The Early Years: “The Flash”
It wasn’t his true dream to become an ETA but as fate would have it, it happened. Shon's profession is an Animal Control Officer and has been for 8 years. His love for animals and caring go hand in hand, but his love for Elvis and the music he sings is stronger. From reliving the early 50's, 60's and 70's, his shows are filled with excitement and enjoys fan, family and peer support. His energetic ability, hip shaking moves can knock a crowd to the floor in amazement and so he was dubbed “The Canadian Flash” Shon continued to entertain and enter and win contests, all with a burning passion - always keeping a love and respect for the man to whom he pays tribute! He is well received wherever he performs, not only as a fine entertainer, but as a very kind and loving individual.
Collingwood 2018: A Tribute to an Artist
One long-time Elvis Presley Tribute Artist was honoured among his peers at this year’s Collingwood Elvis Festival opening ceremonies.
Shon Carroll was presented with the Paco Danesi award, which is reserved for a tribute artist who shows generosity and embodies the giving spirit many say flowed through Presley.
Carroll was shocked as he went on stage for what he thought was an interview to find Mayor Sandra Cooper holding the award and congratulating him. The crowd gathered on Hurontario Street cheered.
“It’s unbelievable,” said Carroll. “I can’t describe what I feel. I’m very overwhelmed with joy and I’m truly honoured.”
Paul “Paco” Danesi was a musician (bass player) who formed a trio called the Casino Brothers Band in 1999. The band often played backup for Elvis Tribute Artists including at the Collingwood Elvis Festival.
Danesi died in 2010. He is remembered for his passion for music and commitment to excellence. According to Collingwood festival organizers, Danesi, who was the founder of the Casino Brothers Band, which started in 1999 as a backup band for ETAs, liked and respected the tribute artists and always gave 100 per cent for their performance. The Collingwood Elvis Festival established the award in his name and each year, the festival organizers present it to a tribute artist who embodies not only his passion for music, but his generosity.
Carroll first started competing as a tribute artist in 1996 and won the pro early years division in Collingwood in 2004. Since then he’s been performing strictly in showcases and returns to Collingwood each year for the festival. He’s from Kitchener/Waterloo.
He and Danesi were friends, and both shared a stage together in Collingwood more than once.
“As time goes on, people won’t know him,” said Carroll. “I was fortunate to know him. He was a friend.”
Carroll said he’s always loved Elvis Presley’s music, and in particular his singing voice.
“I thought, if there’s something going on – a festival about Elvis – I have to be a part of it,” said Carroll.
His favourite Elvis song is “Return to Sender”.
“The way he performed it in “Girls, Girls, Girls”, was so smooth, so suave and sophisticated. He was really cool,” said Carroll.
Photos
Happy birthday, Shon! May life always give you reasons to dance. Best wishes from everyone at SIDEBURNS Magazine. Carolyn MacArthur, Editor.
“A Tribute to an Artist” is credited to Erkia Engels, with edits by Carolyn MacArthur. “The Flash” is credited to Lady Luck Music. Photos, except where noted, are credited to SIDEBURNS Magazine.