first day of rehearsals for the Las Vegas production.
Top of the page photo: Before Michelle left the stage Kelly Clinton was back on and the two entertainers got into a very funny bit where Michelle stood vocalizing behind Kelly as Kelly mouthed the words to some really funny stuff aimed at Kelly's husband, Clint Holmes. The bit was hysterical.

Lena Prima

Later in the show, Singer/songwriter/recording artist/ Lena Prima gave us fantastic rendition of “The Rose.” Her performance took place not on stage but from a side booth where she had been watching the show. Nevertheless, thanks to the magic of Kevin Cordova, Lena had the spotlight on her during her outstanding presentation. Joining in on a few verses from the next booth were Kelly Clinton, Michelle Johnson and special guest, celebrated Musician/singer/songwriter and record producer, Trevor Veitch. Wow!!

Kelly, Trevor Veitch & Michelle

Lena Prima’s new CD album is playing on the radio at 97.1 The Point. Check out her website at http://www.lenaprimamusic.com/
for more on Lena’s recordings. Lena Prima will headline at the Edgewater Hotel & Casino in Laughlin, NV over the Labor Day weekend.

Lisa Gay & Tony Drake

Here’s Tony….. The awesome guitarist Tony Drake that is, and his Diva wife, Lisa Gay, were back at the Cabaret this week to give us a show. Lisa and Tony sent out their first tune to a couple of friends in the audience, the birthday boys, Jonathan Bollas and Dr. Warren Wheeler. It was a very special song that Lisa and Tony perform for dear friends and they did an awesome presentation of “Quiet Nights and Quiet Stars.” Then Lisa let lose with the moves and the riffs on “Sweet Thing” while Tony played some really hot guitar.
Lisa Gay & Tony Drake are opening the show at Hot August Nights in Las Vegas on Saturday, August 21 at 11 AM. They also have a new CD album “Life, Love & Music." You can get it at Amazon.com and at Lisa Gay and the Gentlemen of Thrill on My Space.

Lannie Counts

The crowd can never get enough of Singer/entertainer Lannie Counts who was back this week with an incredible performance of “Easy” by Lionel Richie. Lannie is truly a sensational vocalist who can sing any style of music. The fans wanted more so Lannie Counts gave them a second number, the romantic ballad, “Long Ago.” Woo, woo!!!

Lannie Counts recently released his latest CD on ReberbNation. Get it now at www.reverbnation.com/Lannie
Lannie is also appearing at Hot August Nights in Las Vegas on Sunday, August 22 at 4:25 PM.

Without further ado, we want to applaud and shout out about Kelly Clinton’s fabulous Cabaret band!! Musical director, Mike Clark on keys, Billy Adams on drums, and sitting in again this week, the awesome guitarist, Tony Drake, played all night giving out the music that makes everyone feel so good!!! They are the best!!!! DJ/special effects guy, Kevin Cordova is also a member of the team that brings us the music via tracks for some of the singers. We love you guys!!!

Ken Young

Vocalist, Ken Young dropped in to give us a fabulous rendition of "What’s Going On." The crowd loved Ken and wanted more! Just before he started his second number Clint Holmes joined him on stage jamming with a terrific ad lib scat duo. Then Ken Young wowed the crowd with his incredible version of the tune, “Inseparable.”

When he is not working his day job as a Lieutenant with the CCSD Police Department, Ken Young frequently performs with Gladys Knight.

Ken Young with Clint Holmes

Rob Connor

The awesome singer, Rob Connor stepped up to blow us a away with his fantastic performance of “My Funny Valentine.” Rob worked as an entertainer for about 15 years before taking on the job of teaching music. Although he now devotes his life to teaching students at Las Vegas Academy High School, Rob Connor’s performance at the Cabaret was a compliment to his super talent as an outstanding vocalist. More info on Rob Connor on FB.

Rabbit & Shoo

For a real change of pace a couple of Star Search winners, Rabbit and Shoo, from the group The Footlockers, hit the stage with their high-energy lock dance, Primetime. We all know Musician/dancer, Martin Mancuso (Rabbit), but Dancer/singer, Robert Huffman (Shoo) is a new face at the Cabaret. The colorful act, The Footlockers, put on an exciting show.

Later, Robert Huffman was back on stage for his wonderful vocal solo of “You Make Me Feel Brand New.”

Ned Towns

"The Blues Man” Ned Towns knocked us out with the Miles Davis tune, “Red China Blues.” Ned has a lot of credits in the music industry. Just to mention a few, he’s recorded with Atlantic Records, self-produced music and he toured with Otis Redding.

Mississippi born Ned Towns is now living and recording music and videos in Las Vegas. www.NedTowns.com

Yvonne Silva

Vocalist/musician, Yvonne Silva was back this week singing and strumming her guitar on the acoustic version of the dance-pop tune, “Black and Gold” by Sam Sparro. The lovely song-stylist decided to keep her day job while she works her way back into the Las Vegas music industry that she truly loves.
The popular Yvonne Silva has appeared at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret several times in the last few months.

Michael Love

The high-energy performer with a great voice, Michael Love, was on stage this week with ‘a whole new fashion statement.’ (photo). Michael Love did a marvelous performance of the Luther Vandross hit “If Only For One Night.”

Christy Parks

Next up was a petite young lady visiting from North Carolina, Christy Parks who gave us her unique rendition of "Proud Mary."

As we got closer to the end of another great evening of Cabaret entertainment, Kevin Cordova was joined by Michelle Johnson on “Anything for Love.” Kevin sang in his powerful voice with Michelle coming in on the softer verses. It was a terrific performance!!

Princess

Robert Toto

Next up was singer, “Princess” Madelaina. Princess gave a terrific performance of the Johnny Mathis hit tune, “Misty.”

The grand finale came when singer Robert Toto gave a wonderful Opera version of the beautiful Spanish tune, "Granada." Robert Toto was at the show with other members representing The Rolls Royce Club.

Kelly Clinton says Good Night!

Kelly Clinton thanked everyone who performed Monday night and gave a special thank you the wonderful musicians, the phenomenal Mike Clark on keys, the hot drummer Billy Adams, and sitting in, the awesome guitarist Tony Drake. Kelly’s thanks also went to J.T. Thompson of the Bootlegger Bistro and the marvelous DJ/special effects man, Kevin Cordova.

Kelly Clinton was last seen leaving the building with her Bella Award and bouquets in hand!

Tony Drake & Trevor Veitch

Two incredible musicians and recording artists, Tony Drake and special guest, Trevor Veitch talk guitars after the show.

Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret
Showtime: 9PM - Monday Nights
Bootlegger Bistro,
7700 Las Vegas Blvd. So.
Dining room reservations: 702-736-4939
Come on Down!!!
Perform, Promote Your Gig,
Dine In, Chill Out.......It's Always A Blast!!!

**Note: Blogger will be on break for the next few weeks.

Kelly's Bella Award, Skye & Cabaret Entertainers

2010-08-15T10:55:00.000-07:00

Monday night, August 9th, was a thrilling evening of excitement and fun for everyone involved in Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret. There was great entertainment at the Cabaret featuring guest host Skye Dee Miles --in New York City at the Friars Club “Salute to Clint Holmes”--and in The Arts District in Downtown Las Vegas where Kelly Clinton-Holmes was honored with the 2010 Bella Award for “Las Vegas Female Entertainer.”

In Kelly’s absence (she was in NYC) Lena Prima picked up the Bella for Kelly along with Kelly’s mom, Ellie Clinton Issa. Several close friends also attended the event before heading over to the Bootlegger for the Cabaret.

As we all know, Kelly Clinton-Holmes is a sensational entertainer and one who is generous in sharing her stage and in encouraging her fellow entertainers --oftentimes providing bookings for them to work. Fellow entertainer, Steve Connolly hosted the Bella Awards and spoke about not only what ‘a talented artist Kelly is and one who is a pleasure to work with’ --he also said, that ‘Kelly Clinton-Holmes “is a great asset to this city.” Thank you Steve Connolly for saying your gracious words and your "It's all true" comment after the award show.

The plan is to present the 2010 Bella Award for “Las Vegas Female Entertainer” to Kelly Clinton-Holmes, in person, this Monday night at her Open Mic Cabaret.

On to the Cabaret:

The fabulous Skye Dee Miles did a fantastic job of hosting the Cabaret. Love Skye! She’s such an awesome singer, entertainer, --and she stars in ‘Menopause the Musical” at the Luxor.
Go see that show, we just read an announcement that Skye Dee Miles is up for a big award for her role in the musical!!
Skye Dee Miles will perform at Hot August Nights in Las Vegas on Sunday, August 22, at 7:40 PM. The three-day event at Town Square benefits "For Kids Now" and "Opportunity Village."

There was plenty of great entertainment at the Cabaret including big name stars, super popular performers and new Las Vegas acts. The photoplay starts here:
The fantastic Skye Dee Miles gave an 'hot, hot' performance of "Evil Gal Blues!"

Tim Wells

Next up was the incredible singer, Tim Wells with a fantastic rendition
of the Stevie Wonder tune, "Overjoyed" followed by a popular
demand performance of, "Stand by Me."

Jimmy Hopper

The popular headliner,
Jimmie Hopper
went to the grand piano to give his fantastic performance of "Hallelujah"
and "Walking in Memphis."
Jimmy Hopper will be appearing at Ovation in Green Valley Ranch, on September 5, at 8PM. Celebrate Labor Day weekend with Jimmy.

Lannie Counts

The incredible vocalist/entertainer, Lannie Counts
gave us a

'killer performance' of the romantic tune, "Angel Eyes."

Lannie Counts has a brand new CD. Check it out at www.ReberbNation.com/Lannie

Lannie Counts will be appearing at the 1st Annual Hot August Nights

event at Town Square on Sunday, August 22, at 4:25 PM.

Michael Cagle

The powerful singer Michael Cagle gave us his all on Two "Out of Three Ain't Bad". Then Michael really started something when he called for a "Jam" on the 1970's hit tune "Lean on Me." Jamm'rs, Skye Dee Miles, Lannie Counts and Michael Cagle were a bit surprised but very pleased when three other awesome singers, Buffie Lucas, Cassandra Davis-Brett and Rashida Jordan, joined them on stage for a real 'big blast' performance....What a show. It was terrific.

Michael Cagle will also be appearing at Hot August Nights on Sunday, August 22 at 2:15 PM.

Irma Kaye

The lady in red, the wonderful singer Irma Kaye took on the spirit of "Lady Day" Billy Holiday with a terrific performance of "God Bless the Child." Irma added a bit of fashion fun with a sexy fringed garter belt.

Down boys.

Margeaux Davis

Wow, we all got to see Broadway musical star Margeaux Davis singing her orginal tunes right here at Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret!! Margeaux played the "Seasons of Love Soloist in the Tony Award Winning Broadway Play "Rent." We were so happy she stopped by to perform for us last Monday night. Just 24 years-old, Margeaux has plenty of credits under her belt and she rocked the crowd with her fantastic performance. We want to see more of Margeaux next time she gets back to our town. Meanwhile, check her music out at www.reverbnation.com/Margeaux "The Essence of Soul"

Singer and songwriter George Dare gave a wonderful performance of a tune by Bob Seger, "Turn the Page." Along with having a fabulous voice, George Dare has written all kinds of music including some very popular hit jingles.

George Dare

Tribute artist, Mike Greenwood did an excellent performance of the Roy Orbison hit song, "Crying." Wonderful singing Mike.

Mike Greenwood

Michael Louis Austin

Michael Brett

Next came the trio of performers known around the open mic circuit as the band, Blue Sky Mind. They are perhaps better known individually as singer/actress, Cassandra Davis-Brett, guitarist/keyboards/vocalist, Michael Brett, and a newcomer to Las Vegas, Michael Louis Austin, also vocals, guitar and keys. The band presented all original tunes --the first one as a group, then each artist gave a solo performance of their own tune.

Lisa Gay

Cassandra Davis-Brett

Cassandra Davis-Brett played the lead in the 2009 musical, "Once Upon This Island" at Spring Mountain State Park.

Lisa Gay & Tony Drake

The fabulous Lisa Gay and Tony Drake had the crowd swinging with "Could It Be I'm Falling in Love."
Lisa was sending out those awesome vocal riffs as Tony rocked that guitar --and then Skye jumped in for a bit on backup. So hot!!!

Lisa Gay & Tony Drake will be performing at the big fundraising event, Hot August Nights on Saturday, August 21 at 11 AM.
Go to http://www.hotaugustnightsinlasvegas.com/ to see the list of many performers who are scheduled to appear.

Bootlegger host, J.T. Thompson is back from Alaska. J.T. took right back to the mic to croon a the George Michael tune, "Round Here." Beautiful job J.T.

J. T. Thompson

Miz Buffie Lucas

The very popular singer with a great voice

Miz Buffie Lucas rocked us out with the

Michael Jackson tune, "Rock" With You."

Buffie is one HOT entertainer!

Miz Buffie Lucas starred in the cast

of the musical "Once On This Island."

Rashida Jordan

Rashida Jordan is on the road a lot touring the music circuit but she's back in town right now performing and promoting her new CD, "Insanity." We got to see Rashida perform

her original tune live!!

Rashida Jordan's new CD, "Insanity" is

available now at Amazon.com

Vernell Brown Jr.

Top Jazz musicians Vernell Brown Jr. and Doc T, of the popular group Spectrum, gave us a terrific rendition of the kind of music they are best

known for. Their performance was awesome.

Vernell & Doc T

Vernell Brown Jr. is a well-known recording artist in the world of Jazz. He and Doc T, aka, Roy Turner have received plenty of raves for their wonderful performances inside the Las Vegas club scene. They appear at the Freakin' Frog on Friday nights and a number of other venues in Las Vegas. Check out http://www.vernellbrownjr.com/

The exciting singer, Tupua "Tony" Ainu'u gave a great show on the Josh Turner tune, "Your Man." Tupua wowed the crowd with his awesome baritone voice!!!! Woo hoo!!

Judith Marinelli Hayek

Singer Judith Marinelli Hayek, an entertainer who loves to dress up for a show, tossed her hat and tambourine on stage to give us a couple of her favorite tunes.
We always enjoy Judith's show.

Ralph Kuster

Branson, Missouri singer, Ralph Kuster, stopped by to perform
at Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret. Ralph did a fine performance of the Frank Sinatra tunes "Nice and Easy'" and, "My Way."

Cara

The lovely young singer, Cara gave a terrific performance
of the Aretha Franklin hit, "Chain of Fools."

Michael Love

The fabulous singer, Michael Love returned
to the Cabaret for another sensational
presentation of "One In A Million."

Last up to close out one more great
evening of entertainment was Christine
(no pic) who did a fine job on the finale number, "I'm Beginning to
See the Light."

Special thanks to Skye Dee Miles for doing such a great job guest hosting the Cabaret. Thanks also go to the great musicians playing all night long, musical director, Mike Clark on keys, Billy Adams on drums, and sitting in, guest guitarist, Tony Drake.
And, we were really happy to see super DJ/special effects guy, Kevin Cordova back on the job --and,

Kevin Cordova (r)

Bootlegger host,
J.T. Thompson.

KELLY CLINTON WILL BE BACK THIS WEEK!!
Please join us!!
Perform, Promote Your Gig,
Dine In, Chill Out
It's Always a Blast!!!
Showtime: 9 PM @ Bootlegger Bistro, 7700 Las Vegas Blvd. South
Dining room reservations: 702-736-4939

Satire, Songs & Sensational Entertainers

2010-08-08T12:24:00.000-07:00

Monday night, Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret got off to a magnificent start with a hilarious opening act!!! Kelly added one more character to her satirical take on the star characters from the Wizard of Oz. Kelly Clinton played Dorothy, Lena Prima portrayed Scarecrow, and the latest addition to the ensemble cast, Mark O’Toole played Lion. The very original --and very funny-- skit is based on each character’s tale of “life after Oz.’ Mark O’Toole’s intro performance of Lion was hysterical. The costumes were magnificient! The skit is a collaborative writing effort by the cast with the newest song lyrics for Lion written by Clint Holmes. The audience was bursting with laughter and applauding with glee during the entire performance. What a great opening for one more fabulous night of Cabaret entertainment.!!!!
Note: The house was even more packed than ever, so much so that in the main dining room, the tables flowed onto the edge of the stage area and the standing room only crowd filled the rest of the Bootlegger!!

Newsflash: Clint Holmes is being honored by the Friars Club this Monday, August 9, in NYC.
Kelly Clinton-Holmes is being honored with the 9th Annual Bella Award as “Las Vegas Female Star Entertainer” on that very same evening here in town.
However, Kelly will be performing at the Friars Club event with Leigh Zimmerman who is currently starring on Broadway as ‘Velma” in Chicago: The Musical. Kelly will play ‘Mama’ to Leigh’s ‘Velma’ in a duet performance of the show tune "Class."
A group of Kelly’s fans will be at the Bella Award event before heading over to the Cabaret on Monday night.

The Skye’s the Limit!!! Just in case you are wondering who will be hosting Kelly Clinton Open Mic Cabaret on August 9th, here's the scoop: The guest host will be the sensational Skye Dee Miles, star of Menopause the Musical at the Luxor !!! That should be a fun night!! When it comes to entertainers, Skye truly is the LIMIT!!!

On to the Cabaret:

The phenomenal singer Lannie Counts kicked off the Cabaret line up with his awesome performance of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You.” The packed-house crowd demanded MORE and Lannie went into a soft, then really powerful rendition of “Summer Wind.” Lannie Counts is one of the greatest singers ever to perform at Kelly’s Cabaret!!

Lannie Counts just released a beautiful new CD. Check it out at http://reverbnation.com/lannie

With a whole new look about her, the terrific singer Laurie Cook was back with her fantastic drummer, L.J. to give us a hot performance of the 1960’s tune, "New Orleans."

Laurie Cook and her band will be performing along with 28 other bands over the three-day fundraising event, Hot August Nights in Las Vegas at Town Square. Proceeds go to the “For Kids Now” Charity. The dates are August 20, 21, 22. For more details go to http://www.hotaugustnightsinlasvegas.com/

Aside from his love of singing, Michael Cagle seems to be driven by the three 'Ds' that could 'make it happen big' in the music world: Determination, Development and Desire. The buzz going around says Michael is heading in the right direction. It seemed so very apropos Monday night when Michael gave us a really powerful and fantastic performance of “Go the Distance.”

Michael Cagle was overjoyed to “let the cat out of the bag” Monday night when he announced some really big career news. Michael has been offered the opportunity to sing on the soundtrack of George Clooney’s upcoming movie. Get this now-- music giants Burt Bacharach and Quincy Jones are involved in the project!!!!

One of Kelly’s favorite singers to work with is Elisa Fiorillo. The sensational singer has been touring the world for the past couple of months with the artist, Prince. When she is in town, Elisa frequently performs at the exclusive Stirling Club with Kelly Clinton. This night Elisa Fiorillo graced the Cabaret stage with an original tune she wrote while on tour. She titled her very meaningful and beautiful song “Be There.” Wow.! She is such a super talented singer!!!

Next it was Kelly Clinton and Elisa Fiorillo performing the satiral duet “Class” from the musical Chicago. ...If that wasn’t enough to blow us away, the two phenomenal chick singers performed a counterpoint duet recorded by Judy Garland and Barbra Streisand. Kelly sang "Get Happy" while Elisa sang "Happy Days Are Here Again." This was truly a great performance!!!!

M Resort headliner, Mark O’Toole was up next with his absolutely fantastic performance of the Michael Buble` arrangement of “Cry Me a River.” Wow, can this fellow croon a tune!!!! ---And, from what we saw earlier in the show, he’s a really funny guy.

Mark O’Toole headlines in the Ravello Theater at the M Resort in Henderson on Saturdays from 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM. He also appears frequently at the Stirling Club in Las Vegas and other venues in Laughlin, Nevada.

We were in for a real treat when the former star of the Lido De Paris, Jim Hodge, stepped up to the mic. For many of us it was the first time we’ve ever seen Jim perform, but for others it was one of the many times Jim has given them a show. At 83 years old, and still looking like ‘a Fox,’ Jim Hodge gave a wonderful performance of "Come Fly With Me."
Aside from starring in the Lido show Jim has appeared in many Las Vegas big room show productions. Here’s a tidbit we learned Monday night: Jim Hodges didn’t get into show business until he was about 30 years old. His first time out he landed a job with Betty Grable in her Las Vegas show. Nice work Jim.
P.S. If you recall a few weeks back Sheri and Mel Myers celebrated their 29th wedding anniversary with us. As it turns out this week, Sheri was very excited to announce it was Jim Hodge who sang at their wedding!!!

We had a triple show of comedians, each one performing their own act last Monday night.

Starting off the laughs was Barbara Bailey who gave her take on Phyllis Diller as "the Lady Gaga of the Geratol set." .....Later in the show came Shelley Fisher with her comedic take on life as a menopausal women..... Last of the comics standing at the mic was the dapper looking Derrick Stroman with his tale of the astonishing revelations of a newcomer to Las Vegas.

Las Vegas headliner Clint Holmes stepped on stage --and as he always does-- he blew us away with his incredible performance of “Since I Fell For You.” The band, with Mike Clark on keys, Billy Adams on drums, and sitting in for the night, Tony Drake on guitar, was so awesome. Tony Drake did a knock out solo, then he and Clint did a vocal and guitar scat run that absolutely killed!!! It’s always a very special moment when Clint Holmes performs at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret!!!!

Just as Clint was stepping off stage we heard a voice from behind the scenes sending out a few notes. It was the fabulous voice of Skye Dee Miles who appeared on stage as Kelly introduced her. Skye was sending out those hot and sexy vibes sounds we all love to hear from her --that’s when she caught the eye of Clint Holmes who just couldn’t resist getting back on stage to exchange a few vocal adlibs with Skye. There was some 'hot stuff ' going on vocally --then moments later a 'freaked out wife' named Kelly Clinton stepped in between the two with a ‘no way’ arm motion ---but that didn’t stop anything. So Kelly ran off in a huff and grabbed herself a good looking guy to make Clint jealous!! Of course it was all in fun and the crowd enjoyed every moment of this crazy stuff.

The fans go wild whenever Skye Dee Miles performs and this night she really got into the Blues with Got “My Mojo Working.”

Skye is a sensational entertainer and we are all looking forward to her guest hosting Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret this upcoming Monday night.
Skye is one hot babe!!!

We love to see seasoned entertainers come in to perform at this Cabaret show when they just happen to be in Vegas on a Monday night. The next act, singer/songwriter and guitarist, Andrew James Hughes took his place on stage to play and sing his own original alternative/rock tune.
Andrew is from Asbury Park, New Jersey. He has a really great voice and there’s no mistaking that Jersey/ Springsteen vibe he sends out with his cool sound. Andrew’s been working the East Coast music circuit for many years. Thanks for dropping by Andrew James Hughes --and for giving us a great show. www.myspace.com/andrewjameshughes

Lisa Gay and Tony Drake took over the stage next with a couple of really hot tunes,“Let’s Get Together” followed by “You Make Me feel Brand New.” Nobody plays the guitar better than Tony Drake!! ..Lisa Gay has it all on the vocals and this time her moves were 'extra hot' as she played that tambourine like nobody’s business! With Tony leading, the band was awesome. Check out the photos to see Lisa's cool new look as she shakes it playing hot tampourine .

Lisa Gay and Tony Drake have just recorded a new CD called, “Life, Love & Music.” It should be available right now on Amazon.com and My Space. Check under Lisa Gay and the Gentlemen of Thrill.

The powerful singer, Irma Kaye was next on stage giving her fantastic performance of that incredible tune, “At Last.” She’s sexy, she's got a super voice --and, she has quite a number of videos linked to her Facebook page so you can check out more performances by the talented Irma Kaye.

The fabulous singer, Skip Mercier was back to perform for the second week in a row and the crowd gave him a really big welcome back. Skip gave us a extraordinary performance of the 1969 hit by Tom Jones, I’ll “ Never Fall In Love Again.”

Skip Mercier retired about 10 years ago following a professional career in the music business that spanned over four decades. Just to mention one highlight of his early career, Skip appeared in the 1964 movie, “Bikini Beach” starring Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello. Last November, Skip made a decision to get back to performing and immediately started working on his vocals. Now, Skip Mercier performs live from 3 PM - 6 PM on the second Wednesday of every month in the Cerveza Cantina at the Fiesta Henderson.

The lovely and talented Julie Pajuheshfar took her place at the grand piano to play and sing her beautiful original tune, “Your Eyes.” She has a wonderful voice and her performance was superb.

Julie is only 19 years old and she just completed her first year of college. As Kelly put it, 'Julie is beautiful, talented --and she's smart too!!'

Another gorgeous young woman, Yvonne Silva was back this week with her guitar in hand to give us a wonderful performance of the rock ballad version of “Love Hurts.”

A few years ago, Yvonne left entertainment for a career in the hotel/casino industry. She missed performing so much she decided to get back to the Las Vegas music scene starting right here at the Cabaret. Good luck Yvonne Silva.

Trace Taylor was back this week performing in her unique, offbeat style of delivering a tune. This week she presented her version of that popular standard, “I’m In the Mood for Love.”

Last to perform was a newcomer to Las Vegas, singer/musician Aaron Stevens. The 23 year-old performer had no idea what a special request he was making when he asked the master guitarist Tony Drake to lend him his guitar. Tony was gracious enough to do it!!! Aaron Stevens went on to give a terrific performance of the Otis Redding tune, "Dock of the Bay." He rocked!!!
Little does Aaron know that Tony Drake has recorded and performed with some of the biggest names in the business while playing that very same guitar!!!
P.S., Aaron Stevens said he’s been to many open mic nights up and down the East Coast but this one is 'the best ever!'

That wraps up one more fantastic evening of entertainment at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret. Before her final goodnight, Kelly gave another intro and expressed a big thank you to her A-team members, musical director, Mike Clark, drummer Billy Adams, DJ, Jake Klein filling in for Kevin Cordova, plus special thanks to Tony Drake for sitting in with the band and to everyone with the Bootlegger Bistro.

Kelly also thanked Billy Adams sister, Darlene for coming to the show -- then she sent out a very special thank-you to Kaci Machacyk and and Kaci's Dad, Tommy Vinci, for their great help with the opening number and for keeping the long line-up of entertainers going smoothly all night long.

Don’t forget, Skye Dee Miles will guest host for Kelly this coming Monday, August 9th,!!!
Come on Down!!
Perform, Promote Your Gig
Dine In, Chill Out
It’s Always a Blast!!!

Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret, Monday Night Show - 9 PM
Bootlegger Bistro,
7700 Las Vegas Blvd. So.
Dining room reservations: 702-736-4939

Soulful Music, Broadway Rhythm & All That Jazz

2010-07-31T19:05:00.000-07:00

The dynamic Kelly Clinton set the stage for an evening of fantastic entertainment when she kicked off her Monday night Open Mic Cabaret with her hot rendition of “Jump, Jive an' Wail” by Louis Prima. It was Kelly’s tribute to the late, great Louis Prima who was recently honored with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame ..... Mike Clark, Billy Adams and guest guitarist, Tony Drake were doing their share of wailing as Kaci Machacyk and Lisa Gay jumped in and did the jive thing on backup for Kelly…The crowd loved it and what followed was a fantastic line up of ‘jumpin, jiving and wailing’ performers.

Congratulations to Kelly Clinton!!!

Kelly Clinton has been selected to receive the upcoming 9th Annual Bella Award for “Las Vegas Female Entertainer.” The Bella Award is a prestigious award presented to outstanding Nevadan’s for their example of Lifestyle, Entertainment, and Fashion. Among some of the previous recipients have been, Sue Manteris, Mayor Oscar Goodman, John Huck, The Platters, The Coasters, and Andre Aggasi. .....

Kelly Clinton will be in New York on that evening so her best friend, Lena Prima, along with Kelly’s mom, Ellie Clinton Issa, will be accepting the award in her absence.

The event, The Art of Fashion -Meets-The Arts District will be held on August 9th at 6 PM at the Southern Nevada Center for the Arts, Studio One, 1310 S. 3rd St in Las Vegas. No cost and we can make it back to the Bootlegger in plenty of time for dinner and Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret.
We will remind everyone next Monday night.

On to the Cabaret:

Starting off at the open mic was the beautiful and truly remarkable singer, Barbara Pasqui. The powerful vocalist with a style all her own gave a super performance of the song “Until You Come Back to Me.” She really knocked us out!! Barbara was back later in the show with another outstanding presentation.

Barbara Pasqui is appearing on Saturday nights with Howie Gold at Ichabod’s on E. Flamingo.

The fabulous duo, Lisa Gay and Tony Drake returned this week to bring back some old memories with a wonderful performance of “I’ll Never Love This Way Again” by Dionne Warwick. Wow, with Lisa on vocals and Tony on guitar they never fail to give a great show. This night they brought on guest musician/ sax player Mikole Kaar who joined them on their second tune, “Sonny.” Mikole Kaar can blow that horn,!! Tony Drake is one awesome guitar player and Lisa Gay is a really hot vocalist!!!
Lisa Gay and Tony Drake have worked with some of the biggest stars in music including Marilyn McCoo, Billy Davis, Jr., Lou Rawls and many, many more.

Kelly introduced the amazing singer/musician and musical director Bill Fayne who made a special appearance to accompany our next performer, the beautiful singer, Kaci Machacyk. It was ‘The Tenor’ on piano and ‘The Soprano’ on vocals as the two performed a fantastic version of “Think of Me,” from Phantom of the Opera. The song was one of those Kaci performed in her own show recently at the Liberace Museum. Next Kaci sang the delightful tune “Happy Working Song,” from Disney’s 'Enchanted'.

Kaci Machacyk received rave reviews from everyone who saw her show, “The Soprano” a few weeks ago at the Liberace Musuem. Among her other talents, Kaci hosts the web broadcast Vegas 5W. Check it out at http://www.vegas5w.com/
Bill Fayne is currently hosting “Toast of the Town” at Sam’s Town on Thursdays. Bill is always writing and composing music and he continues to appear with the Las Vegas Tenors as they tour the world.

The incredible pianist, Danny Wright was up next with a fantastic performance of “Don’t Cry Argentina” followed by his beautiful original composition, “Wings of Hope.” When you see Danny Wright perform you know why he has been described as “… a warmly romantic composer and an exquisite pianist with the gentlest, most expressive hands on the keys.” We saw that here at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret.
Danny Wright is considered one of Instrumental music’s finest performers. He has sold over 4 million CDs since his debut album in 1986. In 1992 and 1994 Danny Wright was named by Billboard Magazine as a Top 10 artist in his genre. Currently Danny is performing at the Bellagio Resort and he will soon be appearing at the Starbright Theatre and the Liberace Museum.

Kelly introduced musical director/arranger and songwriter, Jeff Neiman, who came on stage to accompany Kelly’s husband, the one and only Clint Holmes. Clint described their forthcoming performance as “ a rehearsal.” The singer was about to perform a new arrangement by Jeff Neiman of two great romantic tunes joined together by the loving message in their lyrics: “Something” In the Way She Moves by the Beatles, and “She’s Got a Way,” by Billy Joel. With Jeff’s fabulous arrangement and Clint’s marvelous voice the performance was awesome. Combined with the beautiful personal message and it’s meaning, the entire presentation blew us all away!!!!! Wow!!!!
Clint Holmes will be honored at the Friars Club in New York City in a “Salute to Clint Holmes” on August 9. Among the list of performers that night are Leigh Zimmerman and Kelly Clinton.

Watch out Broadway, here comes Kelly!!! Kelly Clinton will perform at the Friars Club event with Leigh Zimmerman, who is currently starring as ‘Velma’ in “Chicago, the Broadway Musical.” Together Leigh (Velma) and Kelly (Mama) will sing the satiracal duet "Class." Kelly thought she better try the number out for the first time in front of a live audience right here at the Cabaret before she went off to do it in New York in a couple of weeks. Kelly sang both parts, went back to a verse from the cue cards held by Clint, and picked it up to close out her terrific performance!!!

There is just no business like show business!!!! Gotta love it! Kelly Clinton, gotta love her!!!

On with the Cabaret:

The awesome soulful singer, Don Hunley returned to Vegas following a trip back to his home in Buffalo, New York. Kelly welcomed Don back and he gave us one heck of a rockin’ performance of “Mustang Sally.” This fella’ is a powerful singer and he’s got all the moves too! Kelly Clinton joined Don Hunley for a follow-up song and dance routine and the groove was on! Oh, Yes!!!

The beautiful singer and musician Yvonne Silva was back this week strumming her guitar and singing the fascinating pop vocal tune by Nelly Furtado, "I’m Like a Bird." Once again, Yvonne Silva did a terrific performance and we expect to see more of her at the Cabaret.

A fabulous singer by the name of Skip Mercier stepped up to the open mic for the first time and blew us away with his super-terrific performance of “Unchained Melody.” Skip Mercier has a strong background in the music industry that goes back to the days when his band opened for top acts like the Righteous Brothers and others. He’s lived in Las Vegas for many years but never knew about the Cabaret on Monday nights at the Bootlegger. This was his first time here but it certainly won’t be his last. He was amazed at the talent and can’t wait to be a part of it again. We can’t wait to see Skip Mercier perform again!!!

As we always say, you just never know who will show up to perform ---or be out in the audience. Monday night we had a large table with many great Jazz musicians including Howie Gold, April Spain, Barbara Pasqui and at least a half-dozen others. Most of them were here to see the show and support the Las Vegas music industry.
Later Kelly introduced Kathi and Alan Glist of GFour Productions, the producers of “Menopause the Musical.” The show is now playing at the Luxor in Las Vegas as well as in other major cities around the country and in Australia and New Zealand. GFour Productions is a major player in the theatrical community. Some of the other shows they’ve produced are the Tony Award winning musical “Nine, The Musical,” and both the original and revival of “La Cage Aux Follies” which won them the Tony Award for Best Musical in 1983 and the Tony Award for Best Revival in 2004. WOW!!!!

Back to the Cabaret:

We haven’t seen Michael Sampson in a long time so we were happy to see the soulful singer return to the open mic with his terrific performance of the James Ingram song, “One Hundred Ways.”
Welcome back Michael Sampson.

The very entertaining lady singer from England, Trace Taylor, was back this week for her second appearance at the Cabaret. Trace gave us her stylistic performance of “Stardust Melody.” Trace Taylor is funny, she’s different, she’s talented and we expect to see more of her in the future.

Here we go! It was just about that time for spontaneous combustion and Kelly Clinton let loose with a 'wild woman dance' backed by music from the band and DJ Kevin Cordova. Go Kelly. Go Kelly. Go Kelly.

Musician/singer April Spain was up next. April is a fabulous Jazz/ Blues artist with a rich soulful sound. April accompanied herself on piano while the band grooved with her as she played and sang a terrific rendition of “All Right, Okay.” Mike Clark was really getting down on the keys, then it was Tony Drake playing awesome guitar followed by Billy Adams doing his ‘thang’ on the drums. Then it was back to the ‘oh so cool’ April Spain as she sent out those fabulous vocal riffs, runs and scats. What a great performance!!!

The tall, good-looking and charming singer/musician, Yukon Jack Lohman returned to the stage this week to perform his solo guitar and vocal act for a welcoming audience. Jack performed "Norwegian Wood" (This Bird Has Flown), a Beatles tune from their 1965 album Rubber Soul. He’s really, really good. Welcome back Jack!
Yukon Jack Lohman performed his one man show at Sea World in California for 12 years before making the move to Las Vegas about six months ago.

The audience was really taken back when Nashville musician/singer, Abe Beagles stepped on stage. The tall, lanky Abe has such an uncanny resemblance to Abraham Lincoln that it was fascinating to find out he is a relative of Lincoln’s first cousin, seven-generations removed. Wow!! Abe gave a wonderful performance of "A Man This Lonely."
Abe Beagles is well known in the science world as the award winning scientist, Dr. Abe Beagles. His work involves developing new technologies that are far beyond simple description here. Google in Dr. Abe Beagles for details.

It was great to have our fabulous DJ/special effects guy Kevin Cordova back on Monday night. Not only is Kevin one of the top DJs in town, he is also one of the most powerful singers to ever perform at the Cabaret. Nicknamed “Sexy Manuel” (he’s really got the moves) Kevin Cordova sings from deep in his heart and soul. That’s what made his performance of “I’m Already There” so outstanding. Kevin said whenever he sings that song he thinks of his kids!! Oh, what a guy!

Annetta Bonner took us on a rockin’ ride with the Gladys Knight and the Pips hit, “Midnight Train to Georgia.” Annetta Bonner is a hot singer with a great voice and the backup by the ‘Pips’ (Don Hunley, Kevin Cordova, Lisa Gay, and Kelly Clinton) added to her spectacular performance. It’s was awesome!!!!

Kelly invited wonderful singer Barbara Pasqui back up to the stage to close out another spectacular Monday night show. Barbara started off the Al Jarreau tune, “We’re In This Love Together.” Before you knew it, Clint Holmes joined in on some terrific scats from his seat, then he was up on stage jamming with Barbara!! Clint came in with a bit of the tune "Something" for Kelly, then Kelly Clinton joined Barbara Pasqui for a grooving’ duo and then all three singers and the fabulous band brought us home with one heck of a big ending!!!! That was so hot!!!

So there you go folks!! The evening of great entertainment ended on a high note ---as it always does!! Thanks to everyone who performed and to all those who come out to the show and fill the house every week!!

Special thanks to the dynamite entertainer, Kelly Clinton, and the entire team that makes this incredible show happen!!!!

Come On Down on Monday Nights to

Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret

Perform, Promote Your Gig, Dine In, Chill Out

It's Always a Blast!!!!!

Bootlegger Bistro, 7700 Las Vegas Blvd. South

Showtime: 9 PM Dining Room Reservations: 702-736-4939

Vegas Buzz: This Is IT on Monday Nights!

2010-07-24T14:35:00.000-07:00

Make no mistake about it, Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret is 'no ordinary open mic.’ The Monday night 'show of shows' in Vegas is a Cabaret with fantastic entertainment like no other.
As the fans have said, “Why would we ever go anywhere else on Monday nights? This is IT!!”

Kelly Clinton and friends kicked off another remarkable Monday night Cabaret show with a hilarious take on the legendary Marx Brothers. Starring in the comedy cast of the Marx Sisters was the one and only Kelly Clinton (Groucho), with Lena Prima (Chico), Mark O’Toole (Harpo) and Kaci Machacyk as Mrs. Rittenhouse (Animal Crackers). Mike Clark was on the keys and Tommy Vinci played the drums. The witty comical bit had the packed-house crowd roaring with laughter.

How does Kelly Clinton come up with this stuff? For starters, Kelly gets an idea in her head, then there’s no stopping her until the lines are down, the casting is complete, (when it’s not just a Kelly solo act) the costumes are gathered and the music is ready to go. In the latest production, Kelly credits Mike Clark for suggesting the Marx Sisters. Kelly put all her ideas together ---lines, cast, etc. Then the talented people in the sketch threw in their ideas that helped shape the final plan. It’s amazing how everything is put together in less than a day before the show goes on! In addition to her very original characters, for over a year now Kelly has come up with dozens and dozens of satirical Monday night openings starring a cast of characters based on famous icons from the stage, screen and the recording world….Truly amazing and so very entertaining!!!

After stripping off the Groucho wig, eyebrows, etc., Kelly was ready to introduce the first of many talented entertainers waiting in the wings to perform.

First up was the lovely Kaci Machacyk with a beautiful rendition of "Until There Was You."

This performance by Kaci Machacyk was a sampling of the selections from her show, The Soprano, that was scheduled for Wednesday night, July 21, at the Liberace Museum.

The evening was filled with so many fabulous entertainers. We want to mention them all and of course post a photo of each one as they performed at the latest Monday night show. So here we go. Next on stage was the awesome singer Lannie Counts who had the crowd screaming for more!! .....

Geena Mattox, former star of Phantom of the Opera, was back this week with a terrific performance of "Get Here."

Next we saw a whole new side of the fantastic singer Tim Wells who surprised us with an amazing theatrical performance of "Phantom of the Opera." The crowd loved it and wanted more from Tim so he made a song-style switch with the tune, "You Make Me Feel Brand New." That’s when the phenomenal Clint Holmes jumped in to join Tim Wells on a fabulous scat duo that knocked out the crowd!!!

Up next the dynamic duo, Lisa Gay and Tony Drake took to the stage with a extraordinary performance of "The Nearness of You" followed by a moving and grooving rendition of "Feel Like Making Love."

Then Lisa was joined by Clint Holmes and Chris Phillips (Zowie Bowie) to sing Happy Birthday to a very special friend and faithful fan of this show, Mel Myers……

That moment was followed by an introduction from Clint Holmes of a very special appearance by Kelly Clinton as Janis Joplin for one more tribute to birthday boy and car dealer Mel.

The unbelievable Kelly Clinton as Janis sang an original satirical version of "Mercedes Benz" with lyrics by Clint Holmes entitled "Oh, Mel Won’t You Buy Me a Mercedes Benz."
The crowd and Mel were hysterical with laughter as Kelly pulled off one more great spoof in costume and song. Wow!!!!

Then Clint was back on stage joined by his musical director, Jeff Neiman to perform “something real nice for Mel and his wife Sheri” who were also celebrating their 29th wedding anniversary. Clint Holmes sent out the beautiful tune "Here’s to Life."
What followed that was another performance by Clint Holmes who first sent out kudos to the fantastic band led by Mike Clark on keys with Billy Adams on the drums and Tony Drake sitting in on guitar. Yes!!! These great musicians played all night long!! Then, with Jeff Neiman on piano, Clint gave us a terrific presentation of that great tune, "Birth of the Blues"…..The crowd went wild!!!!

Up next at the mic was the delightful performer with a big personality -----16 year-old
Alex Christopher who sang that popular old favorite, "Green, Green Grass of Home." Great job Alex!!.......

Then came the hot blues singer Wendy Flemings who belted out a killer version of "Summertime." This lady can sing the blues!!!! Mike Clark was hot on the keys for Wendy’s number and he did a beautiful job on the next singer’s presentation too.

That would be the fantastic crooner, Mark O’Toole (Harpo) who gave us a excellent performance of the love song, “You Don’t Know Me.” (L).........
Newcomer to the open mic Christopher Todd gave a terrific rendition of “Orange Colored Sky.” Later in the show Christopher Todd (R) was back with the band to croon the tune, "It Had to Be You." Nice, very nice. We are sure to see more of this singer soon.

Singer,/songwriter George Dare stepped up next with a outstanding performance of the big crowd-pleasing tune, "Walking in Memphis." By the way, this night had the kind of audience every performer dreams of! The crowd was just marvelous and totally fixed on the show……. The beautiful powerhouse singer Denita Asberry was on stage next with her performance of the Whitney Houston tune, "I Will Always Love You." She slayed the crowd. Wow!... Then came a big welcome back to showman Bobby Brooks Hamilton. The awesome performer and tribute artist has been traveling the world circuit for many months. It was great to see Bobby back at the open mic giving us his terrific performance of "Higher and Higher."

Another newcomer to the open mic was Trace Taylor (L). The redhead was raised in England and there’s no mistaking her accent. Trace gave a swinging interpretation of "Bye, Bye Black Bird." She’ll be back..........

Soprano, Jacqueline Armitage (R) returned to the open mic Monday night after a couple of months of R & R. Jacqueline presented her beautiful rendition of "If I Loved You."

Trina Johnson, one of the fabulous stars of Vegas the Show, stopped in to give us a really hot performance of “I’m Your Baby Tonight.” The critics are raving about the new show at Planet Hollywood that pays tribute to ‘Old Vegas’ entertainment from the 1940’s through the 1980’s….......

........Another fantastic performer and a first timer at the Cabaret, Michael Love took us away with his energetic, heartfelt performance of "One in a Million."
Wow, what a powerful show closing performance!!!!

Thanks to everyone who took part in the making of one more night of unrivaled entertainment! Special thanks to Mike Clark, Billy Adams, Tony Drake and DJ/Jake Klein for bringing on the music....and especially to Kelly Clinton for making it all happen!!

As always, this was another great show at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret!!!
Please join us next Monday Night at the Bootlegger Bistro,
7700 Las Vegas Blvd. South
Showtime: 9 PM
Dining room reservations: 702-736-4939

Come on Down!! Perform, Promote Your Gig,
Dine In, Chill Out!........It's Always a Blast!!!!

The Cabaret = Mega Doses of Laughter & Music

2010-07-18T14:54:00.000-07:00

They say laughter is the best medicine and music soothes the soul. People in the know get their power-packed dosage of both every Monday night at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro. The super doses of laughter start taking effect right at the beginning of the show --- very often from the amazing parody
ensemble of characters created by the marvelous entertainer Kelly Clinton ---and always from the witty improv she comes up with all night long. Kelly and the wonderful lineup of musicians and singers bring on 'the music that's guaranteed to soothe the soul.' The huge doses of laughter and music dispensed on stage at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret is a proven cure-all for the body and soul. Just look around the packed house any Monday night and you will see a room full of people all wearing an expression that says “I feel good " ...We knew that they would!!

This week the sensational Kelly Clinton kicked off the show with the upbeat tune, “Hot Stuff.” She belted that one out, added plenty of moves then took herself into the audience to sing to one of her biggest fans, Steve Primak.

Kelly Clinton is a magnetic performer who loves the crowd and the Cabaret performers as much as they love her!!! She shares the stage with the other entertainers with generous affection. This night she invited an impromptu group of backup singers to join in on the opening number. Kaci Machacyk, Lannie Counts and Michael Cagle were ready, willing and able to jump in. What a fun loving launch to another great night of entertainment!

The awesome singer Malia Civetz was the first one up at the mic. The popular young lady announced she had added to her long list of credits by performing the National Anthem for President Barack Obama when he was in town recently campaigning for U.S. Senator Harry Reid!!! Apparently Malia has a great sense of humor too. This Monday night she followed up that big news with the popular tune from the Marilyn Monroe film, “Diamonds Are a Girls Best Friend!” This girl is hot! With a demand from the crowd and some fabulous backing from Mike Clark on keys and Billy Adams on drums, Malia did a terrific rendition of the Louis Armstrong tune, “What a Wonderful World.” Way to go Malia Civetz!

Up next was the phenomenal vocalist/entertainer Lannie Counts. Lannie has such a fantastic vocal range he knocks the crowd out with his every performance. This night Lannie put plenty of soul into his first number “Stand By Me.” The crowd loves Lannie and they weren’t about to let him go after just one awesome number, they wanted more!! So Lannie took a little detour and gave us his beautiful version of the tune “On and On” using his spectacular voice in high range. That called for a standing ovation!! Lannie Counts is a genuine pro!!!

Lannie Counts appeared with Kelly Clinton at the Stirling Club on Saturday night, July 10.

Kaci Machacyk, the talented young singer/actress and web TV host was back this week to give us a sample of what to expect at her upcoming show “The Soprano.” Kaci did an excellent presentation of what’s to come while performing the show tune “I Could Have Danced All Night.”

The fabulous musician/singer, Bill Fayne will accompany Kaci Machacyk at her show “The Soprano” on July 21 at the Liberace Museum.

The powerhouse singer, Michael Cagle went for it big time singing a tune for the first time live with the band ---and it was the first time the band ever played the song!!! Michael and the boys in the band did a fantastic performance of the heart touching ballad, “Don’t Cry Out Loud.” Way to go Michael Cagle!!!

While we are awaiting some really big career news from Michael Cagle, (should be released at any moment) rumor has it that some rather big name artists are involved in the project….Whatever, the news will be good!

Kelly took some time out to bring up one of our favorite guys from the Bootlegger Vito Marinelli for a special moment with his family members who were dining in and seeing the show.

Singer Linda Tanzetta was up next with a wonderful version of the old standard, “What a Difference a Day Makes.” Linda met her husband Rudy Ricci right here at the Bootlegger Bistro. The romantic couple story continued on when singer Rudy Ricci stepped up next to send out the tune, “Lady Love” to Linda……..Ah! Ain’t love grand!!!

As the stage was being set for the next entertainer, Kelly stepped in with dose of her comedic wit before introducing the guy we all know as the remarkable musician, Martin Mancuso. Martin is also a fantastic dancer who performed with the The Foot Lockers, the dance group that won first place on the TV show Star Search back in the 1980’s. This night Martin portrayed a cast of characters backed by music themes from popular television and radio shows and the movies. You really had to be there to experience Martin’s very entertaining ride. The talented Martin Mancuso had the audience in stitches as he sped from one crazy character to the next using props and making quick costume changes as the fast-paced music altered from one theme to another. He can be a danger too!! Of course it's all in fun but for a moment there, a fan named Perry Paschall looked like he was in real trouble!!! Wow, what a performance!!!
The word on the beat is, Martin Mancuso will be taking his comedic act to a venue in Downtown Vegas in the very near future. We’ll let you know when.

The line up of talent that comes to perform each week at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret is so awesome it’s almost unbelievable!!!

Next up was the incredible high-energy musician/songwriter/musical director and singer Jeff Neiman who sat at the grand piano and gave an amazing performance of “Walking in Memphis.” Jeff is the musical director for headliner Clint Holmes. Last weekend Jeff Neiman opened Clint’s show at the Suncoast with an outstanding piano solo.

Wow --and to think we caught Jeff's very first performance of that opening number right here a couple of weeks ago at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret!!!!

Many of us saw the next singer perform years ago at Kelly’s former Monday night show at the Bootlegger. Carmine Mandia, from the show group Shades of Sinatra and the Carmine Mandia Show, gave us his fine rendition of the Sinatra tune, the “Lady is a Tramp.”

Kelly Clinton Productions presents Carmine Mandia with Ned Mills in the Celebrity Spotlight at the Bootlegger Bistro on Sunday, July 18. …….Carmine Mandia also performs a Bobby Darin tribute show -- and on occasion, is a featured performer at the exclusive Stirling Club.

Sometimes it takes a few tries to get a spot at the open mic but patience paid off for the next performer Erik Moore. After a fine presentation of his first tune “L. O. V. E.” Kelly asked Erik to go with a second number. With band members Mike Clark on keys and drummer L.J. Harness sitting in for Erik’s performance, the singer took off with a terrific rendition of the Dean Martin tune, “Kick in the Head.” .......Welcome Erik Moore.

The beautiful singer with the wonderful raspy voice, Laurie Cook was up next. Laurie had her band members, drummer L.J. Harness and sax player, Scott Webb along with Mike Clark on the keys backing her on the tune, “End of the World.” Laurie’s fantastic vocal style is a little bit country, a little bit rock n’ roll and a lot of soul. Laurie got together with Kelly Clinton for her second number. The couple of hot chick singers rocked the house on “New Orleans“!!!

Laurie Cook and her band will perform with about 30 other bands during Hot August Nights, a fund raising event designed to keep the arts going for kids. The three-day event will be held in Town Square on August 20th, 21st and 22nd. For more info go to www.hotaugustnightsinlasvegas.com

Kelly introduced the extraordinary singer Geena Mattox who stepped up to give a wonderful performance of “What Are You Doing The Rest of Your Life.” Welcome back Geena!!
Geena Mattox starred in the Las Vegas cast of Phantom of the Opera.
She is also a music teacher at a middle school and a private vocal coach as well.
Geena was invited to perform some of her latest work at Kelly Clinton’s show at the Stirling Club this past weekend.

Newcomer to the Cabaret, singer Mandi Lo brought in a table full of friends for her debut performance.

Mandi delivered a fine presentation of the Pop ballad, “Underneath Your Clothes” by Columbian singer-songwriter, Shakira.

Welcome Mandi Lo.

Now officially back on the music scene, Yvonne Silva was up next --this time she accompanied herself on guitar. The beautiful and talented singer gave a wonderful performance of the Lady Gaga tune, “Telephone.”

Yvonne Silva can really sing it!! Her large following of fans cheered her on along with the rest of the crowd......Great job!!!!

The stage was set for yet another fantastic performance by Lisa Gay with Tony Drake and Lannie Counts. Lisa said she wanted to “bring back the duets” so she invited Lannie to join her for what turned out to be an awesome duet performance of “The Closer I Get To You.” Wow, what a show of talent!!! Lisa and Tony went on to do a knock out rendition of a Lena Horne tune, “Watch What Happens.” The crowd loved it as Tony Drake rocked on the guitar while Lisa Gay sent out her powerful vocals. As Kelly said about the talented couple, “That’s the real deal right there!”

Wrapping up the night was singer J.T. Thompson with the latest Michael Buble` tune, "High Adventure."

The charming J.T. did a wonderful closing show performance.

Before the show actually closed, the thank you's went out to all who participated.

Kelly thanked everyone involved in making her Open Mic Cabaret such a great success. Thanks went out to her A-Team, musical director Mike Clark, drummer Billy Adams, Bootlegger host, J.T. Thompson and sitting in this week for Kevin Cordova, DJ Jake Klein. Thanks also went out to the fabulous Cabaret performers, the wonderful fans and to all the people who work at the Bootlegger Bistro.

Join us next Monday Night for another multi-milligram dose of laughter and music at Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro!!! Showtime 9 PM.
Perform, Promote Your Gig, Dine In, Chill Out!
It's Always a Blast!!!
7700 Las Vegas Blvd. So.
Dining Room Reservations: 702-736-4939

Alakazam!! Monday's Magical Musical Cabaret

2010-07-10T23:10:00.000-07:00

The art of comedy and illusion was a magical experience for the crowd at Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret last Monday night. The multi-talented Kelly Clinton succeeded in taking on the full persona of master magician David Copperfield. The music, the lights, the costuming were awesome and so were the magic bits, "The Silk," the "Sleight of Hand," the "Disappearance" ---and a lot more Hocus Pocus. The full-house crowd went wild as Kelly performed with the help of skit collaborator and magician's assistant Kaci Machacyk, stage manager Tommy Vinci and DJ/special effects guy, Kevin Cordova. There were screams and tears of laughter throughout the entire room as Kelly ---dressed and made up in the likeness of David Copperfield --and never once losing character-- presented one magic trick after another. Was that a banana, then a head of cauliflower coming out of front-seat fan, Bill Bane's ear? It was --- and after a Q-tip swipe of the ear, we saw a Clint Holmes' CD appear and heard an announcement that plugged Clint's upcoming show!!
Really funny stuff! It's all on tape so one day everyone can see this incredibly funny show of talent!
Oh what fun!!!!!
And, that was just for starters. Next came another incredible show of talent by many top Vegas entertainers!!

Kaci Machacyk got the open mic swinging with a terrific performance of the tune, "Last Dance." Kaci Machacyk will perform in her own show "The Soprano" at the Liberace Museum July 21. The talented young women is also the host of the web broadcast Vegas 5W. www.vegas5w.com

The truly awesome singer Lannie Counts was up next with his soulful rendition of the Marvin Gaye hit, "Heard It Through the Grapevine." The crowd, as always, wanted more and they got it when Lannie took us into the Blues with that fabulous standard, "Georgia." Lannie Counts is HOT!!! Lannie Counts is appearing this Saturday night with Kelly Clinton at the exclusive Stirling Club at Turnberry Towers.

The romantic crooner, Mark O'Toole sang with Kelly's band for the first time and he was terrific on the beautiful love song, "You Don't Know Me." Mike Clark did an fabulous job on the keys while guest drummer Brian Czach kept the beat on Mark's second tune, "Fly Me to the Moon." .................................Mark O'Toole appears in the Ravello Room at the "M" Resort in Henderson every Saturday night starting from 6:30 PM until 8:00 PM and at various other venues in Laughlin, NV. He also appears frequently on Wednesday nights at the Stirling Club.

Every singer that appeared this night chose to perform with the live band!!!!!! The boys in the band, Mike Clark and guest drummer Brian Czach played all night long with only one brief break when our next performer stepped into the spotlight. ...............Ironically, this was the night professional magician Jason Andrews stopped by to perform!!!! Who knew that would happen?!! Named Entertainer of the Year by Boyd Gaming, magician Jason Andrews had more than a few tricks up his sleeve when he entertained the awe-struck crowd Monday night!!

Singer Carmine Mandia dropped in to give us his rendition of the Bobby Darin tune, "That's All." Carmine is both a solo performer and a member of the group Shades of Sinatra. The Shades show was created by Kelly Clinton about five years ago. Aside from their own shows, the Shades have opened for comedian Don Rickles several times. ............................Carmine Mandia will be the headline performer on Sunday evening, July 18, in Kelly Clinton's Celebrity Spotlight at the Bootlegger Bistro. He's also appearing at the Rampart Hotel & Casino, ...July 30 & 31.

If you are one of the few people that don't know who Domenick Allen is, let me tell you something about this guy with the pure heart of gold and the talent of a giant in the music industry. We will start with the heart by broadcasting a brief version of the story he presented last Monday night. Domenick's wife, Leigh Zimmerman and thier daughter are in New York this summer. Leigh is starring on Broadway in the hit musical Chicago so they are living the dual residence life while Domenick works Vegas or is on the road traveling the world. Domenick is a guy 'in love with his family'. He said he was thinking of his relationship with Leigh when he came up with the musical tribute he was about to perform at the piano "for all those couples who are one." Wow!!! The super talented singer/musician/entertainer blew us away!!!! .... About the talented giant, Domenick Allen is best known as a member of the rock group Foreigner. He was also the opening act for Mr. Showman, Liberace, for several years and now Domenick Allen headlines all over the world. He recently appeared in the fantastic show, Vocal Soup, with Clint Holmes, Susan Anton and Martin Nievera at the Orleans Showroom.

Come blow your horn Martin Mancuso, the crowd loves you!! They truly do appreciate this talented musician/dancer who always puts on a fabulous show! This night Martin hit it with the "Chicago Blues," blowing that Sax like nobody's business. With Martin on stage was the fantastic guitarist, Tony Drake who took over the spotlight when Martin took a break. Tony Drake was awesome!!! Martin Mancuso stepped back into the spotlight for an incredible finish!!!! YES!!

The fabulous singer, Laurie Cook and her band members, explosive drummer LJ and the Sax man Scott took us back to the 60's with a sensational performance of "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" and that rocking tune "New Orleans." Kelly said she thought the hot drummer LJ was about to "spontaneous combust" on his spectacular solo! The word is out that Laurie Cook and her band did a killer show when they performed in Kelly's Sunday Night Celebrity Spotlight at the Bootlegger recently. The group will be one of about 30 bands performing at Hot August Nights a major Las Vegas fundraising event For Kids Now on Aug. 20, 21 & 22.

It was about that time in the show when Kelly lets loose with the moves and she did it with her hair flying to the beat Go Kelly, Go Kelly, Go Go Kelly!!!!

The super talented Michael Jackson impersonator and a terrific singer/musician in his own right, Isaiah Mercado came on stage with a whole different kind of MJ tune. Isaiah said he figured if he only did MJ's up-tunes all through a show he could "die" so it was time to slow it down a bit with a the beautiful ballad from the King of Pop, "She's Out of My Life." Wow, that was so fine Isaiah!! ....................................................Isaiah Mercado has "all kinds of stuff coming up." Details later.

Talk about "all kinds of things coming up" our next performer, Michael Cagle can't wait to shout out all the "huge stuff going on" in his career. He has to hold off on the latest breaking news but we are sure to hear about it very soon. Michael has been working at "making it in the music business" for some time now and it looks like tenacity and hard work is about to pay off. Monday night Michael Cagle sang his heart out during his wonderful performance of "Neither One of Us." We are all rooting for you Michael Cagle!!!

The magic never stopped all night!!!! Kelly called out for "Summertime" in the key of C and up stepped the incomparable Clint Holmes to join his lovely wife in a duet. The couple sang together and then Kelly stepped aside to let Clint do his thing. If you haven't seen Clint Holmes perform you are really missing a show from this one-of-a kind entertainer! As Kelly said at the end of the performance it was as if "Clint was possessed by the magical musical God."

Clint Holmes is appearing at the Suncoast Showroom on July 10 & 11.

The crowd was really happy to see the young rockin' guitarist Merritt Mullaney back at the open mic. He's only appeared here a few times but the fans easily took to Las Vegas newcomer right from the start. This Monday night Merritt shared his spot with Bootlegger host and singer, J.T. Thompson. While J.T. took the vocals, Merritt rocked on his electric guitar on the tune, "The Weight" by the group, The Band.

It was a terrific duo performance. Merritt Mullaney may be heading back to S. Dakota very soon to continue you his Piano Performance program at his home- state university. Merritt said he would rather stay in Las Vegas if he can and that he is looking into the Music major programs at UNLV. For now it is wait and see. We all wish good things for Merritt Mullaney.

The beautiful and very talented singer, Napata Mero` was up next. Her first remark was "You call this an Open Mic? This is fantastic!"
Napata is from San Francisco and she was in town visiting the friends who brought her to the Cabaret. She did a really outstanding performance of the Etta James tune, "At Last."
Nepato Mero` is fantabulous!!!!

The wonderful husband and wife team, Lisa Gay and Tony Drake were up next with yet another sensational open mic performance. Lisa took the vocals as Tony led the band on guitar for their first tune, "For Once in My Life." As always Lisa and Tony did a excellent show of talent. The crowd always wants more so for their second number Lisa gave out her fabulous vocals on "Love Makes a Woman." Then she invited Kelly to join her on closing out the number. Oh what fun and plenty of super talented by Tony Drake, Lisa Gay and Kelly Clinton.

Kelly said the super talented Lisa Gay and Tony Drake have been in town less than a year and they are making their mark in the Las Vegas music scene. Just this past week they appeared on the Dennis Bono Show and on July 10th they are working with the fabulous Woody Woods at Lake Las Vegas.

Google Lisa Gay and Thrill for lots more info.

And the winner is!!! Yes that's right, the next singer at the open mic, Cristina Ventre recently won the member's talent contest at the Stirling Club!! When we watched this beautiful young woman perform as she did Monday night, right away we knew how Cristina blew away the contest judges. She's incredible!! Cristina sent out the beautiful Italian lyrics of Caruso. What a voice! Then when the crowd called for an encore, Cristina did an astonishing performance of "I Will Always Love You." Wow!!!!
Cristina Ventre you are really good!!!!!

Who could follow Cristina's act?

Well it was none other than her Dad, Gianfranco Ventre who serenaded us with the Italian lyrics of the romantic tune "Arriverderci Roma." It was a beautiful performance by a very fine singer, Gianfranco Ventre.

This was the last performance of the "magical musical" evening at Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret on July 5, 2010.

Thanks to everyone for coming!!!

Looking forward to seeing you all next Monday night!!!

Perform,
Promote Your Gig,
Dine In,
Chill Out,
It's Always a Blast!!

Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret

Bootlegger Bistro
7700 Las Vegas Blvd So.
Dining reservations:
702-736-4939

It's me Kelly Clinton!!

The Buzz: The Show Sizzles Every Monday Night!!

2010-07-02T08:54:00.000-07:00

The show sizzles every Monday night at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret ---it's the hottest weekly show of talent in Vegas. With the dynamic Kelly Clinton as the MC, the show always starts off with a blast! Monday night it was Kelly as Kelly with her comedic intro song, "Bald Headed Men." She loves them!!! Just ask a guy named Rob who gave Kelly a shining (pun) example of the kind of man who turns her on. The audience was in stitches as Kelly played it to hilt with Ray and a couple of other bald headed men!! It was an explosive opening for one more fabulous evening of hot entertainment!

The open mic began with a welcome back to singer/musician, Isaiah Mercado, one of the most sensational Michael Jackson tribute artists we’ve seen in a long time. Isaiah arrived in Las Vegas a few months ago and showcased his professional talent right here at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro. In a matter of weeks he was out on the road with bookings all over the country! This night Isaiah Mercado gave us a terrific performance of MJ’s “The Way You Make Me Feel.”

The very talented musician/singer and tribute artist, Isaiah Mercado just turned 24 and he is well on his way to a fabulous career in the entertainment business.

Next up was the super talented Malia Civetz. The 16-year old Malia has so many professional performances under her belt she is certainly on her way to stardom. Malia showed her stuff with an awesome version of “I Didn’t Know My Own Strength” recorded by Whitney Houston and written by Grammy award winning songwriter, Diane Warren. The crowd loves Malia and she followed up with a second tune in an entirely different musical style, the swinging version of the Sinatra tune, "World on a String.”
Malia Civetz appeared with her group, Breakthrough, at the opening of Toast of the Town, the new Thursday afternoon show at Sam’s Town. The Las Vegas Academy student also relayed the story of how she got a call the day before a recent Dodgers vs. Yankees game asking her to sing the very next day. (She has performed many times for the opening of pro sports games) Malia answered the call and performed the next day at Dodger stadium before 56,000 fans!

There were several young performers at the open mic this week ---all of them were terrific singers. The youngest was the phenomenal Kaela Victoria Jonson-Smith who came by for her second show at the open mic cabaret.
Ten-year old Kaela knocked us dead with her unbelievable performance of “Listen.”

Kaela Victoria Jonson-Smith studies voice at the LaBlanc Academy.

We were in for a real treat with our next performer, musician/producer/arranger, Jeff Neiman. Jeff produced Clint Holmes latest CD, Re-Imagined, ---and he has been working as Clint’s musical director since the Fall of 2009. The super pianist, Jeff Neiman performed an awesome solo in concert at the grand piano featuring music from Phantom of the Opera.

Jeff Neiman will host the Toast of the Town show at Sam’s Town this Thursday, July 1, at 2 PM. Jeff will also perform as musical director for Clint Holmes at the Suncoast on July 10 and 11th.

Kelly Clinton picked up on Jeff’s performance by presenting her own version of the music from Phantom in her operatic voice.
JT Thompson did the Kelly 'catch or quick pick-up' when she took her 'after the opera number fall.'

Though she makes it appear comical, Kelly really can hit those notes using her voice in high range. Go Kelly, Go Kelly!

The very popular Lannie Counts was up next with his amazing performance of “Sunshine of My Life” by Stevie Wonder. Lannie is one fine singer with a truly remarkable range. We always looked forward to seeing Lannie perform every few weeks or every couple of months when Kelly first started the Monday night open mic over a year ago at the Bootlegger. But Lannie said once he started coming in every week over the past few months ---now he is “addicted and I can’t stop!”

As always, the crowd can’t get enough of Lannie Counts either so they demanded more and the fabulous singer obliged with the Motown tune, “Just My Imagination.” Suddenly Clint Holmes joined in from the audience and moments later he was on stage with Lannie for an incredible duet jam session that Kelly described as “Magical stuff.”

Lannie Counts wrapped up the his fantastic solo spot and the crowd went wild!!! Wow, that was so hot!!

Be sure to catch the incredible Clint Holmes at the Suncoast on July 10 & 11. Make your reservations now.

Tickets go fast!! The billboard painting was brought in from home by Kelly Clinton. It was a surpise moment for her husband Clint Holmes.

The word is spreading about Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret and the talent from California have been driving in to perform at the popular cabaret show. This week we saw the gorgeous singer/songwriter, 18 year-old Lauren Diaz perform her original tune “You Ain’t Nothing to Me.” The talented musician accompanied herself at the grand piano as she sang out the lyrics in her amazing full voice.
Lauren Diaz drove in from Hesperia, Ca. just to perform this night at the Bootlegger. She was on her way back home when the show ended. Come back anytime Lauren.

It was Richelle Riviera’s first appearance at Kelly’s Cabaret. Richelle Riviera spent the last year or so on cruise ship tours before coming back to Vegas to settle in for a while. The pro performer had the band behind her when she gave her tremendous presentation of the Billy Holiday tune, “God Bless the Child.”

Everyone was very pleased to see the amazing singer Bobby Black accept Kelly’s invite to step up to the mic. Bobby gave an awesome performance of the fabulous Michael Buble` arrangement of “Cry Me a River.” The crowd roared for Bobby Black and he gave us another outstanding presentation of “Faithfully” by Journey...... Bobby Black is sensational!!
As you may or may not know, Bobby Black was a solo performer with plenty of professional experience when we first met him several years back at Kelly Clinton's original Monday night gig at the Bootlegger. As the story goes, two other pros, Mark Giovi and Bill Fayne also sang at the weekly gig and one night former Bootlegger manager, Ruthie Catalano suggested they sing together. That was how the now famous group the Las Vegas Tenors came to being. Later another awesome tenor, Teddy Davey joined the group and not long after Mark Giovi took the starring role in the show “Bite” at the Stratosphere.
Bobby Black was headed for Aruba on Tuesday for a cruise ship tour with the Las Vegas Tenors.

Between acts the fabulous multi-talented Kelly Clinton kept the crowd roaring with laughter with her witty off-the-cuff comedy including an amazing multi-character improv version of her own soap opera ----and with hysterically funny call backs to her new found bald-headed love, Rob. Expect the unexpected whenever Kelly Clinton is on stage!! Gotta love her!!

Kelly spotted musician/singer Jamie Hosmer in the audience and with a little enticement from Kelly and Bobby Black, Jamie took over the grand piano and floored the crowd with his awesome performance of the Elton John hit tune, “Rocket Man.” Though Bobby promised Jamie he and Clint Holmes would sing with him -- and they were on stage--- Clint said Jamie didn’t need any help from them, he was doing so fabulous on his own. Wow, what a great performance by Jamie Hosmer!!! We’d love to see him at the Cabaret again!!

Jamie Hosmer is a member of Las Vegas’ leading band, Santa Fe. Santa Fe performs at the Bootlegger on Wednesday nights starting at 10 PM.

Next up, musician/song stylist April Spain blew us away at the grand piano singing her incredible version of “I Love Being Her With You.” April just arrived back in town after a long absence. She has worked with Kelly’s musical director, Mike Clark in the past and both Mike and drummer, Billy Adams were featured in solo spots during April’s performance. The crowd loved her and April Spain did a fabulous show on her second number, “Just the Two of Us.” Wow, welcome back April Spain!!!

The boys in the band are really hot too!!

Another beautiful young woman, Yvonne Silva was up next. Yvonne was a singer before pursuing her current profession as a Maitre' D at Mandalay Bay. She wants to get back into singing again and Yvonne Silva showed her stuff with a terrific performance of the Etta James tune “At Last.”

Yukon Jack Logan was back this week. The guitar-playing singer had the band backing him up on his marvelous performance of the Johnny Cash tune “Solitary Man.”

Yukon Jack Logan performed his own show at Sea World for over a decade before making the move to Vegas in recent months.

Our next performer, Murry McKay had the crowd rocking as he danced and sang the up-tune “I’m So Excited” by the Pointer Sisters. This is such a familiar tune to many of us it’s really hard to believe it was first released back in the early 1980s and made it to Billboards Top 100 Chart on it’s second release in 1984. Where does the time go?! The song was also selected by the Recording Industry Association of America as one of “The Songs of the Century.” Murry McKay did a great job on this memorable tune.

Our own JT Thompson was about to wrap up the show with track music but the DJ Jake Klein who was filling in for the one and only Kevin Cordova didn’t have the version of “Christopher Robin” that JT sings with. That could have been a bummer but JT decided to perform
A cappella and what an outstanding job he did!! JT Thompson did an astonishing performance of the Kenny Loggins tune!! Great Job JT!!

To our surprise and Kelly’s too, there was one more act that wanted to go on. The late arrivals had come a long way from Los Angeles to do the show. The duo act just barely made into town in time but they did get on to close the night out. Guitarist/songwriter Shana Golden and singer/lyricwriter Gina Jirouard gave a wonderful performance of their original tune “Ageless Mirror.” The girls from the group Kona Wind are in the process of recording “Ageless Mirror” on their new CD of the same title. Their earlier CD release, “Come Into My World” has already sold over 4,000 copies.
Kona Wind usually performs as a five piece band in their shows. They have worked as an opening act for many big name performers and have done their own show at the Cannery in Las Vegas and at many other venues. They were in town for a performance this week. Check them out at www.konawind.net

Before bringing the night to a complete ending, there were celebrities in the audience that deserve a mention. Kelly had no idea the cast members of “Rain” the Beatles musical were sitting at a large table watching the show until the very end of the night. Kelly was delighted to have them at the Cabaret and to hear the announcement “Rain: The Beatles Experience” was going to Broadway this Fall!!!
Congratulations to the entire cast!!

Once again Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret came to a final close following a dynamite evening of fantastic performances. Thanks to the great entertainers who perform, our friends and fans who are such a great audience ---and to Kelly Clinton and her A-Team, Musical director Mike Clark and drummer Billy Adams, Bootlegger host JT Thompson and filling in for Kevin Cordova this week, DJ Jake Klein.
Please join us again next Monday night at the Bootlegger Bistro for Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret, the best Monday night show in Vegas!!

Perform, Promote Your Gig,

Dine In, Chill Out

It’s Always a Blast!

Bootlegger Bistro, 7700 Las Vegas Blvd. South

Dining Room Reservations: 702-736-4939

Toast of the Town - Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret

2010-06-19T15:29:00.000-07:00

There's not a show in town like Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret. For starters, Monday night’s sensational show opened with an entrance by the one and only Kelvis, who is none other than the star herself, the artist with many faces, Kelly Clinton. Kelly’s flowing hair is down, she’s wearing her custom-made red embellished “Elvis” suit with her “Kelvis” cape and big shades when she asks the crowd to (mimic voice) “Imagine this…Imagine…Imagine Ann Margret and Elvis had a love child.” That’s Kelvis…a name Kelly was tagged with in high school when she first started performing her Elvis impression. Kelly Clinton took the crowd into her imaginary world with the shimmy and shake-it number by the King himself, "Jailhouse Rock." Wow, can this girl sing, move and excite a crowd!!! Kelvis even did the silk scarf wrap for several fans before she wound up her opening act with the tune "Caught in a Trap." Oh what fun and a great way to launch another fantastic evening of entertainment!

On special occasions, Kelly Clinton performs as a full-fledged ‘Elvis impersonator.’ She is the only female member of the exclusive Elvis Choir. The group performs at special events and conventions in Las Vegas. She was named the number one Elvis impressionist in town by writer John Katsilometes in Las Vegas Weekly’s 2010 "List Edition." Kelly was also featured on ABC’s Nightline in their Elvis tribute segment last January.

Before introducing the first artist of the evening, Kelly gave a big introduction to her fabulous band with special guest, the incredible Tony Drake on guitar, her awesome musical director Mike Clark on keys and the very dapper Billy Adams on drums. Along with the band Kelly introduced the rest of her A-Team, the fantastic DJ/Special effects guy, Kevin Cordova and Bootlegger host, J.T. Thompson.

First up at the mic was the amazing Lisa Gay who wows the crowd at every one of her performances.
Lisa demonstrated her incredible range and vocal style as she presented her first tune of the night, "Old Friend." With her husband Tony Drake leading the band, Lisa took us into another dimension on her second number, the up-tune "You Know How to Love Me." Lisa has all the moves to go with the music. She even enticed a couple of guy fans to dance with her and then had Kelly join her on vocals and dance just before closing her exhilarating show. Lisa Gay and Tony Drake are fantastic!!!

Next up was Musical Director/Songwriter and awesome singer, Mike Shane. Mike sat at the grand piano to sing and play with the band on his first number, "I Can’t Stop Lovin’ You" by Ray Charles. The crowd yelled for more, more, so Mike followed up with a piano and vocal solo of "She’s Got a Way." Mike Shane gave a really fabulous show of talent.

By the way, Mike made a grand fashion statement with his really cool new look!

The lovely Laurie Cook, a terrific talent with a wonderful raspy sound in her voice stepped up to show her style with "Something to Talk About" by Bonnie Raitt....Laurie Cook sings a wide range of music from Country, to R&B and Rock and Roll. Laurie was terrific. She took a moment to flash her ring when Kelly announced Laurie’s recent engagement. Congratulations!!!
Laurie Cook will headline Kelly Clinton’s Celebrity Spotlight on Sunday, June 27, at the Bootlegger Bistro. Showtime 8:30 PM. Dinner Reservations: from 7 PM. 702-736-4939.

As always, there was a non-stop line-up of very talented entertainers this evening and we were very 'lucky' to have the fabulous Mark O’Toole back at the open mic to perform "Lady Luck," the popular tune from the musical Guys and Dolls. Mark had a surprise for a couple of “Moms” in the audience, his dear mother, Helen O’Toole, and Kelly Clinton’s mom, Ellie Clinton Issa. The two fine ladies were brought up on the stage for a special moment when the crooner sang them a favorite bluesy tune, "Dream a Little Dream." Most of us know and love the song which was recorded by many artists as far back as 1931. The most popular version and the one we are most familiar with is the hit recording by Cass Elliot with the Mamas & The Papas in 1968. Mark O’Toole did a terrific rendition of this beautiful romantic tune. Thank you Mark. Thank you Kelly.

Mark O’Toole headlines at the M Resort every Saturday from 6:30 - 8 PM in the Ravello Lounge.

He also appears at the Stirling Club at Turnberry Towers on Wednesday evenings.

It’s always a wonderful treat when headliner Clint Holmes makes an appearance at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret. “He’s the real deal” Kelly said when she introduced her husband Clint. When we talk ‘great’ performers, Clint Holmes is definitely 'the real deal.' His super-talented musical director Jeff Neiman played piano while Clint performed one of his original playful tunes, "Conundrum.' The crowd went wild and demanded more!! The fans can never get enough of this phenomenal entertainer!! Clint did another of his original songs, "If Not Now When" which was later written into his musical production, My Own Song. What a talent!!! Clint Holmes is the best, he’s awesome!
Clint Holmes is headlining at the Suncoast Hotel Casino on July 10 & 11. Book your reservations now @ 702-736-7111.

Adding to the evening of outstanding entertainment was the next act, Jazz Utopia. This was the quartet’s first appearance at Kelly’s Cabaret and they did a fabulous performance of "I Love Being Here With You" followed by the popular Jazz standard "On Green Dolphin Street." The Jazz Utopia quartet features Marlene Coker on vocals and piano, Henry Uechi on guitar, John Plows on drums and Enrico Santarelli on bass.

Jazz Utopia appeared weekly at Frediani’s in Henderson for about two years and have performed at the Captain’s Cove, Flamingo Library, Ferraro’s, The Happening --- and lots of gigs around town and casuals for events.

We’d love to see them back at Kelly’s Cabaret soon!

The extraordinary vocalist Lannie Counts was up next to give yet another great performance of the Stevie Wonder tune, Sunshine of My Life. His incredible vocal range and presentation style brings the crowd to its feet every time Lannie Counts performs on this stage. He’s so fabulous the crowd always demands more from Lannie. With the great band behind him, the phenomenal Lannie Counts gave a knock-out performance on his second number, Can’t Get You Out of My Mind. Wow!!!!

The next performer, Kevin Washington, who bills himself as Aquarius, strolled the entire room during his performance of "Ascension," by the very popular neo-soul artist, Maxwell.... Aquarius has a new CD coming out soon and we expect he will be back in the near future for another performance at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret.

Kelly Clinton was “on” all night long with her gift for witty improvisation and spontaneous antics that she's forever coming up with between acts.

At this point in the show the DJ/Kevin Cordova hit the button and Kelly broke out into one of her impulsive and amazing dance routines.
Kelly Clinton is simply sensational!!

It was great to see Isaiah Mercado, the fabulous Michael Jackson impersonator ---and a terrific singer/musician in his own right--- back at the open mic after weeks of touring his MJ act. This night Isaiah picked up his acoustic guitar, one of the five instruments he plays, for his wonderful solo performance of "Everything."

The very talented Isaiah Mercado is hitting the road again this month for a special one-week performance in Anaheim, California.

Wow what a night this was!!!! Kelly introduced the next artist as the sensational Tim Wells, the lead vocalist who sang with the Army Field Band for four years. Tim opened his act with an astonishing A cappella version of the national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner." He blew the standing crowd away with his opening number then went on with his killer performance of "Oh My Love." Tim Wells is one great artist to keep an eye on. Watch him soar!!!

Kelly Clinton’s Celebrity Spotlight presents Tim Wells this Sunday night, June 20, at the Bootlegger Bistro.
Get your reservations now at 702-736-4939. Dining reservations start at 7 PM.
Showtime 8:30 PM.

Bobby Darin fans were all ears when first-time performer at the open mic, Emile LaCampagne sang "Beyond the Sea."
Emile stops by to see Kelly Clinton perform every few months when he is in town on business. This time he took the opportunity to give us a show of his own.
We hope to see Emile LaCampagne back at the Cabaret soon.

Kelly surprised the crowd with her intro of the great Soul and R&B singer, Johnny Butler, a former member of the world renown group The Coasters. Until recently, Johnny performed with The Coasters at the Sahara Hotel for 10 years. Johnny Butler has the most awesome baritone voice ---the crowd was thrilled with the star’s wonderful performance of "Rainy Night In Georgia."

Please come back soon Johnny Butler!!!

After a night of setting the advance stage lighting, working with his new portable wireless spotlights, spinning CD’s --and so much more-- high-tech DJ/Special effects master/ singer Kevin Cordova stepped up to the mic to perform his wonderful rendition of a favorite Billy Joel tune, "New York State of Mind." Loved it Kevin!!!

Closing out the night's talent line-up, Bootlegger host and singer, J.T. Thompson did a terrific performance of the song Moon Dance with the awesome Kelly Clinton band and special guest, guitarist Tony Drake.

One more sensational Monday night of entertainment at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro came to a close. Thanks to the incredible artist Kelly Clinton and her A-Team ---and the terrific lineup of talent she presents--- no other show in all of Vegas can compare to this one!!!
It's the Toast of the Town!!!!

Come on Down! It's Always a Blast!

Perform, Promote Your Gig, Dine In, Chill Out

Every Monday Night: Showtime 9 PM
Bootlegger Bistro, 7700 Las Vegas Blvd. South
Dining reservations starting from 7:30 PM: 702-736-4939

See You Monday Night!!!!

The Buzz: Photoplay - 1st Anniversary Celebration!!!

2010-06-13T16:09:00.000-07:00

It was a standing room only crowd that gathered at the Bootlegger Bistro on Monday night, May 31, 2010, to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the very popular Las Vegas show, Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret.

The date coincided with Memorial Day, a day of honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country. That event was acknowledged via a wonderful presentation by Clint Holmes of his musical video of Who Will Stand, an original song he co-wrote with Pat Caddick, and the title of a full-length documentary honoring the men and women of the military.

Next came a full-screen video presentation of the Many Faces of Kelly Clinton that showed Kelly Clinton performing many of the characters she has opened her weekly Cabaret show with over the past year. Last on the screen was a vision of Kelly's popular portrayal of Joe Joe Spaghetti Moretti, the Italian-American horn player who worked Vegas in the good old Rat Pack days. Then J.T. Thompson introduced the live Joe Joe, the very character Kelly Clinton opened with exactly one year ago when she launched her Open Mic Cabaret. It was the start of a great evening of entertainment and a big celebration of the one year mark of the always awesome Monday night Cabaret.

The photo story here shows highlights of that spectacular event. Among the list of entertainers who performed that night are Clint Holmes (Kelly’s husband), Kelly Clinton as Joe Joe, Mark Giovi, Reggie Brown, Lannie Counts, Dominick Allen, Jeff Neiman, Dennis Blair, Mark O’Toole, Kelly Clinton as Dorothy and Lena Prima as Scarecrow, Lorraine Hunt Bono, Kevin Turner, John Clinton, Annetta Bonner, Andrew Lopez and Cassie Finley-Jones, J.T. Thompson, Kevin Cordova, Kelly Clinton as Chip ‘N Dale, Lisa Gay and Tony Drake, Barbara Pasqui, Louis Sebastian and the band with Mike Clark on keys and Billy Adams on drums.

Several of Kelly’s biggest fans including Jonathan Bollas and Dr. Warren Wheeler, Perry and Diane Paschall, and Bill Bane presented flowers and gifts to honor the star of the show. The fabulous anniversary cake was custom ordered by the Bootlegger and it was decorated with various photos of Kelly and her A-Team members taken over the past year.

All in all, the evening was a tremendous celebration of Kelly Clinton and all the phenomenal entertainers who have performed at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret over the past year.

Here’s to the awesome entertainer Kelly Clinton, to the fabulous talent she welcomes to her open mic show every Monday night, to her A-Team members and to the Bootlegger Bistro for keeping “Vintage Vegas” going strong in the city known as the Entertainment Capital of the World.
Come On Down!! Perform, Promote Your Gig, Dine In, Chill Out, It's Always a Blast!!!
Bootlegger Bistro, 7700 Las Vegas Blvd. South
Reservations: 703-736-4939

The Buzz: Entertainment Blast + Celebrate Monday Night!!!

2010-05-29T09:28:00.000-07:00

The awesome entertainer Kelly Clinton was back from New York Monday night to launch another evening of fabulous Cabaret entertainment at the Bootlegger Bistro. Kelly started the show rocking out on the wonderful Stevie Wonder tune, I Wish. After introducing band members, musical director, Mike Clark, drummer Billy Adams, Kevin Lyon on guitar and then DJ/special effects guy, Kevin Cordova and Bootlegger host, J.T. Thompson, Kelly thanked Mark O’Toole for guest hosting the show on May 17. Kelly followed that thank you up with an impersonation of her mother Ellie reporting on what a great job Mark did. Funny stuff, the crowd loved it!!!

Kelly Clinton is the Entertainment Director for the Stirling Club at Turnberry Towers. Kelly will be headlining at the Club every Friday and Saturday night throughout the month of June.

News Flash: Next Monday night, May 31, 2010 marks the 52nd weekly performance of Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro. Please join us for the First Anniversary Celebration!!!
SURPRISE CELEBRITY GUESTS WILL BE THERE!!!!!!!!

On with the show: First up at the mic was the fabulous singer from Buffalo, New York, Don Allen Hunley. Don’s the fellow who did a complete turnaround trip from Vegas to L.A. and back just to make it to the Bootlegger to perform last week at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret. He made it time to be last up at the mic but this Monday Don led the parade of Cabaret entertainers with his terrific performance of that great Blues number, Stormy Monday.

Then Don and Kelly went into a spontaneous jam which was really awesome!! The audience shouted a call for more! Don Allen Hunley wowed the crowd again with his fabulous rendition of the Billie Holiday version of God Bless the Child.

Great job Don!

Next came singer/guitarist Yukon Jack Lohman who was back for his second show at the Cabaret. Yukon Jack gave another terrific performance of Ring of Fire, by the Man in Black, Johnny Cash.
Yukon Jack Lohman is a newcomer to Vegas but a longtime professional singer who just closed an eight-year run performing his “Hillbilly Sing” show at California’s Sea World. Welcome to Vegas Jack!!!

The fantabulous Lannie Counts stepped on stage next to give another awesome Cabaret performance starting with a classic hit by the Temptations, My Girl. During that number Lannie also showed off some very cool Motown moves. Lannie Counts is an incredible singer/entertainer with an astonishing vocal range which he certainly verified during his next number, I Think I’m Going Out of My Head, by Little Anthony and the Imperials. Go Lannie, Go Lannie!!!

Right after that, Kelly announced there was a young lady in the house who was celebrating her 21st birthday. Kelly asked Mark O’Toole to make the day even more special for the lovely birthday girl Lindsey by singing her the Birthday song. Mark who just loves to ham it up just couldn’t resist standing up on a chair to sing the Happy Birthday tune to Lindsey!!!

Now it was Mark O’Toole on center stage with an fabulous performance of Maybe Next Time. Here’s a tidbit about Mark you may not know ---Mark O’Toole was the winner of Star Search in 1994!! He appeared at major Strip hotels for close to twenty years until he faced a battle with cancer that took him away from show biz for two long years.

Now the fantastic entertainer Mark O’Toole is back and appearing in the Ravello Lounge at the M Resort in Henderson on Saturday nights. Showtime 6:30 pm to 8 pm.

Speaking of Star Search we had another winner in the house, Martin Mancuso, AKA Ricochet Rabbit, formerly of the Footlockers dance team that made it to the win on the televised talent competition over 20 years ago. Martin Mancuso is best known now as one of the top musicians in Las Vegas. He started his Cabaret show by performing a beautiful clarinet solo of Feel Like Making Love.

Then down went the horn and with lightening speed Martin made the switch into his next act, his hilarious comedy take on the character Iron Man. There was no stopping this triple-threat performer who tore the house down when he ‘ricocheted’ into a lock-dance exhibition for his grand finale.

Martin Mancuso is an extraordinary entertainer!!! Martin is currently working on an upcoming Fremont Street Variety Show.

Kelly invited the duo group Finley-Jones up to the mic for their second time Cabaret performance. The duo combines the talents of 19-year-old guitarist Andrew Lopez and 17-year-old vocalist, Cassie Finley-Jones. The group gave a wonderful performance of Zombie, a protest song by the Irish band Cranberries from their 1994 album No Need To Argue. The alternative grunge/metal sound of the music was an opportunity for Andrew Lopez to rock out on the heavy guitar riffs while the lovely Cassie Finley-Jones sang out her wonderful vocal tones.

The next entertainer, song stylist Wendy Fleming never fails to astonish the crowd with her powerful soulful vocal style. Chicago girl Wendy blew us away with her vampy rendition of the song Ain’t No Sunshine by Soul Legend Bill Withers. Wendy Fleming is hot, hot, hot!!! We want more!!

This was just about the time we heard a big voice from the sidelines say something like ‘I worked a lot of hours on this and I’m playing it now!’ The voice belonged to Kevin Cordova who had put together what may be described as a 'musical montage' consisting of fifteen different songs that played fast change styles ranging from Elvis to swing music to country and hard rock to opera and on and on.

Kelly Clinton was on center stage when Kevin turned up the sound that started off with an Elvis tune which 'Kelly the dancing machine' picked right up on and followed it through changing her dance routine just as fast as the song switched to another range which was every 15 to 30 seconds or so for 15 changes!!!! Can’t wait to see the tape. What an amazing premiere performance!!!! No rehearsal and Kelly only heard the track that Kevin created once before the show!!!! WOW!!!!!

Back to the open mic line up:
Michael Cagle was on fire when he gave his super powerful performance of And I’m Telling You from the hit movie Dream Girls. Michael always sings his heart out whenever he performs. Soon the powerhouse vocals of Michael Cagle could very well be heard on radio stations all around the land! Michael’s first original single will be released this summer on the Brooklyn West Records label and distributed by Universal Records.

Best of luck to you Michael Cagle.

Kelly’s husband, headliner Clint Holmes is back in town and it’s always a big treat for Cabaret goers and other entertainers to watch Clint perform. So after just a little bit of coaxing from Kelly and from the cheering crowd, Clint came on stage to “do a little something simple.” We all know very well that when the fantastic artist Clint Holmes presents 'a little something simple' like the song “Satin Doll” it will always turn into a knock-out performance. And it did!!! Thank you Clint!!!!

Clint Holmes will headline with Susan Anton, Dominick Allen and Martin Nievera in the group show, Vocal Soup at The Orleans Hotel Casino on June 12 and June 13. Get your tickets now!

Back to the Cabaret…..This was certainly a star-studded show Monday night with our next performer being the sensational singer/entertainer and recording artist, Early Clover!! Early Clover has appeared all over the world and is probably best-known in Vegas as the lead singer with the famous R&B/Rock and Roll group, Cornell Gunter’s Coasters. The legendary group has appeared at the Sahara Hotel Casino for 12 years running. Early Clover is an awesome solo performer who gave us a wonderful rendition of the Sam Cooke tune, A Change Is Gonna Come. The song was released in about 1963 and soon became an anthem for the American Civil Rights Movement. Of course the crowd wanted to hear more from the magnificent entertainer so Early Clover went into his exciting presentation of the Otis Redding song, Try A Little Tenderness. Wow!

The star performer, Early Clover will headline this Sunday night, May 30, 2010, at Kelly Clinton’s Celebrity Spotlight at the Bootlegger Bistro. Showtime 8:30 pm to 10 pm. Call for dining room reservations now at 702-736-4939.

Kelly introduced “super stars” Lisa Gay and Tony Drake who were joined by their guest, the fantastic drummer Nat Scott and our own Maestro, Mike Clark on the keys. Lisa started off their first number with a little anecdote about their hometown where the city’s own dance is called the L.A. Stomp. Lisa can really do those moves and she did the Stomp during the intro to the rockin song, Thank You. Nat Scott did an amazing drum solo, then the awesome Tony Drake took his spot playing sizzling guitar. For their second number, the group performed You’ll Never Find by Lou Rawls. Tony Drake toured for many years with Lou Rawls until the late, great singer’s passing in 2006. The music directed by master guitarist Tony Drake combined with vocal stylist Lisa Gay’s soft , sexy yet powerful tones and riffs always makes for a very exciting and captivating performance. Wow!! They did it again!

Lisa Gay with Tony Drake and the Gentlemen of Thrill performed at the United Negro College Fund event at the Sun Coast Hotel/Casino on Sunday May 23, 2010.

Song stylist Annetta Bonner was up next with her fabulous Jazz rendition of the popular song Autumn Leaves. Annetta has a great voice and she did a terrific job on this famous song that is considered both a pop standard and a jazz standard. Annetta Bonner, come back soon!!!!

America’s Got Talent contender, Billy Martin was in town for the second level of the competition so he dropped by to show us the kind of talent that got him a winning place in the Florida contest. Since Billy wanted to perform the John Paul Jones arrangement of Story of Life but didn’t have a track with him, he decided to sing A cappella. Billy Martin did great and we wish him the best of luck.

Lou Fossessca who hails from Youngstown, Ohio was a first time performer at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret. Like so many aspiring singers, Lou chose to sing with a track and he gave a nice performance of the classic tune, Smile.

Following Lou was Jerry G, a wonderful singer who recently picked up on his dream of becoming a professional performer, a dream that he left behind when he became a family man many decades ago. Jerry G has a full opera voice and he drops by every few months to perform at the open mic. This night he gave his soft, then powerful rendition of the Italian/English version of Sometimes I Dream.
Gotta love a guy with a heartfelt quest!!

Okay, we are coming to the last two performers of the evening and the battery on the camera is signaling recharge time. Oops --Our next singer, Louisa from Los Angeles will have to come back to perform again at the Cabaret. She did a fine job on the Blues tune, Fifth House. We did get a quick shot of Louisa this time but it could be a lot better.

Last up but never least is that wonderful guy DJ/Special effects man and powerful singer, Kevin Cordova, AKA Sexy Manuel. Kevin gave a rockin’ performance of All Right Now.
Kevin can do it all! Need a really awesome DJ for a wedding or special event? Kevin Cordova is the man!

That's the wrap up on the 51st Monday night show. Next Monday night, May 31st, is a celebration of the First Anniversary of the very successful show, Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro!!!!!

Get your reservations now at
702-736-4838........ See you there!!

MORE SNAPSHOTS 5-24-10

ALWAYS A BLAST!!!!!!

The Buzz: Another Incredible Evening of Entertainment

2010-05-22T10:08:00.000-07:00

The sensational singer, Mark O’Toole was guest M.C. at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret Monday night, May 17. What a great job Mark did in presenting the long line-up of fabulous entertainers. Mark is Mr. Personality Plus and a really terrific performer. He opened the show with All I Do is Dream of You, by Michael Buble`. Then he quickly moved on to begin the presentation of an amazing evening of open mic entertainment.

Kelly Clinton invited longtime friend and popular Las Vegas entertainer Mark O’Toole to guest host her Open Mic Cabaret because she knew he would make an outstanding M.C. ---and that he did!!

Kelly and her husband, Clint Holmes were in New York this week. Clint Holmes performed at a very special event at the famed Friar’s Club where he had the opportunity to sing his original tribute song to his longtime idol Harry Belafonte who was at the dinner along with many other famous celebrities. It was an exciting and very memorable evening for Kelly and Clint.

First up at the open mic was singer/pianist, Michael Shane, who kicked off his act by rockin’ out the tune, Brown Eyed Girl, by Van Morrison. When the crowd called for “more” the popular Las Vegas musician, Michael Shane, changed the pace to one of his favorite tunes by his favorite artist, Your Song, by Elton John. Great opening for a another fabulous evening of Cabaret entertainers!!!!

The very striking redhead and multi-talented young woman, Kaci Machacyk was up next with her remarkable performance of the pop-rock number, Speechless, by Lady Gaga. Kaci the singer is also the host of Vegas 5W, a popular Las Vegas-based web cast featuring people and places around town.

Kaci Machacyk will premiere her show, A Night with Kaci Machacyk, in Kelly Clinton’s Celebrity Spotlight at the Bootlegger Bistro on Sunday, May 23, at 8:30 pm. Join her for a night of opera, standards pop and rock tunes with special guests David Marinelli, Patty Powers and Tommy Vinci. Call for reservations at 702-736-4939.

The awesome singer with an extraordinary vocal range, Lannie Counts was back this week to perform the popular Stevie Wonder song, I Just Called to Say I Love You. The crowd went wild, screaming for more!!! Mike Clark and Billy Adams did an amazing job playing for Lannie as he went on to show his truly extraordinary vocal range during his performance of Ooh Baby Baby, by Smokey Robinson.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, boy can Lannie Counts sing!!!

Mark O’Toole pointed out earlier that celebrity Frankie Scinta of the headliner show group The Scintas was in the house. Now it was time for Frankie Scinta to step into the spotlight where he gave us his terrific rendition of Fly Me to the Moon with the band. Frankie mentioned that this open mic night was “how Vegas was” in the early days and “Thank God the Bootlegger is still here” to keep this kind of entertainment alive. Then Frankie invited Mark up to do a number together and the duo gave us a great show with a few of their impressions injected into an impromptu rendition of Summer Wind. Oh what fun!!!!

The lovely and talented Laurie Cook was back this week singing her latest selection , the Shania Twain version of The Woman in Me. Laurie Cook was born in the U.S.A. and raised in Canada. She’s been taking her act on tour for the past ten years. Her style is a soulful mix of country and R&B that well suits her full-bottom voice and appealing raspy vocal sound.

The very popular pianist Luis Sebastian was back to perform following a few weeks hiatus. The Open Mic fans love “Sebastian” for his vibrant style, wide selection of music and always impeccable performances. Welcome back Luis Sebastian!

Luis Sebastian plays at special events, weddings and parties at Mandalay Bay. He is also available for private parties.

Keep your eye on this next young performer from New York, 18 year-old Lauren Diaz. Lauren took to the grand piano for her powerful, soulful version of Dock of the Bay. Mark described her as ‘a little girl with a big voice’ when Lauren closed her “oh yeah! --wow” performance.

I tell you this was such a fun night with so many new performers showing up from different parts of the country. The next fellow who bills himself T-Bone hails from Chicago and he seemed elated to have the opportunity to show his talent in Las Vegas. Obviously a big Elvis fan, the clean cut singer wore shades during his really terrific performance of Presley’s Devil in Disguise.

The variety of talent that shows up every week for Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret is truly amazing!
Our next performer, Fritz, who bills his act as One Man Band, sings and plays the harmonica and guitar. Fritz started his show with a beautiful instrumental version of the Italian song Arrivederci Roma . Then Fritz sent out his second number to his wife as he began singing and playing Love Me Tender.

Fritz was born in Haiti and has been in the U.S.A. since the 1980’s. He performs his One Man Band show all over the country.

We always enjoy hearing from a singer/songwriter who brings an original tune to perform ---and promote it--- at the Monday night Cabaret. This week the artist, producer and arranger, Joe Ann Davis performed her latest work, a fabulous Blues number Bring Me Some Flowers. There wasn’t a woman in the audience that couldn’t relate to the message in the lyrics The tune is awesome and the singer, Joe Ann Davis gave a wonderful presentation of her marvelous piece.

Mark had no idea of who a performer named “Sexy Manuel” was until after he asked another young man if he was the guy! That made for a good laugh when “Sexy” ---as most of us know ---turned out to be our own DJ/special effects guy and singer, Kevin Cordova. Kevin gave a terrific performance of I’m Already There, a powerful and moving country song with a message from a man on the road to his family. Kevin sent it out to his own kids.
Love that Kevin!!

The next act is one Kelly Clinton would have loved to see!!! Joe Ann Davis, who we met earlier in the show, brought along her 13 year-old grandson Kwiesi Davis to perform another original tune called Grandma Song. The genre, as I can best describe it, is very positive soft rap. The lyrics Kwiesi sang in praise of his Grandma’s teachings should be broadcast on television for young people and on the radio for all to hear. The absolutely charming performer, Kwiesi Davis beamed with love for his Grandma Joe Ann Davis who sang back-up on stage with him during his terrific performance. Gotta love talented kids and talented grandmas!

It was my first time seeing Darrell Turner perform at the Open Mic. Darrell’s brother is the popular headliner Earl Turner. Apparently, talent runs in the Turner family. Darrell Turner gave us a fabulous performance of Wonderful World using his most excellent Louis Armstrong vocal style. We hope to see more of Darrell Turner soon.
Darrell Turner will perform at Nellis Air Force Base on June 19th.

Another wonderful and very moving presentation was next with a duo performance by 17 year-old vocalist Cassie Finley-Jones and 19 year-old guitarist Andrew Lopez of Las Vegas. The original song by Andrew Lopez was written as a tribute to their high school friend who had passed away. Cassie sang beautifully as Andrew played the heartfelt homage tune, Free.
Cassie and Andrew, thank you for sharing your talents and your hearts with all of us.

The lady in red, the very powerful singer Donna Whiteside was up next. Donna sang with plenty of soulful spirit during her fantastic Gladys Knight number, Neither One of Us.
We will have more about Donna Whiteside next time.

Now it was time for our headliner Mark O’Toole to take his place in the spotlight once more. Mark led into his song selection with a brief rundown of his encounter with stage-four cancer, a diagnosis that offered him a mere eight months to live. Mark wasn’t about to give into the prognosis and he spent two years in the hospital fighting for his life. He stood before us recovered and back on the stage to offer his very appropriate vocal suggestion for living, the Tim McGraw song, Live Like You Were Dying.
Thank you Mark. Thank you God.

Back to the open mic performers: Next up at the mic was young musician/singer Brandon Knaff who sings and plays Folk, Soul and Rock music. Brandon gave a terrific guitar/vocal presentation of the rock tune, Beverly.
Brandon Knaff plays at venues all around Las Vegas.

I may not have mentioned it earlier, but the band got plenty of workout Monday night just as they did with the next performer, singer/songwriter and musician ‘Yukon’ Jack Lohman. Jack, a big guy with a deep, rich baritone voice chose to perform a song by the Man in Black, Johnny Cash. The familiar hit tune, Ring of Fire, was written by June Carter before she married Cash. Her co-writer was Merle Kilgore.
Yukon Jack Lohman gave a really great performance singing and playing guitar.

The very interesting entertainer Jacqueline Armitage, who often appears at the Cabaret as herself or sometimes as a character she has created, chose to perform as the fine vocalist she is this Monday night. Using her operatic voice range, Jacqueline gave a wonderful presentation of Smoke Gets in Your Eyes.

The phenomenal Lisa Gay graced us with her moving performance of Somewhere in My Lifetime, by soul singer/songwriter, Phyllis Hyman. With her awesome vocal range, song stylist Lisa Gay can do it all from Jazz to R&B to Soul to Standards. It’s always an exciting experience to see and hear Lisa Gay perform.
Lisa Gay and her husband, famed guitarist Tony Drake, recently performed in the Hit Parade show at the Sun Coast Hotel Casino.

The last performer up at the mic, Don Hunley, a visitor to Las Vegas from Buffalo, NY did a one-day turnaround drive to L.A. and back to Vegas just so he could participate Monday night at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret. The crowd was so glad he did arrive in time to give us a really fabulous performance of a favorite Blues number, Stormy Monday. Don Hunley really rocked !!
What a great closing act for one more night of great Cabaret entertainment!!!

Special thanks to our guest host, Mark O’Toole for doing such a great job!!! And as always special thanks to Kelly Clinton’s A-team, musical director, Mike Clark, drummer, Billy Adams, Bootlegger host, J.T. Thompson and DJ/Special effects guy, Kevin Cordova.

Mark O'Toole is headlining in the Ravello Lounge at the fabulous "M" Resort in Henderson on Saturday evenings from 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm.

Kelly Clinton will be back Monday night, May 24, to present another great Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro!!!!!
Looking forward to seeing you all there!!!

Come on down!
Perform,
Promote Your Gig,

Dine In, Chill Out

It's always a BLAST!!!!

Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret
Bootlegger Bistro
7700 Las Vegas Blvd. South

Dining Room Reservations:

702-736-4939 That's a wrap guys!!!!!

The Buzz: Photoplay Issue - Oh What a Night!!!

2010-05-13T11:02:00.000-07:00

This photoplay edition is dedicated to the sensational Kelly Clinton and all the awesome singers, dancers and musicians that made this such a great night of entertainment at Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret on Monday, May 10, 2010

In this photoplay: Top to bottom, Kelly Clinton, Billy Adams, Mike Clark, Skye Dee Miles, Alex Christopher, Michael Cagle, Kelly & Elisa Furr, Lori Simpson, Martin Mancuso, Elisa Furr,

Kaci Machacyk, J.T. Thompson & Kelly, Andrew Scott, Michael Gagle & Elisa Furr,

Lannie Counts, Lannie & the fab band, back up singers, Lannie, Kaci & Tommy Vinci, Justina Lee Black, dancer, Van the Man, Danny Wright, Susan Haller,

Breonte Porter (Sylk) & niece, Mia Porter,

Sylk & Kelly, Lisa Gay, Tony Drake, Lisa & Tony, Michael Evans, Ron Star, Dan Cheathom,

Amani Sims

Thanks to all the wonderful entertainers

who performed and the great audience that made this awesome show another night to remember at Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro!!!! News Flash: Headliner Mark O'Toole will guest host Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret on Monday night, May 17. The sensational Mary Oliver will headline in Kelly Clinton's Celebrity Spotlight at the Bootlegger on Sunday night, May 16. Showtime 8:30 pm. Make your reservations now at 702-736-4939 - Bootlegger Bistro,7700 Las Vegas Blvd. South

See you there!!!!

The Buzz: The Healing Tune + The Amazing Artists

2010-05-08T10:44:00.000-07:00

The fabulous entertainer Kelly Clinton kicked off her Monday night Open Mic Cabaret with a number that suited her mood of the day. Kelly said she had been feeling a bit off and kind of sulky all day so it was the perfect time to get it all out with an audience favorite, her original tune, the PMS Blues!!! Kelly took us right into her “easily irritated, my emotions are out of whack” approach via some really powerful vocals and her lively animated act. The bluesy song she wrote “for womankind” over 20 years ago still works as the laugh at yourself and let others laugh with you comedic healing tune it was meant to be. The sensational Kelly Clinton says she was a very young girl when she wrote and recorded PMS Blues, but “It won’t be long before I’ll be writing the sequel!!!!” The amazing entertainer, Kelly Clinton, is always on and she kept it up all night long!!!

First off came the introduction of Kelly’s great band members, musical director Mike Clark on the keys and the stick man, Billy Adams on the drums. Then Kelly turned to intro Kevin Cordova, the DJ/all around special effects guy who adds his extraordinary touch to the show every week. Kevin brought in all those fabulous stage lights we saw Monday night. J.T. Thompson, the fourth member of Kelly’s A-Team was off for the night.

Let the Open Mic begin!!

Reversing the usual format of this blog, we are featuring our last performer of the evening in the first spotlight. Those who did the hang all the way to the end of the show got to see the incredible performance by tap dancer extraordinaire, Van the Man. Van stepped up on a 4 foot by 4 foot portable wooden stage surrounded on three sides by microphones to begin the highlight presentation of the evening!! Van the Man was so awesome he blew us all away with a performance that surely paid homage to all of the Legends of Tap. If anyone can revive this great art form, the astonishing hoofer, Van the Man can!!!!!

Van mentioned he had stopped in to watch Kelly’s Cabaret show a few weeks back, That's when he told himself, “I’ve got to be a part of this!” Message to Van the Man: We want you back!!

First up once again this week was the soulful singer, Lannie Counts who gave us his fabulous rendition of the R&B tune, What’s Going On. We couldn’t help notice the beautiful royal red velvet shirt Lannie wore. It was gorgeous!! Lannie went into his second number with the wonderful band behind him. Lannie had some really powerful vocals going during his smooth and soft version of that marvelous tune, What a Wonderful World.

Boy can Lannie Counts sing!!.

Newsflash: This coming Monday night's show will be broadcast LIVE via the web at www.SeeItLive.tv ........by producer, Shawn Eiferman

Singer/impersonator and producer, Elisa Furr was at the Bootlegger Monday to celebrate her son’s fifth birthday. Kelly invited her up to do a number and Elisa obliged with a marvelous (as always) performance of the upbeat tune Almost Like Being in Love.

Elisa is an outstanding singer and Celine Dion tribute artist. When she's not taking her act on tour, Elisa Furr is always working on a multitude of projects in Las Vegas.

The lovely actress/singer and web TV host, Kaci Machacyk was up next with her terrific rendition of Speechless, the 2009 recording by Lady Gaga. Kaci’s second tune was the hot disco number Last Dance.

Kaci Machacyk will headline at Kelly Clinton's Celebrity Spotlight on Sunday, May 26, at the Bootlegger Bistro. Kaci’s featured guest performers are Patty Powers, David Marinelli and Tommy Vinci.
Showtime: 8:30 pm. Reservations: 702-736-4939

“Chicago Boy” Perry Danos, a good looking guy with a wonderful voice and plenty of sex appeal gave us his fantastic version of Over the Rainbow, one of the songs he recorded on his jazz album Swinging’ on the Moon. Then the fantastic singer/songwriter and recording artist turned up the beat for his hot performance of Save the Last Dance for Me. Hot! Hot! Hot!

Perry Danos made his Las Vegas debut in the main showroom at the Orleans Hotel Casino several months ago. Just a week ago he was back at The Orleans for another engagement.

The awesome pianist Danny Wright gave a wonderful concert this Monday night with his remarkable instrumental performance of My Miracle followed by Somewhere in Time. Danny Wright was flown in from Texas to open the Aria Hotel/Casino in City Center several months back. He is now signed as a featured artist with the Bellagio Resort.

The amazing Danny Wright is playing at the Cabaret Showroom in the Liberace Museum on May 9, starting at 6 pm --- and at Grace in the Desert Episcopal Church in Summerlin on May 16.

Singer/comedienne and all around entertainer, Barbara Brighton came by to share her talent at the open mic. Barbara kicked off her act with the up tempo tune, Start of Something, generally known as This Could Be the Start of Something written by Steve Allen in 1956. Barbara has appeared at Caesars Palace and the Desert Inn ---she also had her own talk show based in L.A. Barbara is a very funny entertainer who had the crowd laughing at her “women talk” comedy. Then Barbara Brighton and Kelly Clinton shared the spotlight with a rush of celebrity impressions.
“Barbara Brighton, I love her!”.... Kelly Clinton.

Next came a triple-treat performance starting with singer Gloria Papin presenting a powerful rendition of that very popular song, At Last. Gloria followed up by introducing the amazing trombone player Michael Evans to accompany her on Someone to Watch Over Me.
Adding to the mix of wonderful performers Gloria Papin brought up the remarkable singer, Wesley Dobrow, for their amazing duet number, Neither One of Us.

We’ve all heard the saying, “Three’s a crowd” but in this case the awesome triple play performance was an absolute crowd-pleaser!!!

Roy Orbison impressionist, Donnie Fox, costumed in the image of the late recording artist, presented two of the celebrated legend’s greatest hits with his rendition of Cryin’ and Oh, Pretty Woman.

Accompanying himself on guitar, Donnie strikes an uncanny likeness to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame star, Roy Orbison, the performer Elvis Presley crowned as “the greatest singer in the world.”
Thanks for the memories Donnie Fox.

The lovely singer Lenore Rishel was up next with the original version of the swinging tune Fly Me to The Moon that included the intro lyrics that she spoke so beautifully.
Lenore then presented her fabulous version of The Rest of Your Life, a classic standard recorded by many great artists including Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand and Michael Bolton.

Newly signed recording artist and powerhouse singer Michael Cagle stepped on stage to give his commanding performance of I Will Always Love You, by Whitney Houston.

Then Michael and Kelly Clinton got it going with a fun loving duet version of Proud Mary with lots of Tina Turner moves and shakes by Kelly, the“dancing machine!”

Michael Cagle’s first single will be out this summer on the Brooklyn West Records label. Michael announced plans to debut his first release at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret!!! We are all excited about Michael’s career move and we are most certainly looking forward to being the first to see him perform his major debut recording.

Just about then, DJ/Special effect guy Kevin Cordova turned on something that had Kelly lip sinking the popular and funny baby giggle bit before she stopped him with “Stop it you!!”

The super singer, Terri Cola was up next accompanied by the band and the exceptional slide trombone player, Michael Evans. Terri did an excellent performance of God Bless the Child that gave Michael a really great opportunity to show his stuff on the horn. For her next number the fabulous Terri Cola did a hot swinging version of Lady Is a Tramp. Terri sure knows how to choose musicians. Her hot tune
rendition was truly enhanced by Michael Evans and the fabulous Kelly Clinton band.

A gentleman that spend most of the night enjoying the show, singer Dean Cobb, had his opportunity to give us a tune when Kelly brought him on stage. Dean did a great job performing with the band on Lost in a Masquerade.

Dean mentioned how well he remembers seeing Kelly's husband, headliner Clint Holmes open for “Georgie” Jessel back in the 1970’s up in the Catskills. Dean Cobb is from San Diego but we expect he’ll be back in Vegas soon to perform at the open mic again.

Bobby Brooks Hamilton was back in town following his latest tour to give us another of his dynamite performances. We are so grateful to have Bobby come by whenever he is in town. He is such a pro and an awesome entertainer. Bobby started off with the popular R&B/Blues number Mustang Sally. Then when the call for “Do your Little Richard” came from the crowd Bobby obliged with his absolutely, right on impression of the Rock and Roll legend performing the hit tune Good Golly Miss Molly. WOW!!

But Bobby's performance wasn’t over yet. He invited the very popular guy of the night, trombone player Michael Evans to share the stage for his final number. Bobby Brooks Hamilton closed out his stupendous act with Roy Hamilton’s, Since I Fell For You.

Bobby Brooks Hamilton is scheduled to appear in the Hit Parade Show at the Suncoast on Thursday ---then he's off on another European tour.

A couple of the many demands for Bobby Brooks Hamilton’s Little Richard impression came from two fellow entertainers in the audience, singer Johnny Fortuno and legend impersonator, Rob Garrett.
Johnny Fortuno is appearing in Addison’s Lounge at the Rampart Casino on May 14-15.
Rob Garrett is billed as America’s #1 Neil Diamond Tribute Artist. He is a Legends in Concert alumni and recently performed his Tribute show at the Cannery Casino Hotel.

Kelly introduced “super model” singer/entertainer and song writer, Judy Brown who stepped up to the mic to sing one of her very own favorite songs, I’m In the Mood For Love. Judy followed up that beautiful performance with a fabulous rendition of another wonderful classic tune, Inseparable.

Judy Brown is appearing at the Salo-Salo Restaurant on Sunday, May 14 Showtime 9 pm.

There were more good times ahead as we got closer to the end of another spectacular show.
The magnificent singer, Avis O. Chaney was back for the second time at the Cabaret with a remarkable performance of Kelly Clinton’s favorite song, You’re the Best Thing, by Gladys Knight.

On her second incredible number, Avis had the back up support of four other terrific singers, Terri Cola, Perry Danos, Lisa Gay and Kelly Clinton. What a great show led by Avis O. Chaney, with back up band members Mike Clark, Billy Adams and four great singers performing behind the scenes!!!

What a blast!

Now we’ve reached the end of another great night of outstanding entertainment. As mentioned earlier, the show closed with the astonishing tap dance performance by Van the Man ---that was followed by 'good night and thank you all' from the loose as a goose 'dancing machine,' Kelly Clinton.

We are looking forward to another exciting evening of fabulous entertainment coming up next Monday night at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro!!!

Please Join Us on Monday Nights!!

Perform, Promote Your Gig, Dine In, Chill Out, HAVE A BLAST!

Bootlegger Bistro
7700 Las Vegas Blvd. South
Dining Room Reservations: 702-736-4939
Showtime 9 pm
MORE PICS 5-3-2010

Everybody: Dance Like Nobody's Watching!! Go for It!!

See You Next Monday Night!!

The Buzz: The Blues Brings Cheers + More Great Music

2010-05-01T01:31:00.000-07:00

Kelly Clinton was back Monday night!!!! And so was her husband, Clint Holmes. Kelly and Clint had just returned that afternoon from the successful run of Clint’s fabulous play, My Own Song, at the Flat Rock Theater in North Carolina.

After Clint introduced Kelly she opened her Cabaret show with a phenomenal tribute to Lady Day, the one and only Billy Holiday. Kelly wore a 1940’s style black velvet couture dress by designer, Jean Paul Gaultier and her hair was done in the sophisticated style of the 1930's and 40's. The way Kelly looked knocked the crowd dead before she even began the highlight performance of the evening.

The sensational Kelly Clinton began her series of five Blues numbers recorded by 'Lady Day' starting with Ain’t Nobody’s Business, followed by Them Their Eyes, then to The Blues Ain’t Nothing and God Bless The Child. Before she started her all-time favorite Billy Holiday tune, Kelly talked about the tragic addiction Billie spoke to in the lyrics of the song, Good Morning Heartache. Kelly’s tribute to Lady Day was brilliant!! The excited crowd jumped to their feet in a standing ovation with loud cheers for Kelly Clinton’s extraordinary presentation.

Kelly’s couture gown was a gift from one of her biggest fans, Jonathan Bollas, who was so taken by Kelly’s appearance Monday night that he told her “You are the most gorgeous creature I have ever seen in my life!” Well thank you Jonathan!!

You can see a video of Kelly performing "Good Morning Heartache" on YouTube or via the link on her website, www.kellyclinton.com

NEWS FLASH: Las Vegas Weekly, The List Issue, April 22, 2010: The multi-talented entertainer Kelly Clinton was named #1 on the list of Top Six Elvis Impressionists in Las Vegas. John Katsilometes, Las Vegas Weekly staff writer.

Before bringing up the first open mic performer of the evening Kelly introduced her A-team members, the people who help her make the Cabaret a real happening ---musical director Mike Clark, drummer Billy Adams, DJ/All around special effects guy, Kevin Cordova and Bootlegger host, J.T. Thompson.

First up was the amazing singer/entertainer, Lannie Counts. Lannie did such a fabulous rendition of the soulful country number, I Can’t Stop Loving You, the crowd demanded more, more. The ladies were swooning as the romantic crooner Lannie Counts presented a magnificent performance of one of his favorite songs, Moon River. Lannie was accompanied by Mike Clark who gave an astounding performance on the keys.
"I Can’t Stop Loving You" was written and composed by singer/songwriter and musician, Don Gibson who recorded it in 1957. Five years later, R&B/soul artist, Ray Charles recorded it on his groundbreaking album, Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music. When the song was released in 1962 the cover version was ranked number one in the Billboard Hot 100, as well as the U. S. R&B and Adult Contemporary charts.

Kelly introduced the remarkable vocalist, Laurie Cook. “She’s kinda country, kinda soul and kinda rock and roll.” Laurie is a fabulous singer with a powerful full-bottom country sound and an amazing vocal range who belts the heck out of some very choice tunes. Before starting her number, Laurie sent out her selection for this evening to someone in the audience who is very special to her. Laurie Cook’s hot rendition of Black Velvet is so good the tune just may become known as her signature song. After Laurie finished her number, Kelly said Laurie was great and added a big “Vah, Vah, Vah Voom!!”
Black Velvet was written by Canadian musicians David Tyson and Christopher Ward. It was recorded in 1989 by Canadian singer, Alannah Myles.

Comedian/entertainer, Willie Asbury was back with a lot more hilarious stuff from his extraordinary act. This is one funny fellow. Once again, Willie blew us away with his fantastic impressions of the greats from the boxing world, starting with the days of network only television and the voices of Howard Cosell, Mohammad Ali, Joe Frazier and ending with his killer takes on Leon Spinx and Mike Tyson. There was more, a lot more, including his wonderful opening song by Barry White.
You can catch Willie Asbury’s entire act at the L.A. Comedy Club in the Four Queens Hotel/Casino in Downtown Las Vegas every Friday night.

The up and coming starlet, Kaci Machacyk was next at the mic performing a wonderful version of Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You, by Frankie Valli.

Kaci Machacyk will headline at Kelly Clinton's Celebrity Spotlight at the Bootlegger Bistro on Sunday night, May 23rd. Join her for a night of opera, standards, pop and rock along with her featured performers, David Marinelli, Patty Powers and Tommy Vinci.

　

Michael Cagle was bursting with joyful news right after his powerful version of the beautiful song, Over The Rainbow. Mike Clark and Billy Adams did an awesome job playing for Michael during his outstanding performance. The big news from Michael was he has just signed on to record with Brooklyn West Records, a new Las Vegas-based record label associated with Universal Records. Universal Records handles national and international distribution for Brooklyn West. As you may recall, Michael was originally signed under “artist development” with World Movement Records but that arrangement ended in good standing through negotiations handled by Michael Cagle and his manager Lynn Green of National Entertainment. Michael’s first single, a mix of Pop/R&B, will be released this summer. Go Michael, go Michael!!! Congratulations!!!!

A lot of talented people gather at the Bootlegger Bistro on Monday nights, sometimes just to enjoy Kelly Clinton and her open mic show ---and occasionally to step right up, take their place on stage and do their own thing. That’s how it goes with performers like Gilly Brady who always seems to enjoy the show and every now and then gets on stage to entertain the crowd. Monday night the seasoned performer turned casino host sang the popular old standard, It’s Almost Like Being in Love. On his second tune, Where or When, Gilly had Mike Clark take it on the bridge with a “C’mon Baby.” Mike had his keyboard jumpin’ with Gilly snappin’ his fingers to the beat! Talent and fun ----a winning combination!!!

The young man who is probably one of the best Michael Jackson tribute artist ever, Isaiah Mercado, was back this week for another performance of his outstanding act. Isaiah recently moved to Vegas and he’s been delighting the crowds for several weeks now. Each week we learn a little more about this talented artist. For one thing, the gifted performer plays five instruments! For another, Isaiah received recognition from many television and news stations in the U.S. and around the world when he showcased his talent at the memorial service held in the “King of Pop’s” home town of Gary, Indiana. Monday night, despite a technical problem, Isaiah 'the trooper' completed his first Jackson number, Man in the Mirror. Then he went on with an awesome performance of Human Nature.

Isaiah Mercado appeared on the Dennis Bono Show this week to promote his Michael Jackson tribute show set for Sunday night, May 2, at 8:30 pm. in the Celebrity Spotlight at the Bootlegger Bistro. Kelly Clinton Productions presents Isaiah Mercado: Michael & Me. Get your reservations at 702-736-4939.

Popular singer/theatrical performer, Buffie Lucas, gave a fabulous performance of Ribbon in the Sky, a hit tune back in 1982 written/produced and recorded by Stevie Wonder. The soulful Buffie received rave reviews from the crowd and the band! Buffie Lucas is a powerful vocalist who starred in last Summer’s hit production of Once On An Island in the open-air theater at Spring Mountain Ranch. Buffie was back on stage later in the evening for a second outstanding presentation.

　

The fantastic pianist, Luis Sebastian was back this week with another outstanding performance of a medley of wonderful high energy music. Sebastian, as he likes to be called, is looking into the possibility of entering the annual piano competition sponsored by the Liberace Museum. He'd make a tough competitor that’s for sure.
Currently, Luis Sebastian appears at the Mandalay Bay performing for special events, corporate gigs and weddings.

The amazing Billie Holiday tribute artist, Janicey Brar, who bills herself as Lady Day whenever she performs at Kelly’s Cabaret, took her place on center stage to present her astonishing visual and vocal impression of the great Blues singer. For her first number, “Lady Day” gave an excellent rendition of the Jazz standard, But Beautiful by Jimmy Van Heusen. Next was her remarkable take on the Billy Holiday version of I’m a Fool To Want You, a song written by Frank Sinatra, Jack Wolf and Joel S. Herron.

Janicey Brar will perform her Tribute to Lady Day at the Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood, Ca. on May 5.

The lovely and super talented singer, Barbara Pasqui, just recently arrived back in Las Vegas after a two-year absence. Barbara went back to her home country of Italy to spend time with her parents but now she’s back here and ready to get on to her music. This was Barbara’s first appearance at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret and she gave an amazing performance of Night and Day. Barbara followed up with the 1974 hit tune by Roberta Flack, Feel Like Making Love. Many of you probably remember the very popular Barbara Pasqui from her appearances at a multitude of Vegas venues including Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse where she worked with Mike Clark, The Ice House - Funk Jazz Lounge, and Mandalay Bay, just to mention a few. Welcome back Barbara!

Country singer and soon to be recording artist, J.P. Cates gave a terrific performance of Beer in Mexico, a hit single in 2007 written and recorded by country artist, Kenny Chesney. J. P. has just signed with Brooklyn West Records, the recording company here in Las Vegas associated with Universal Records. Brooklyn West’s CEO/Producer is Platinum selling producer, Michael Campbell. J.P. Cates will be recording and releasing a country single this Summer as a Country Artist under the Brooklyn West label! Congratulations J.P.!!!

Kelly Clinton welcomed back the awesome singer Rodney Arnett to the open mic stage. Rodney always excites the crowd with his fabulous voice ---this time he gave an astonishing presentation of Autumn Leaves starting the tune in a slow tempo and picking up the beat for a swinging version of the popular jazz and pop standard. The crowd loved it when Clint Holmes joined in on stage for a fabulous improvised scat duo just before Rodney Arnett closed out his extraordinary performance.

Nineteen-year old singer/songwriter and musician, Jon Madison, an aspiring performer who sings and plays his own original Indie rock tunes, did a remarkable presentation of two of his songs, Dig, and Right Side Up. It’s always a pleasure to experience and to encourage the performances of up and coming artists like Jon Madison.

Kelly brought on one of the most awesome singers in town, the phenomenal artist, Tim Wells. Kelly had some comedic fun while vocalizing a message to the tall handsome fella’ about just how much she likes “Bald Headed Men.” Then it was Tim’s turn to put on his fabulous performance of A House Is Not a Home, written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David. The demanding crowd wanted more, so Tim followed up with yet another astonishing presentation of For All We Know. His performance brought the screaming crowd to a standing ovation!!! Afterward, Kelly told Tim Wells, “You are a singing god!”

Tim Wells was formerly with the U.S. Army Field Band, the Musical Ambassadors of the Army. He just finished a one-man show as Nat King Cole in Alabama and now resides in Las Vegas.

It was a real treat to see seasoned performer, Bobby Mayo Jr., carry out his fabulous tribute to the man from New Orleans who “turned him on” to become a musician. Bobby took to the grand piano to play the music of R&B/Jazz and Rock and Roll great, the one and only, Fats Domino. Bobby has been performing all of his life, starting as a “kid actor” and later moving on to become the inspired musician/entertainer and tribute artist he is today.
Currently, Bobby Mayo Jr. plays Dean Martin in The Rat Pack is Back at the Plaza Hotel/Casino.

Pianist, Steven Rosato returned to the open mic to perform a beautiful piano solo. Steven is quite a remarkable musician with no professional experience who recently move to Las Vegas to attend pharmacy school. We are sure to hear more music concerts from Steven in the weeks to come.

Kelly introduced R&B soul singer, Ivan Reid. The pair of dancing machines (Kel & Ivan) wowed the crowd with some really cool moves just before Ivan stepped into the spotlight for his own show. The soulful singer Ivan Reid rocked the house with that great Marvin Gaye tune, Heard It Through the Grapevine.

Singer, Avis O’Bryant-Chaney spend most of the evening cheering on the entertainers and enjoying the show before Kelly invited her to step up to the mic and give us a show of her own. Avis amazed the crowd with her astonishing rendition of that great Gladys Knight tune, Midnight Train to Georgia. Avis is another newcomer to Las Vegas but she’s already singing with the Las Vegas Gospel Choir and she’s performing right now as a back up vocalist for Trent Carlini at the Hilton Hotel on Monday nights.

Although Tupau Tony Ainu’u was on stage last week to win the best ‘Elvis moves’ contest, this was his first time singing at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret. The strong bass vocalist, Tupau Tony presented a terrific rendition of the Lou Rawls hit tune, You’ll Never Find.
Tony’s good friend Buffie Lucas added her touch to his number with back up vocals from off stage.

The end was near but the crowd was flying high on the music and that called for another great number to close the show. Kelly introduced the awesome vocalist, Lisa Gay and brought Buffie Lucas back up to join Lisa for their first time ever duet. It’s remarkable the way the two hot singers, Lisa and Buffie, meshed their talents to create an incredible improv performance of the Chaka Khan number SweetThing!! They rocked!!! Kelly joined in for the closing and another great night of entertainment at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret came to the end.

There will be a lot more great talent next Monday night at Kelly Clinton's Cabaret!
Come on down!

Perform,
Promote Your Gig,
Dine In, Chill Out,
Have a Blast!

Bootlegger Bistro, 7700 Las Vegas Blvd. South

Dining Room Reservations: 702-736-4939

More snapshots 4-26-10

　
Please Join Us Next Monday Night!!!!!

Kelly

The Buzz: A Hot Time in the Old Town Monday Nights!!

2010-04-24T11:29:00.000-07:00

What a blast it is every Monday night at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro. Last Monday was no exception when the star of Menopause the Musical, Skye Dee Miles stepped in to guest host the show while Kelly Clinton was in North Carolina with her husband, Clint Holmes, for the closing week of Clint’s play, My Own Song.

Skye kicked off the entertainment with her hot, exciting performance of that great blues number, Evil Gal Baby. Skye wore a knock out, sexy hot pink dress with matching shoes and a huge flower adornment in her hair. There’s just no limit to Skye’s talent as an entertainer, she’s fabulous. Add in all that fashion style and it’s not surprising that this month Skye is celebrating the one-year anniversary of her own boutique, Miles of Style located in Boonville, Missouri.

On with the show…..First up was marvelous singer Lannie Counts with a terrific performance of Tears of a Clown, the 1970 Motown hit by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles. Lannie is an awesome performer who works as a ‘Dealertainer’ at the Imperial Palace where he impersonates the great Stevie Wonder. For his second number, Lannie really blew us away with his powerful rendition of Just Once, by James Ingram.

Next came a fabulous performance by the young, beautiful and oh, so talented 10 year old, Kaela Johson-Smith. Kaela’s outstanding performance of Whitney Houston’s power ballad I Have Nothing brought the crowd to their feet for a standing ovation. Currently, Kaela studies voice at Deblanc Music Academy. Keep an eye on this young lady, she is without a doubt an up and coming future star!

The lovely Lori Simpson returned this week to rock out on her first number All Right, Okay, You Win, a popular tune recorded by such greats as Joe Williams, Billy Eckstine and Bette Midler. Lori followed up with a terrific performance of the swinging tune World on a String. Mike Clark’s fingers were jamming on the keys during the bridge and Billy Adams was kicking on the drums.
Lori Simpson recorded radio spots that have aired statewide for the Nevada Broadcaster’s Association. She’s now the voice on the information line for Hollywood and Vine Talent Casting in Hollywood, California. Lori is just getting back into the biz as a singer. She’s looking to do studio or live performance gigs, so keep this talented gal in mind.

A young and very personable singer, Alex Christopher stepped up next to perform the Michael Buble` version of Fly Me To The Moon. Alex has a wonderful voice and at only 19 years old he has developed a unique style of performing with plenty of personality to go with it. Alex was back later in the show for his second number, a super performance of My Way, the song written by Paul Anka and popularized by Frank Sinatra. Elvis Presley began performing the song in concert in the mid-70’s. Look for Alex Christopher and his dad, Paul Prandeke at The Variety Show at the South Point Casino on Sunday, April 25.

The grand piano got a real workout when four, yes four, super talented musicians played some really great piano Monday night. First up was prominent pianist Danny Wright who accompanied the lovely singer/songwriter Susan Haller for their performance of Walking in Faith, an original song composed by Danny Wright with lyrics by Susan Haller. Then Danny and Susan performed their special arrangement of the popular tune, Summertime.

Susan Haller is taking her true story, “A Dead Guy in My Daughter’s Bedroom” up to Seattle to perform at a reading/fundraiser for the Pikes Place Market Theater on May 5.

The amazing pianist Danny Wright is playing at the Liberace Museum on May 1, starting at noon and at Grace in the Desert Episcopal Church in Summerlin on May 16.

Isaiah Mercado demonstrated more of his outstanding talent during his show when he took to the 'grand' for a piano and vocal solo of Use Somebody, recorded by Kings of Leon. Isaiah was looking spectacular in his custom made silver leather jacket which really showed off during his next exciting performance of The Way You Make Me Feel. Isaiah is a magnificent Michael Jackson tribute artist who really has the natural look of the King of Pop. With his fabulous voice and all his MJ dance moves down to perfection, Isaiah really deserves a shot at auditioning for the forthcoming MGM Resorts/Cirque du Soleil show 'Michael Jackson and his music.' Currently Isaiah Mercado is auditioning for an upcoming tour. This week he will be performing for a wedding at Viva Las Vegas Chapel.

The beautiful singer Laurie Cook returned to the open mic this week with a fantastic performance of Desperado, the title song recorded by the Eagles on their 1973 album. Laurie Cook’s choice of the romantic love song was a perfect selection to show her remarkable vocal range and ability to perform in country rock style. Skye Dee Miles complimented Laurie on her fabulous vocal range with 'That was great. I heard some $50.00 notes!'
Now that's a compliment!!

Little did anyone guess what was to come next, not even Skye or the performer who spoke out from the audience with “Where the hell’s the band?!!!!” Mike Clark and Billy Adams scrambled quickly to get to their places. The entire performance was spontaneous right from the get go when the dynamic Bobby Brooks Hamilton stepped on stage and said “Okay guys what are we going to do.” Two seconds later the decision was made to go with the Ben E. King and the Drifters number, Stand By Me ---and the most explosive performance of the evening was underway!! We are talking, dynamite, smokin, on fire!!! Bobby starts off the song, then urges Skye to join him in a powerful duet. Let’s face it you don’t see hot, hot performers like these two set a place on fire like this

very often.

Okay so now Skye moves off stage and Bobby shoves the microphone under the nose of the fabulous singer, Elisa Furr. In a lightening second the statuesque lady with the big voice was on her feet and smokin big time. Skye gets on Bobby’s case for messing with that other woman and he’s backing up on center stage when a shout comes out from the crowd.

Before you could blink an eye, Miz Buffie Lucas using her most powerful voice was on stage giving Bobby an amazing vocal thing or two about how not to treat a woman. You really had to be there to see all the expressive antics that took place before, during and after Bobby, Skye and Buffie wrapped the number up to a roaring standing ovation. Talk about rocking the house! Talk about a hot damn performance! It was the BOMB!

Next, the dynamic Bobby Brooks Hamilton followed up with his terrific solo of 634-5789 (Soulville, U.S.A.) by Wilson Pickett.
Then Skye came on stage to enjoy Bobby gettin` down with his Elvis moves, shimmy and all............

................That led into the introduction of pianist extraordinaire Sebastian who came on stage doing some Elvis moves. Skye took that bit and ran with it by starting an Elvis contest between four guys including Sebastian, a gentleman named Rob, Bill Bane and Tupua Tony Ainu`u. The crowd judged each contestant by applause and Tupua Tony, who bills himself as the Elvis Beyonce Shaker, was declared the winner! Another bit of spontaneous fun!!

Now is was time for the awesome piano player Sebastian to perform another of his outstanding medleys starting with the Latin number Moliendo Café` followed by, Y.M.C.A, into Besame Mucho and the finale, I Will Survive. An up close view of the player at the piano is really something to see as Sebastian’s fingers bounce and fly from the piano keys to the upper keyboard and back while his foot works the pedals during his powerful musical performances. It’s a WOW!

Newcomer. Vinchenz Dillardo, who says he is a Black Italian that loves to sing Sinatra music. He started off with an explanation of his heritage before singing his first tune, Summer Wind. Vinchenz has a unique personal stage style and fashion sense. When his engaging second Frank Sinatra number, Nice and Easy, came to an end Vinchenz signed off with “Bada Bing, Badda Boom!”

The attention moved back to the grand piano where Steven Rosato, a pharmacy student here in Las Vegas with no professional piano experience, played two beautiful piano solos. Steven started with his wonderful performance of Knock You Down. For his amazing finale, Steven Rosato played the intrumental version of Dead and Gone, from the album Paper Trail, by rapper T. I. featuring Justin Timberlake.

The performances by three of the lovely ladies that sang Monday night were really good starting with the terrific vocalist, Kat Ray (r) on the swinging jazzy tune, I Love Being Here With You.

Later on, newcomer to the open mic, Andrea E. (L) gave a fine performance of Killing Me Softly.

And, Thai Lewis did a great hot rendition of Orange Colored Sky. The best known version of this song was recorded in 1950 by Nat King Cole. The fabulous lyrics were written by Milten DeLugg and Willie Stein.

Comedian/singer/impressionist, Willie Asbury was back opening with the Barry White tune, Can’t Get Enough of Your Love. Willie fractured the crowd with his fantastic takes on American life and popular celebrities. Willie is a veteran performer who has appeared on HBO, Showtime at the Apollo and other televised comedy specials. Willie was only back in town 5 weeks when he landed his own show at the L.A. Comedy Club at the Four Queens in downtown Las Vegas. Catch Willie Asbury there every Friday night.

Skye brought up singer, Len InDelicato, but there was a short delay getting his track set up so the band sat in for Len’s very fine, smooth and easy rendition of the romantic Engelbert Humperdinck tune, After the Loving.

Miz Buffie Lucas, a longtime favorite at Kelly Clinton shows at the Bootlegger, was back on stage for her solo performance. Buffie did an amazing presentation of Just My Imagination, a song that was recorded by the Temptations and became a big hit during the super seventies. The fabulous Miz Buffie Lucas is a member of the Saints Unified Voice, a gospel choir directed by the celebrated singer Gladys Knight.

The phenomenal vocalist Lisa Gay and the awesome guitarist Tony Drake had musicians Mike Clark and Billy Adams behind them during their fabulous performance of Under Your Spell. Lisa Gay is an amazing vocalist who uses her voice like an instrument. She’s a master of Soul/R&B, Jazz and Pop music with a fantastic vocal range and incredible style. Lisa and her husband Tony met while they were both on tour with Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis, Jr.. Tony Drake has played and recorded with many of the top names in the music business including the Checkmates, Cher, Tina Turner, and a very long list of famous others. Most recently he toured with Barry White, Lou Rawls and Lisa Gay.

This Sunday, April 25, Kelly Clinton Productions presents Lisa Gay and the Gentlemen of Thrill at 8:30 pm in the Celebrity Spotlight at the Bootlegger Bistro. The Gentlemen are musical director Tony Drake on guitar, Reginald Johnson on keyboards, Terry Binn on bass and vocals and Shawn Elsbend on drums. ......Book your reservations now at 702-736-4939. You don’t want to miss this!!!

Leana Carter, known as Lace in the marvelous singing group Sylk, Satan and Lace, gave an astonishing performance of At Last, a tune considered by many to be one of the greatest torch songs ever written. Etta James recorded it in 1960 and it became her signature song. At Last was written by Mack Gordon and Harry Warren for the musical Orchestra Wives.
Leana’s mother, Breonte Porter (Sylk) was out in the crowd celebrating her birthday. In honor of Breonte’s special day, Skye sang her the Happy Birthday tune
The fantabulous “dream girls” group, Sylk, Satin and Lace will perform at Texas Station on May 15.

We are coming to the end of another great show with guest host, the one and only, Skye Dee Miles who will tell you that keeping the Cabaret rolling smoothly is not easy! Skye did a great job!!!
...........So here he comes, Sexy Manuel, AKA, Kevin Cordova, our fantastic DJ/special effects guy and singer in his own right. Kevin gave another great performance singing Lightening Crashes by the band Live.

Late night performer, Alex Boye` dropped by to show us some of his talent by delivering a dynamite performance of Let’s Stay Together by Al Green. Alex recently appeared in concert at the South Point Casino. Originally from London, England, Alex performed with the British boy band Awesome and opened for many big acts. Alex Boye` is a Pearl Award winner for several contemporary Gospel CDs and he is a member of the world renown Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

Last up to close out another great Cabaret show, J. T. Thompson gave a wonderful performance of The Leader of the Band, the song written and recorded by Dan Fogelberg as a tribute to his musician father.

J.T. gave Skye Dee Miles a big thank you for doing such a great job as guest host and her awesome performance!

Thanks go out to all Kelly Clinton’s A-Team members, J.T. Thompson, musical director Mike Clark, drummer, Billy Adams and of course, DJ Kevin Cordova.

Kelly Clinton will be back next Monday night!! Thanks to all the entertainers and guests who drop by each and every week for Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret!!

Please join us next Monday night, April 26, at the Bootlegger Bistro, Showtime 9 pm
Perform, Promote Your Gig, Dine In, Chill Out, Have a Blast!!!!
Make your dining reservations at 702-736-4939 Bootlegger Bistro, 7700 Las Vegas Blvd. South

More Pics

See You Monday Night!!!!!! Kelly Clinton

The Buzz: There’s No Business Like Show Business!

2010-04-16T22:17:00.000-07:00

It may be a tough way to make a living at times but boy can a career in show biz be a blast!!! Take it from Kelly Clinton who loves entertaining so much she frequently transforms herself into satirical characters just to keep her show fresh, funny and full of surprises. At her Open Mic Cabaret Monday night at the Bootlegger Bistro, Kelly opened her show as Gladys Flatball, a Las Vegas showgirl with the ‘Follies Brazzere’ since the 1950‘s. Gladys arrived in full costume and despite the fact she walked with a cane, gained a lot of weight and aged quite a bit, she still looked great!! For the most part that is ---there was a bit of a problem regarding her ‘drooping boobs’ that just didn’t want to stay put inside the costume during her hot number, Hey Big Spender. Funny stuff.

Gladys said, “I’m still on call for the Follies Brazzere’ but apparently nobody ever gets sick.” Then she added a cascade of one-liners including, “I was gonna wear my peek-a-boo blouse but everybody would peek and then boo!” What a terrific ‘Kelly Clinton kick-off’ to one more great Cabaret show!

Let’s get on with the show of entertainers who joined Kelly last Monday night. First up at the mic was that wonderful singer/entertainer Mark O’Toole who started off his spotlight show with Bandstand Boogie, the popular theme from Dick Clark’s American Bandstand, written by Barry Manilow. Following the hoppin and boppin tune, Mark gave a terrific performance of the Michael Buble` version of All of Me. There’s a lot of good stuff going on for Mark O’Toole. He’s appearing this month at the M Resort in the Ravello Room on Saturdays starting at 6:30 pm for his two hour show. Then next month he will be at the M two nights a week on Fridays and Saturdays. Yes!

By the way, that awesome singer and very dear friend, Mark Giovi was in Monday night but had to run early to perform in his starring role in Bite at the Stratosphere Hotel & Casino. Mark didn’t get a chance to sing for us ---as he has many other times--- due to his scheduled show performance. Everyone is looking forward to seeing Mark back at the Cabaret whenever he gets a chance to stop by again. (Mark is sitting with Marco of Mastroianni Fashions)

Next Kelly introduced a favorite Jazz/Blues stylist, Gayle Thompson Steele. Actually Gayle can sing any style and sound great. She was the lead vocalist for the Naval Academy Band for twenty years before she made the move to Vegas to join her brother, Las Vegas headliner Clint Holmes, in his show at Harrah’s. Gayle gave an outstanding performance of When I Fall In Love as she made her way throughout the audience in that up close and personal style everyone at the Bootlegger enjoys so much. The band was terrific with Mike Clark jazzin it up on the keys and Billy Adams keeping the beat on drums.

Kelly introduced Paul Stubblefield who came up to bring on another friend, singer, Artis Brown. Artis is originally from Detroit but moved here from Atlanta a few months ago.
For her first performance at Kelly’s Open Mic Cabaret, the petite lady with a big voice, Artis Brown gave a fine performance of Since I Fell for You, with the fabulous band behind her.

The next act was a surprise treat for the crowd. Nine-year old Gianni Cardinale may be young but he is well on his way to becoming a future star. Gianni stepped up to the mic with the confidence of a seasoned performer. Actually he is a seasoned performer as he has played the role of “Young Steve” in the Steve Wyrick Magic Show -- and Gianni is currently playing “Mini John” Lennon in the Beatles “Love” at the Mirage!! He is also in the current Station Casino “The Feast” commercial. Gianni Cardinale, a young boy with a very big future gave an incredible performance of the Elvis Presley tune, If I Can Dream.
The song was a very appropriate choice for Gianni who attends Dream Believers Acting School, a learning center that encourages young students to perform in front of a live audience. Gianni and other young performers get a chance to perform once a month at the Sunday early show at the Bootlegger Bistro.

The lovely and talented Kaci Machacyk was next up with her sizzling performance of that great disco tune Last Dance. The song was written by the late Paul Jabara and became a hit record for Donna Summer in 1978.

The hot young singer Kaci Machacyk is also an actress and the star host of Vegas 5W, a televised web broadcast focusing on Las Vegas’ lifestyle ‘off the Strip.’ Check out the show at http://www.vegas5w.com/

Next Kelly introduced celebrity entertainer and really awesome singer, Early Clover, a performer best known in Vegas as lead vocalist of Cornell Gunter’s Coasters. Early has worked with Kelly many times over the years ---most recently at the Stirling Club at Turnberry Towers and at corporate events. “There’s the soft side of Early, Kelly said, then there’s the……..” The crowd got to see both sides during Early’s beautiful performance of the soft and easy Nat King Cole number Unforgettable ---followed by the Early Clover ‘kicking butt’ side when he wowed the screaming crowd with his “unbelievable” killer performance of Try a Little Tenderness. .....Oh what a night!!!

The gorgeous singer Lauri Cook was up next with her fabulous vamp style performance of that hot tune Black Velvet, a song about Elvis Presley. Lauri was raised in Canada and it seems fitting that she chose to sing a hit tune written by Canadian musicians, David Tyson and Christopher Ward. Black Velvet was recorded by Canadian singer Alannah Myles in 1989 and hit number one on the Billboard Top 100 Charts in 1990. It reached number one on the Album Rock Tracks as well as number one in Canada.

Comedian Derrick J. Stroman was back Monday night delivering his funny jokes and anecdotes. Derrick is from New York and is currently working the L.A. comedy circuit. This was Derrick’s second appearance at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret.

Up next was singer/songwriter, George Dare. George writes music including popular jingles like the familiar Fletcher Jones Chevrolet commercial jingle. George has a wonderful voice and he gave a great performance of Walking in Memphis, the signature song of American singer-songwriter, Marc Cohn. Later in the show, George gave a powerful presentation of Bridge Over Troubled Water by Simon & Garfunkel.

Comedian/singer Willie Asbury was back starting off his spot with Can’t Get Enough of Your Love, the song written, recorded and produced by Barry White. This comic can sing, dance and bring on the laughter too. Willie introduced some more new material this Monday night starting with his impressions of ‘the ethnic changes’ in Las Vegas. Then he brought back some of the crowds favorite character impressions, Rodney Dangerfield and Richard Pryor plus his wonderful satire take on ethic cheerleaders.

Willie is a real comedy pro. He appeared in the Tropicana Comedy Stop for 12 years and now you can catch Willie Asbury at the Four Queens’ L.A. Comedy Club in Downtown Las Vegas on Friday nights starting 7:30 sharp.

Everyone has got to see the next performer and there’s no doubt you will be seeing him very soon in a big room tribute show. Brand new to Las Vegas and back this week for the second time, singer/entertainer/tribute artist Isaiah Mercado rocked out the crowd with his impeccable song and dance performance of Michael Jackson’s, Billie Jean. This time Isaiah added a bit of costume to enhance his show ---a sparkling black sequined jacket and a silver glove like Jackson wore for his acclaimed performance on Motown 25. The crowd wanted more so after a minute or so of an A cappella version of Ben the track was set for his outstanding second number, Human Nature. At 24 years old, Isaiah Mercado is an incredible performer.
Tribute artist/singer/songwriter, Elisa Furr was so impressed she took some video and got together with Isaiah after his act to talk shop.

Jacqueline was back this Monday to perform as Grandma Taylor, a dear character who recited rather than sang Jacqueline’s original recorded ballad, Snow. Jacqueline has written and recorded many ballads during her career.

Her Grandma Taylor character was brought to life with the story of Snow and Jacqueline’s amazing flair for creating costume ensembles.

That outstanding Jazz stylist Kitty Montgomery was at the mic with her latest original Jazz arrangement of Summertime, a song first composed as an aria by George Gershwin for the 1935 opera Porgy and Bess. The song soon became a Jazz standard and has been recorded by many well-known artists. Kitty gave another wonderful performance this Monday night.

Kitty Montgomery will be on tour in the Boca Raton area of Florida in the upcoming weeks before heading to Chicago where she will perform in a major Jazz show.

R&B singer Andrey SeVille was back in town this week to rock us out on Al Green’s Let’s Stay Together.
The tall Texan with plenty of soul did a super performance of the great R&B classic with the fabulous band backing him all the way.

Andrey SeVille will appear at Jerry’s Nugget on May 7 ---the date falls on Andrey’s birthday! Have a good one!!!

That awesome singer/songwriter/musician, Paul Stubblefield was back on stage ---this time to perform a brand new original he wrote titled, I See Your Face. The song lyrics were so new Paul had the words scrawled on the paper he held while doing a terrific presentation of his own song.
So what was it that inspired Paul to write this tune?....The inquiring mind (Kelly) wanted to know.
As the story goes, Paul was walking with his dog Drummer on Pacific Beach in San Diego when he saw a lovely girl along the way who was walking with her dog. With that momentary encounter still vivid in his dreams, Paul’s song I See Your Face came to life. The music and lyrics are beautiful and no one can sing his song better than the artist himself, Paul Stubblefield.

Michael Cagle is back in town after a couple of weeks of vacationing with family up north. According to the fans, 'Michael gave one of his best performances ever' Monday night when he sang Somewhere from the musical West Side Story. “That was the bomb” one fan shouted out. Truly, it was a tremendous presentation by the powerful singer. Michael has a lot on his plate right now working with World Movement Records and considering some very exciting offers that have come his way recently.

Hard work pays off and we all know how hard Michael works at his career so it seems the time is right for Michael Cagle to shine. For right now, he wanted to take a few moments to express his praise for the outstanding performer and host of evening. Michael said he has worked with and has seen many talented performers ---but none more talented than Kelly Clinton ---“You are by far the most talented entertainer I have ever seen!” ....Nice!

The beautiful and talented singer, Andrea Li returned to the open mic for her second time ever. Andrea blew the crowd away last week with her fabulous opera voice and she did it again this Monday night with her beautiful and mesmerizing performance of All I Ask of You from the musical Phantom of the Opera. Andrea Li is a phenomenal talent!

Veteran performer Ron Star, the singer/musician who knocked us out about a month ago when he surprised us with a spectacular drum solo, was back at the mic this week. This time Ron Star chose to dedicate his song to the guys in the Elvis Presley band that he got to know years ago. The story of the hang time Ron spent with the band is a precious memory he shared with the audience just before his fabulous performance of Presley’s song, I Can't Help Falling In Love With You, .......Good show!!

Kelly introduced “Sexy Manuel” a guy best known as Kevin Cordova, our DJ/Special Effects guy and member of Kelly’s A-Team.

Kevin chose a very moving song about a man on the road and his response to his family that misses him. No one could do more justice to this poetic tune about how a guy feels about his family than Kevin Cordova. His powerful performance of I’m Already There, by American country music band Lonestar, proved once again that Kevin’s the man!

Before closing the show Kelly thanked all of her A-Team members including her musical director and band leader, Mike Clark, the spectacular drummer, Billy Adams, Bootlegger host, J.T. Thompson and of course, DJ/All round special effects guy, Kevin Cordova. Let’s hear it for the A-Team leader and phenomenal entertainer, Kelly Clinton for bringing us another fabulous Monday Night Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro.

Thanks to all the entertainers, our friends and fans for joining us on Monday nights at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro. LUV YAH!

Kelly Clinton will be in North Carolina next Monday with her husband, Clint Holmes, for the final performance week of Clint’s play, My Own Song.

The fabulous entertainer and
star of Menopause the Musical, Skye Dee Miles will be guest host next Monday night, April 19.

Join Us for the Blast!!!!!

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Come on Down!!!!!! Perform, Promote Your Gig, Dine In, Chill Out...Have a Blast!!! Reservations: 702-736-4939

The Buzz: Kelly Clinton & All That Talent!!!!

2010-04-10T19:19:00.000-07:00

The Bootlegger was packed when Kelly Clinton opened her Monday night Cabaret. Kelly was right on when she welcomed everyone to her open mic show, “Where talented people gather.” The singer/comedienne and very talented all-around-entertainer, Kelly Clinton started the night off with a tune called Simple Song, co-written by her husband, headliner Clint Holmes and brilliant musician, Davy Nathan. It’s a fun song that gets the audience to join right in as part of the show ---nobody connects with the crowd better than Kelly Clinton!

In addition to her regular schedule of performances, Kelly Clinton put together a special presentation for her appearance as featured artist at the Western Region Conference of the American Music Therapy Association, Inc., on April 8, at Alexis Park. She wowed the audience when she kicked off the entire event with her outstanding show ---so much so, they’d like Kelly to perform at their national conference. Way to go, Kelly!!!

Wow! Headliner Jimmy Hopper was the first open mic performer of the evening. Jimmy, a fantastic entertainer/singer/musician, played the grand piano and sang Billy Joel‘s, She’s Always a Woman to Me. Jimmy Hopper creates a lot of excitement whenever he performs so the crowd wasn’t about to let him off the stage without a second number. The super-talented Jimmy chose a soft ballad using his powerful range during his outstanding performance of The Music of the Night, from Phantom of the Opera. The crowd roared as they gave this phenomenal entertainer a standing ovation!

If you haven’t seen Jimmy’s show --- this dynamic and versatile showman performs rock, classical, Broadway and opera music like nobody else--- do catch him next time he headlines in Vegas. Jimmy Hopper is currently appearing four nights a week in Newport Beach, California. Catch him at The Ritz Garden Restaurant and/or the Palm Terrace/Island Hotel. Jimmy will head for the East Coast next month. He’ll be in Atlantic City at Harrah’s on May 6 and the House of Blues on May 7. http://www.jimmyhopper.com/

Kelly Clinton did a little dance routine (she is so loose!) before bringing on powerful singer Patty Powers and her partner, musician David Marinelli. This was the couple’s second performance at Kelly’s Open Mic Cabaret since they moved to Las Vegas about two months ago. Patty belted out the blues during her hot rendition of that great standard Stormy Monday. David accompanied her on piano with Kelly’s awesome band behind them. Kelly joined them on stage saying ‘that made me feel sooo good’ ---her clever cue to start their encore number.

David really hit those keys while Patty sang during their rockin’ performance of the James Brown tune, I Feel Good.

Oh, Mama Niecy was here! That meant plenty of hot blues and lots of soul on Monday night ---or any other night this incredible entertainer takes to the stage. Mama and the band took right off with her awesome rendition of the Shuffle Blues. A true story teller and animated songstress, Mama Niecy uses everything ---from her spoken words to her hands to her facial expressions to her one-on-one play with the audience--- to bring her music to life. For her second number, she tore the house down with her astonishing performance of At Last, a popular song recorded by such greats as Etta James, Aretha Franklin, Celine Dion and many others. Mama Niecy’s show wound up with the crowd on their feet giving her a standing ovation. Oh Mama, you’re so fine!

Kelly introduced the next singer, Lucie Knight, as ‘One who sings like an angel’ a beautiful woman who has been through a tough year “But now’s she back!” With family in the audience, Lucie said this was such a special evening for her as she recalled some of today’s popular Vegas artists she’d run into back some 30 years ago when she lived in upstate New York, attended the Eastman School of Music and sang at open mic clubs like this one. Lucie couldn’t be happier to present her fabulous performance of Memories...... We love Lucie!

All types of entertainers ---from veterans to the very young--- come to perform at Kelly’s Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro. So this Monday night Kelly welcomed the family act, Goodwater, to the stage. Big brother Michael Darby, age 34, and his two 9 year-old siblings, brother Nicholas Kaehler and sister, Cybelle Kaehler, (two of the Kaehlar triplets) performed one of their original songs, Do What’s Right. Cybelle delighted the crowd with her lovely voice while Michael played piano, accompanied by percussion musician Nicholas. Mom was beaming as she sat in the audience watching the show with her other 9 year-old daughter.

Hilarious comedian/singer, Willie Asbury was back with his groovy dance moves and song style when he opened with the Barry White tune, You’re the First, the Last. The talented comedian impressionist did an amazing job with his parody impersonations of “American Presidents” Barack Obama, Bill Clinton and “Rappin” Ronald Reagan. Really funny stuff! More new material followed with Willie’s take on getting stopped by the police in major cities across America. He wound up his show with a Michael Jackson song and dance routine that amazed the crowd. (Willie’s a big guy) Willie Asbury is a seasoned entertainer who has performed on major television comedy specials and at multitudes of venues during his twenty-year career,
Willie’s newest spot is at the Four Queens in Downtown Las Vegas on Friday nights at 7:30 sharp. The weekly gig is a streaming live comedy web cast with the potential of becoming a ‘live from Las Vegas’ variety show. For free tickets and more information go to http://www.streamingliveinlasvegas.com/.

Lisa Gay and Tony Drake arrived with the Gentlemen of Thrill, jazz pianist, Marcas Johnson, and newcomer to the open mic cabaret, bass player/singer, Stanley Butler. Lisa and Tony always bring something new to the stage whenever they perform in Kelly’s show. With the awesome Mike Clark and Billy Adams playing with the four member group, Lisa Gay and Thrill got their show off to a great start with Lisa’s hot performance of Boogie Oogie Oogie, a disco number recorded in 1978 by A Taste of Honey. As always Lisa was terrific on vocals ----what a great voice and style she has ---and oh those moves! The fabulous guitarist, Tony Drake led the “Gentleman” band. Each one of the incredible musicians took a spotlight solo. It was a marvelous show of extraordinary talent. On the second number, Lisa and Tony featured awesome singer/musician, Stanley Butler, who ‘rocked’ the house on a tune called “Rock Me Baby.” ………
Lisa Gay, Tony Drake and the Gentlemen of Thrill are headlining at Kelly Clinton’s Celebrity Spotlight on Sunday, April 25, at the Bootlegger Italian Bistro. Showtime 8:30 pm. Get your reservations now at 702-736-4939.

Kelly introduced musician extraordinaire, Luis Sebastian, who played a vibrant medley of Sinatra tunes including, In Other Words, I’ve Got You Under My Skin and Night and Day. The youthful, 28 year-old pianist is originally from Argentina but has lived in Las Vegas for 20 years. Sebastian performs at the Mandalay Bay. He's played there for nearly 10 years at corporate events, conventions, weddings and other special events. The open mic audience loves Sebastian. There’s high hope he will make it to the big time!!

When Kelly brought out veteran entertainer Gilly Brady, hearing and watching this man sing was an awesome experience ---much like enjoying a 'live' flashback to 'vintage Vegas.' Those were the days when Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., the rest of The Rat Pack and other headliners and show people, would jam together after hours in the clubs and lounges around town. Gilly gave his performance in a style reminiscent of those good old days with his rendition of It’s Almost Like Being in Love. Although Gilly changed careers long ago to become a casino host, he was so at ease stepping up to the mic and singing with the band it was as though the stage has always been his true 'home sweet home.' For his second number Gilly sang the soft and pretty tune, Just in Time, probably best known as a Tony Bennett hit in 1956. Gilly’s still got it!

As the night was getting late, Andrea Li, the next performer took the crowd by surprise with her unbelievable presentation of Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again from the musical, Phantom of the Opera. The audience was so taken by this beautiful lady’s extraordinary voice they wanted more! Andrea originates from China but came to Las Vegas via Chicago. She looked lovely dressed in traditional Chinese fashion and excelled in her encore performance of a second piece from Phantom of the Opera, All I Ask of You. This was her first appearance at Kelly’s Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret. The hope is Andrea Li will be back soon!!!!

Kelly followed Andrea’s lead holding a long operatic note with DJ/Kevin Cordova nearby posed to catch her as she did her comedic slapstick fall. Kevin always misses the catch but he’s right there on the pick up.

Back on her feet, Kelly was ready to perform PMS Blues, the popular original she wrote “back in the 1900’s.” The band was ready and at her special request, rocking guitarist, Tony Drake sat in. The animated antics of this powerful singer doing “her own thing” always gets the men chuckling and the women screaming with laughter. Kelly was amazing!!!! Tony Drake, along with musical director, Mike Clark and that terrific drummer, Billy Adams, were right there for her.

You may have seen the next performer in last summer’s production of Once On This Island at Spring Mountain Ranch ---or maybe right here at Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret a time or two. If so, then you already know what a wonderful singer/theatrical performer Rodney Arnett is. On Monday night, the talented Rodney used his fantastic vocal skills to present an amazing rendition of My Funny Valentine. His second number, Nature Boy , was a great presentation of a song truly enhanced by Rodney’s vocal instrumentation. Rodney Arnett is looking forward to a really bright future that includes performing in the New York Harlem Production tour of the great musical, Porgy and Bess. To add to his credits, Rodney has a Masters in Voice from UNLV and is a member of the Roger Wagner Chorale, a choir “known as America’s premier vocal ensemble…… with an enviable international reputation.” Wow!!

Winding up another great evening of entertainment, DJ/special effects guy and powerful singer, Kevin Cordova (left)stepped up to give his great performance of Just Once, by James Ingram.

Following Kevin was comedian, Derrick J. Stroman (right) of Las Vegas

Locals……Derrick has appeared all over the LA comedy circuit and he gave an entertaining open mic performance Monday night.

Singer and Bootlegger host, J.T. Thompson did a fantastic presentation of the beautiful ballad, Ireland, co-written and recorded by Garth Brooks.

Following J.T. and last up at the mic was gentleman singer, Tommy Lombardi. Tommy gave a beautiful performance of the great standard, Summer Wind, a song recorded by Frank Sinatra back in the 1960’s.

The one and only, Kelly Clinton joined her awesome "A-team" ---J.T. Thompson, Mike Clark, Billy Adams and Kevin Cordova--- on stage to thank them once more for a great job. And of course, she sent out a big thank you to the crowd for sticking around to see all the performers.

And so another great evening of outstanding entertainment came to a close ---but there will be a lot more fabulous talent next Monday night, April 12, at Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret at the Bootlegger Bistro on the South Strip. Showtime: 9 pm. Get your dining reservations at 702-736-4939.

Please Join Us!
Perform, promote your gig, dine in, chill out---Have A Blast!!!
http://www.kellyclinton.com/

A few more pics: 4-5-2010

WHAT A BLAST!!!!!!!!

The Buzz: Captain Kelly & The Entertainment Journey

2010-04-04T06:46:00.000-07:00

The vivacious and talented Kelly Clinton launched another of her fantastic Open Mic Cabaret shows starting with her own high energy performance of, Joy to the World. Kelly’s incomparable up close and personal performance style ---the immediate contact she makes with the crowd ---and her choice of opening music, demonstrates this artist’s consistent ability to capture and take the audience right up on stage with her.

Not to fail to mention her willingness to share the spotlight with the band ---and other entertainers like Kaci Machacyk, Kaci's dad, Tommy Vinci and Lannie Counts who jumped in on backup when Kelly invited them to come up during her opening number. With Kelly Clinton at the helm, the “joyful” pace was set once again for Monday night’s ‘entertainment journey’ at the Bootlegger Bistro.

The wonderful singer, Lannie Counts was first up at the mic performing the Stevie Wonder number, Knocks Me Off from the album, Songs in the Key of Life. Lannie sang in a soft and smooth style then moved up to his strong and powerful vocal range to close the number. He changed the pace with his second song, a swinging version of Fly Me To the Moon. Musical director Mike Clark on the keys and renown guitarist Tony Drake both rocked the bridge. Lannie was terrific. Yes Lannie, do “sing forever more!

Next up was the popular singer and the woman behind Diva Las Vegas Productions, Michelle Johnson, who chose to perform a number she had never sung before . With the fabulous band behind her, Michelle gave a really outstanding presentation of It Might Be You, written by Dave Grusin with lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman. The song was performed by singer/songwriter Stephen Bishop in the 1982 movie Tootsie. As always, the Diva Michelle Johnson blew us away with her first-time performance of this beautiful song.

The charismatic singer Mark O’Toole joined the Cabaret for his first time Monday night. Mark appeared at the Bootlegger a few weeks back at Kelly Clinton’s Sunday Night Celebrity Spotlight. He not only filled the house at that show, he brought along his special guest of the evening, actress Sally Struthers. Mark is a wonderful singer ---and a good looking guy who had the ladies swooning on Monday night with his terrific performance of Ray Charles’ You Don’t Know Me. Mark O’Toole will be appearing weekly in the Ravello Lounge at the M Resort Henderson starting April 17.

Kelly had a lot of fun introducing birthday girl Jessica and presenting opera star, Geena Mattox (Phantom of the Opera) to deliver the Happy Birthday song. Geena gave a wonderful presentation of the traditional number that blew Jessica and the entire audience away!!! Just fabulous!!

Kelly welcomed back, N Demand, the phenomenal A cappela Doo Wop group for their second performance at her Open Mic Cabaret. The fabulous singers gave us a couple of memorable numbers from the Doo Wop days including a real crowd pleaser Life Could Be a Dream (Sh Boom, Sh Boom). The 1954 recording by the Crew Cuts was #1 on the Billboard charts for 9 weeks that year. The four members of the group N Demand are Gerald Bell, David Franklin, Lewis Clark and E.C. Adams. The quartet got together about a year ago. You can catch their show in the Napoleon Room at the Paris on Fridays and Saturdays from 6 pm - 8:30 pm.

Before bringing up the next performer, Kelly mentioned that while she was in North Carolina with her husband Clint Holmes preparing for his play that opens April 3, her guest host was none other than the star of Menopause the Musical, Skye Dee Miles. The one and only Skye Dee Miles was the next performer of course. Skye was looking great in a curly blond wig and the fabulous faux eyelashes she wore for her performance in a show called She-nanigans that took place earlier in the evening.
Oh can this lady sing!! Skye gave an exciting hot, hot, presentation of that fabulous blues number Stormy Monday. Kevin Lyon rocked out on guitar. Skye finished with a big ending and the crowd jumped to their feet to give her a well deserved standing ovation!!

You never know who might be watching the show. This week someone spotted a television star in the crowd that many will know. Kelly introduced Billy Hufsey, the actor who played “Christopher” in the TV show Fame and the character "Emilio Ramirez" on Days of Our Lives. Besides being talented, the guy is good looking as Kelly noted with “Hmmm, Billy Hufsey” then in a Mae West style pose she added “ Hey, I might be married but I’m not dead!” …….Who could blame her!!

That young, flaming redhead, Kaci Machacyk was next on stage accompanied by the band with her dad, Tommy Vinci (Machacyk) on the drums. The talented young singer and host of Vegas 5W, gave a powerful performance belting out the Beatles song Oh Darling, composed by Paul McCartney and recorded on the album, Abbey Road. …..Check out the episode, Music on the Menu , where Kaci features Kelly’s Open Mic Cabaret and the Bootlegger Bistro at http://www.vegas5w.com/
.

Kelly introduced a couple of very popular “chick” singers who were out in the audience just watching the show. The fabulous singer Gayle Thompson Steele, who happens to be Kelly’s sister-in-law , was sitting this night out with a sore throat. Elisa Furr, the remarkable singer best known for her tribute to Celine Dion, was also in the crowd but had to run to another gig. Maybe next week ladies???

Next up, one of the nicest guys in town, the super-talented Nicholas Brooks stepped on stage to give a great performance of that old jazz standard Blame It On My Youth. The song was written by Oscar Levant and Edward Heyman in 1934. Frank Sinatra recorded it for his 1957 album, Close to You. Speaking of Sinatra, Nicholas Brooks is a cast member in the Rat Pack Show where he pays tribute to Sammy Davis, Jr. Catch Nicholas and the other tribute artists at the 5 pm show at the Sahara Hotel.

The very hot ‘dream girls’ act called Sylk, Satan & Lace took to the stage looking very chic in their stunning dresses and fantabulous footwear. And ---oh yes, they sure can sing!! Following their terrific performance of Journey’s, Don’t Stop Believin’ the crowd roared for more. For their next number, the wonderful trio sang the Motown hit by the Supremes, Come See About Me, another crowd pleaser. The three gals in the group are Breonte Porter (Sylk), her daughter, Leana Carter (Lace) and Elyse Branch (Satin). Sylk, Satin & Lace will be headlining at Kelly’s Celebrity Spotlight at the Bootlegger in a few weeks. Dennis Bono immediately invited the girls to be on his radio show just prior to their Spotlight appearance.

Speaking of Dennis Bono, he and his wife, former Nevada Lt. Governor and Bootlegger Bistro owner, Lorraine Hunt Bono, were in the audience Monday night enjoying the show with the rest of the crowd. Kelly announced The Dennis Bono Show is celebrating its tenth year on the radio in Nevada and 11 western states. The really big news was, the show will now be heard seven times a week.---and beginning April 3, three times a week on Stay Tuned America, the classic entertainment superstation that airs around the world.

The lovely singer, Justina Lee Black brought a group
of friends to see her terrific performance of Nowhere to Go.
Justina’s CD release, New Start, produced by Bennie Caruso of Detroit, will be out this summer. Good luck Justina.

The very funny comedian/singer, Willie Asbury was back this week. Willie is a talented veteran performer who opened with a song then moved into his comedic impressions where he nailed everyone of his favorites of the boxing world. This Monday night Willie added his killer impersonation series of “ethnic cheerleaders.” Willie has appeared on HBO and network comedy shows and at the Tropicana Comedy Spot . He was scheduled to appear at the Four Queens in Downtown Las Vegas on Wednesday night.

The super-talented husband and wife team, songstress Lisa Gay and master guitarist, Tony Drake, were back Monday night for another awesome performance. This time the gifted couple brought in LA jazz pianist, Marcas Johnson to add his style to the band. Jazz and R&B artist Lisa sent out her awesome vocal riffs along with some ultra hot moves on You Are the Sunshine of My Life by Stevie Wonder. Tony led the band and took his spot playing incredible guitar.

Next Lisa reintroduced Marcas Johnson as 'one of the most sought after musicians in LA and a protégée of the great jazz pianist and composer, Eric Reed. Their next number featured the gifted artist, Marcas, performing another Stevie Wonder number, Creepin’.
What a great show by Lisa & Tony with Marcas and the band.!

To introduce the next act, Kelly was joined by singer extraordinaire Geena Mattox who shared a very heartwarming personal life story when she introduced the daughter she hadn’t seen since she was two weeks old ---that was 19 years ago when Geena gave her up for adoption. It really astounded the crowd to see that the beautiful and talented singer/songwriter/musician, Amy Kuckelman ---despite a lifetime apart, was following in her biological mother’s musical footsteps.
Chicago girl Amy gave a great performance at the piano where she sang and played her first number. Then she took center stage where she played acoustic guitar and sang the second of her two original mellow rock tunes. Amy’s wonderful performance and the reunited story that brought her to the open mic was summed up by many in the crowd with a “Wow, this is so amazing.”

Next, Kelly called out to the crowd saying she needed a "Sonny" for her number. She chose one of her big fans, Bill Bane, who once on stage appeared to really enjoy the moment during their off the cuff performance of Sonny and Cher’s, I Got You Babe.

Phenomenal jazz artist Vernell Brown, Jr. was back this week accompanied by the amazing conga player Doc T, a really extraordinary drummer, Donell Baldwin and the fabulous Mike Clark on keys.

The magnificent group performed

“13 Letters” a wonderful jazz piece that Vernell recorded on an album of the same title on the Verlita Records label. Vernell’s recording was inspired by such jazz greats as Thelonious Monk, Miles Davis and John Coltrane. Watching the performance and listening to the divine sound of modern jazz by this outstanding group of musicians is truly a pleasurable experience. You can catch them at the Cottage Café at 4647 Paradise Road on Tuesday nights --- and at the Red Label Lounge, 332 W. Sahara just east of the Strip on Saturday, April 10.

Next up was the lovely singer Nesa Bates, an old friend but a newcomer to the Open Mic Cabaret. Nesa did a terrific rendition of That’s What You Get, an alternative rock tune that was a hit single for the Australia band Paramore in 2008.

Another newcomer, the beautiful Melissa Cardella, is a singer who is also the daughter of the outrageously funny comedienne, the late Beverly “Pudgy” Wines. Melissa gave a beautiful performance of Pat Benatar’s, Love is a Battlefield.

The awesome pop pianists', Luis Sebastian played yet another powerful music medley this Monday night. Sebastian, as he prefers to be called, never went to music academies for piano training but he had at least four private piano instructors over a period of time starting when he was very young and lots of help from his parents. One of his fans on Monday night, Jonathan Bollas, was overhead urging Sebastion to enter the annual Liberace competion, telling him he was sure to win!! Sounds like a good idea!

Nicholas Brooks brought a young man from Chicago, Isaiah Mercado to Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret to give his first performance in Las Vegas. The very talented 24 year-old singer just moved to Las Vegas two weeks ago. Isaiah was formally trained in voice and at the age of 12 he found out who Michael Jackson was and began imitating the super star. Isaiah has been singing professionally for just 2 years. His remarkable dance moves and resemblance to the youthful Michael added to his outstanding performance of Jackson’s, Human Nature. It won’t be long before this entertainer is booked!!!

Coming to the end of another exciting Cabaret show, Kelly introduced our own J.T. Thompson who had a cousin in the audience from his home state of Alaska. J.T. did a terrific performance of that wonderful song, Walking in Memphis, the signature song of singer/songwriter, Marc Cohn.

To wind up the night, our DJ/special effects guy and powerful singer, the versatile Kevin Cordova gave a commanding rendition of Billy Joel’s, New York State of Mind.

Thanks to the band led by the awesome Mike Clark on keys, the great Billy Adams on drums and the rockin’ Kevin Lyon on guitar. They always do an outstanding job for each and every singer they play for on Monday nights. Special thanks to the phenomenal guitarist Tony Drake for sitting in most of the night.

By the way, Tony Drake will soon be retiring one of his favorite guitars, the one (photo above) signed by famed jazz guitarist George Benson some years back when Tony was on tour with him and Lou Rawls. With the autograph starting to wear, Tony would like to preserve his treasured instrument while the famed signature is still very legible.
Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret, March 29, 2010, at the Bootlegger Bistro.

Come Join Us Every Monday Night
Kelly Clinton's Open Mic Cabaret
Come to perform, promote your gig, bring your friends,
dine in, chill out, HAVE A BLAST!!!
Bootlegger Italian Bistro
7700 Las Vegas Blvd South

Dining room reservations: 702-736-4939