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ETA Gabe Phoenix Returns Home a Winner
ETA Gabe Phoenix of Karragarra Island. Photo Credit: Linda Muller, www.redlandcitybulletin.com.au.
Elvis Tribute Artist, Gabe Phoenix, of Karragarra Island, triumphantly returned to his homeland of Australia after winning first place in the Gospel Pro Division competition in the 2019 Lake George, NY, Elvis Festival. The competition, one of the largest Elvis tribute artist competitions in the world, is comprised of five days of Elvis Presley related festivities that includes performances on cruises on the lake, a classic car parade and Elvis themed parties. It attracts tribute artists from around the world. Gabe, who performed the gospel song “Stand By Me”, said he believed the win was about establishing an audience connection.
"It was a truly exhilarating experience, and, to be honest, a surprising outcome. While I had never been to lake George, New York, before, there was still a familiar sense of camaraderie—a mutual bond with the audience," he said. "They were there for the same reason. We had found ourselves on the other side of the globe and that was because of Elvis Presley whom I believe is the greatest entertainer who ever breathed. It was both humbling and thrilling at the same time—a true honour in every sense."
Gabe has been working as a tribute artist locally, interstate, and overseas for many years. He is currently rehearsing an Elvis gospel inspired show that he plans on performing in Australia in coming months. He will also be competing in the Ultimate Elvis Competition at Viva Surfers Paradise Festival, July 12 to 21.
"In the end, a competition is really about pushing yourself to be the best you can be. Not to be Elvis, but rather be better than your best. It's about paying homage and it's about making a connection," he said. "There is only one Elvis. If you can be respectful and gain the respect of others via music, then you have done your job. Winning is not about being the best.; It's about doing your best at what Elvis did best, and that is to entertain and connect with an audience."
Article source: www.redlandcitybulletin.com.au, JUNE 24 2019. Credited to: Linda Muller, with edits by C. MacArthur.
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