Its been a long time baby. The silent shock of the audience was deafening as Darren stood on a Hamilton stage and announced to a full house that he would be continuing his career on US soil. He thanked his fans; friends, family and above all his mom for helping him make all his dreams come true. One could barely make out in the dark room the shadow of his mother standing silently in the sidelines. Walking proud and regal, his mother headed to the stage with a beautiful bouquet of flowers, she reached the stage and lovingly handed her son the final touch to a surprising day. Im sure there was not a person in the crowd that could contain at least a single tear for witnessing such a proud moment.   Reaching down to hug the women that had helped him to achieve his goals, it was all he could do to fight back tears himself, and became a noticeably futile attempt. When the rhythm of Unchained Melody began to pour through the speakers, the once dry eyes of the audience would soon surrender and become filled with glistening dampness once again. It wasnt that we were just sad to see him go, although it was surely a reckoning force- it was watching this young man who would perform 4 hour shows and drink gallons of Gatorade. To see him over the years working his way towards a dream, and then to watch as his dreams were about to be fulfilled- it was like watching your very own child spread his wings and leave the safety of your nest. It was a proud moment for all of us. A short-term contract that would see how he would do in the Vegas scene, was quickly renewed when the time was up, they loved him, the people loved him and Vegas would now cradle him in its glittering circle... The three months would quickly turn into a few years I guess we all knew he would make it, but the impact of his departure was imminent it was as if we had all suffered a tragic loss It surely was a loss to us, but to the bright lights of Vegas- he was soon to be a billboard headliner for America Superstars. Darren had finally hit the big time!   I go into this interview with many questions, mainly focusing on what has been happening in his world over the past few years. Darrens answers are honest, humorous and true to form; straightforward and with a no-bull attitude. --------------------------------------------- Darren, can you fill everyone in about who Darren Lee is, and what hes all about? I've been a professional Elvis Tribute Artist for 14 years. In 1997 I won the world Elvis competition, the first Canadian to do so. I started entertaining when I was 10 years old. A catholic nun taught me how to play guitar and sing (-a few years ago.) I have a younger brother Robin Kelly who is also a professional tribute artist, a very good one may I add. I joined the Elvis Elvis Elvis show in 1988 and a year later I formed my own show- Rock n Roll Heaven. I am currently starring in the American Superstars show, a show Ive been a part of for 2 years in Las Vegas. Are there long-term plans at this stage to remain part of the American Superstars show? At this moment Im still in the show, but I am looking to eventually leave the show. I want to join the convention world, and tour some places Ive never been to before- like England, Japan, and Germany Ive also been doing Elvis weddings in Las Vegas and I like the freedom that they bring, also I miss Canadian audiences and Id like to perform back home someday soon. How long did it take and how many tries, before you finally became a part of the bright lights of Vegas? I never thought I would ever get here, not even winning the contest helped- it was finally being very persistent that worked! Being that there are so many Elvis Tribute Artists around, did you think being a Canadian would hamper your future of getting into the Las Vegas scene? We tried after I won to bring the Temptations from the show to Vancouver to do shows with, but to no avail So thats how we heard about the shows producer, Donny Moore. We hassled Donny for 3 years, until finally in 2000 they were looking for an Elvis and I suggested that I fly down if they would give me an audition. (Something that doesnt happen- believe me!) For my audition I jumped on tables- you know my usual show, and I was hired! Since then Ive been banned from tables!!! You were voted by the Images of Elvis Contest in Memphis, as the #1 Elvis Tribute Artist in the world during 1997, - what kind of impact did that have on your career? At the time in Canada my price went up and it looks great on a poster to someone whos coming to your shows, rather then just, Theres an Elvis Impersonator in town tonight. But it didnt really affect getting me to Vegas at all. You were the only Canadian at that time to have ever won that contest, do you feel that you are an inspiration to other Canadian Tribute Artists the if you can do it, so can I type of inspiration? I hope so- in Vegas theres only 2 major show rooms that have an Elvis, our show and Legends, and both Elvis are Canadian. IF it inspires Canadian Tribute Artists-great! Without inspiration from others, I wouldnt have made it. I know it inspired Robin and eventually he will win in Memphis, and appear in Vegas, probably in half the time it took me- the door is open fellas! What do you think about contests in general? I hate them. After I didnt even make it into the finals in Collingwood I didnt plan on entering in Memphis. I finally entered the contest for the fans, and I couldnt have cared less about what the judges thought, my show was for my friends- and I won, Who knew? Your younger brother Robin has taken to the stage and is being welcomed far and wide. Do you think that people are still expecting him to sound and be like you? Or is it that he has finally thrown off the Darren image and is being accepted because of his own personal talent? It sucks that hes being compared to me, but he knew going into this field that he would get it. But hes proven himself! Hes a lot better than I was when I started. I always tell people that it took me 7 years to be as good as he is after 1 year! I know if he wins in Memphis and gets to Vegas, people will say it was only because of his brother, and you know whatits true, but they would do the same if they had a brother. I cant win a contest for him, but I can make sure he gets to Vegas and gets an audition, thats what brothers are for! Have you and Robin performed together on stage? Robin would come to my shows and when hed get up and sing- he would stand perfectly still and sing with his hand over his ear Now he moves more then I do!! We also did the 68 Comeback re-creation together, thats where he decided to become an Elvis Tribute Artist. Your big dream at one time was to re-create Elvis 68 Comeback Special- you were able to do it twice! Can you tell the readers why you had this big dream, and how it all came about? I was surprised no one did it before me; it seemed to be a natural show to perform. In my opinion it was the climax of Elvis career, the Aloha Special was just another concert on his tour that was shown via satellite, 68 was a concept and a re-birth for Elvis. After winning the Memphis contest I wanted to do something that would prove to people why I won. It took a lot of work, but its the thing Im [most proud of- I hope the people liked it!   You are a big KISS fan; I believe it would be a safe guess to say that they were definitely and inspiration? Your also a big collector of KISS items, have you ever had the opportunity to meet with any of them, or to see a concert? You have incorporated some KISS like material in past performances; do you do anything crazy like that in Vegas? On stage in Vegas Im just Paul Stanley in an Elvis outfit Robin and I went to a KISS convention in Seattle in 1995- only 100 people were there, we watched them play live and un-plugged, and then they signed my guitar. Ive seen them live 5 times- twice with make-up. Your repertoire of a variety of music abilities is quite long. What other music did you perform during your dance sets etc when you were on the road? Any Favourites? On the road my show was 4 hours long (tito, pass the tissue) 2 Elvis sets and a Rock set. Favourites- 60 Minute Man (applause), Greased Lightening, Mustang Sally, Were here for a good time, Stuck in the Middle. Etc... What do you do in your spare time? How do you like to relax? In my spare time- its my wifes time. I relax by making mini-discs, watching movies and doing nothing with my wife. Some ETAs have a favourite Elvis song, and a worst can you tell us yours? Dont is my favourite Elvis song.. Yoga is as yoga does, is Elvis worst! What era do you enjoy performing the most? I dont perform Elvis in the 70s- I do 50s and 60s Elvis. *********************************************** Stay tuned for part two of the interview with Darren- here you will learn more about what keeps this guy ticking! While your waiting check out Darren's fabulous website!! Thank you Darren for doing what you do- Keeping the memory alive! *********************************************** Pictures: Darren's mother handing him flowers on stage Darren on Stage Memphis-Images of Elvis on stage...1998 '68 Re-Creation Flyer Darren, Robin, and Linda- '68 Re-Creation (Dressing room) Darren Relaxing! ************************************************* DARREN SPEAKS OUT... Author: Melody Sanders Published on: July 5, 2002         MADISON SQUARE GARDENS and DARREN? Bringing Darrens interview to its final phase has been a long but enjoyable process. I have to tell you a little about this particular interview. It will show you a little more about this Canadianturned-superstar. With Darren heading off to Vegas to perform in the American Superstars, and everyone trying to settle back into a routine of our own we have kind of lost touch. So when I ventured out to begin this forum, I knew that I would have to have Darren as part of the beginning of my new baby, here on Suite101. Of course with the age of technology and Internet, the most promising and easiest way to do much of anything now a days is via email. Darren agreed to an interview and as I considered so many questions, I wondered just how long this poor guy would have to spend getting all his answers to me. I warned him that they all didnt have to be answered and that any one of them could be skipped if he didnt want to answer, or simply didnt want to. True to Darrens form, I have to tell you, not only were all the questions answered, but also they were answered in awesome detail and hand written! Yes, he wrote all the answers out obviously being more comfortable with singing then typing I would imagine!! When the answers to the questions were completed, they would have to get back to me.. His wife was on the sending end, and I was on the receiving end AND receive I did!! The low humming sound of the fax could be heard, and after about 10 minutes the final sheets were emerging and the fax machine was panting! Now without further ado, lets read on ***************************************************************** Darren what would you say is one of the most powerful and emotional moments in your career? Receiving an award from the mayor of Port Coquitlam for winning the contest (Memphis 97) was the most rewarding point in my career! Who would you say was the biggest push and drive in your career, and why? When I was starting out, Sister Claire Ashe In my teen years- Ray Arnault But overall my mom was my biggest supporter and best critic. She would tell me if I needed to work harder on singing and praise me when I got it right, a job my wife has taken on. When it comes to a jumpsuit, you were well known for your determination not to ever wear one. Has that changed at all? Definitely not. Elvis is the only one that can get away with wearing them. The closest I will get is to have a jumpsuit style Bolero Jacket made to go with baggy pants. What would you say you miss most about doing the smaller shows and touring? Do you think that you will ever go back to that type of thing, or is it strictly the BIG lights for you now? It took 14 years to get to Vegas; Im not leaving yet, until I receive everything I want from this city! I do want to return to Canada and do some theatre shows once in a while now that Ive got something new to add to the marquee- I just dont know if I can get into the lace up pants anymore!! Tell us a little about your Big Day My Big Day? I guess you mean our wedding. Well, Allison and I got engaged after 5 years together and we were married April 11th at the Tropicana Hotel in Vegas. I thought Id sing Amazed to her as she walked by an outdoor waterfall to me. Instead of sounding like Lonestar, it sounded like Alfalfa"- (Allisons favourite moment!) I believe that many of your fans were surprised at your marriage, would you say this is accurate? It really doesnt matter. The only thing that matters about Elvis is that he was the greatest singer of all time and he sold 1 billion records, not who he married or how he died. I am not Elvis, Im not even famous yet, and my private life is just that- Private. If it bothered anyone then they should go worship another Elvis. All that should matter is that Darren Lee kicked ass in concert when he jumped on tables, won a contest, and made it to Vegas! Pretty good for a Canadian, eh? How about future plans, children etc? We have a beautiful Maltese puppy named Darla, thats enough for now! Your wife is a wonderful woman, but do you find that the challenge of your career adds stress to a relationship? What advice would you have to give to an entertainer to reassure his spouse? Not anymore. When I was on the road for months at a time it was a little stressful, but now were married and we do everything together now- if I go out of town Ill get her a plane ticket and shell go with me. When Paul McCartney was married he said Besides being in jail in Japan he only spent 1 night in 29 years away from his wife The same goes for me, if I can help it. Guys- make your wife a part of your career- youll get along better! Allison, could you give any advice to other wives/girlfriends about this type of situation and how to cope with the different issues that arise? Allison: Hmmm, Let me just say that it always takes two in a relationship. People always say You should support Darren, well of course! But this goes both ways in any relationship whether youre married to a lawyer, doctor whatever Its important that both people love, trust, support-each other totally. Isnt that what love and friendship is all about? Advice Id give- is to love each other enough to give full support, & trust- but most of all, give your friendship and love totally. Good lasting relationships are built on loyalty, trust, love & assurance. As long as both people in a relationship are both giving these things, everything is perfect. Darren and I get along so well! Actually, people are quite surprised, they even ask, So when are you two getting married! lol I guess because we have so much fun together and get along so well like two best friends, they think, They cant be married- makes us proud! I asked Allison a few questions about Darren and his additional job performing weddings   Allison: He performs "renewal" ceremonies with Elvis versed vows we came up with-People love it! Or a minister will come in and perform the ceremony, and then Darren sings and performs as Elvis What steps were needed for Darren to be able to this? Allison: Darren is not a minister, notary, or justice of the peace. He just performs renewal ceremonies or sings at a ceremony. He just decided one day that he wanted Variety like he had in his 4 hr shows! He misses the freedom of choice for choosing his song sets, talking & entertaining people. At weddings, people are there to have a great time and of course love the Entertainment! Do you get to attend also? Allison: Oh yes I have fun at them as well! You get people from all over the world coming to Las Vegas to get married! England, other States, Germany, etc! I sometimes take photos and/or video. Most of the pics that are on Darrens wedding site are pictures I have taken (Main Wedding Page & Testimonials Page) of weddings Darren has performed. I had to ask Allison this one last important question: Does Darren still drink Slurpees like there is no tomorrow? Allison: Ha ha Actually, no! Not since I showed him what pop/Slurpees does to a silver nail! It turned BLACK & was corroded within a week! I told him, Darren, thats what your stomach looks like inside! So now, on occasion, hell have a pop here, very seldom, and never Slurpees because CANADA rocks when it comes to Slurpees! Thanks Allison for your input- and your help! BACK TO DARREN! Is there any chance that you will be able to make it to Memphis this year?  Not a chance. I wish I could especially because its Robins first year in the contest and he was there every year I entered- it was our bond time. I wish Robin all the luck in the world, but he doesnt need it, eventually he will win and perform in Vegas too. Congrats to all the Tribute Artists! You created quite an impression during your trips to Memphis The JAM sessions were high on everyones list to attend, each and every night almost. you were the first to make that a big thing, correct? Do you know if they have continued on without you? That got started with me and Anthony Giovan (Anthony Von), just sitting around the lobby of the hotel singing, Elvis and the Beatles tunes for fun and slowly a crowd would sit in, then it grew to every night. After a while, the other Tribute Artists would show up and sing. It was a lot of fun. I dont know if it continued on. Im not sure if it would have the same vibe; after all, we started out just entertaining ourselves for fun. So many new ETAs on the up rising, are there any suggestions you can offer for them to achieve a successful career in the ETA world? Be real, there are too many jokes out there performing a parody and sometimes mockery of Elvis. Always be yourself and acknowledge Elvis. e.g. (this is Elvis biggest record-not yours) Do not over-do the Elvis thing. People appreciate a tribute more then a parody impersonation. Study the man, learn his moves, and learn to sing like him- find the feeling in his voice. It starts and ends with the voice-everything else is just icing! As time goes by, what do you want people to remember most about you? That I gave people a show People can sit at home and listen to the real thing why should they come and see you? When I jumped on a table- I attacked the table, when I swung my jacket- I destroyed a chandelier- Elvis was the pelvis- I worked hard to re-create that! I used to get strictly comments on moves, now I get more comments on my voice- that means more to me. I also would like people to remember that as a Canadian, I won in Memphis, and made it to Vegas and entertained a few people along the way! What is it you want to achieve, what are your goals? Performing songs from original albums to people that dont know I was ever an Elvis What are you doing now towards working on those? Absolutely nothing- when you have a steady job with only 1 day off and doing 2 shows a day, its kind of hard to do anything else! I will have to leave the show if I want to move on-coming soon You have achieved and often exceeded many of your goals over the years. Now for the headlines of Darren Lees future, how would it read? ONE NIGHT ONLY MADISON SQUARE GARDENS DARREN LEE!! In Closing is there anything you would like to say to everyone? First of all, only famous people, or people that think they are famous have fans. My club was called the, Friends of Darren Lee, because friends were more important to me, having people who came to my show and later become friends of mine. Some became fan club presidents, and some became family- thanks to all who supported me through the years, bought my C.Ds, and sat through 4 hours extravaganzas! It aint over yet baby!!!!! ******************************************************* Thanks Darren for everything you do! Also, a very special thanks to Allison for all her help and input! For those of you that are interested in Darrens fan club, the Friends of Darren Lee, or interested in purchasing a CD, or any other souvenirs Please visit Darrens website. **************************************************** You can catch Darren's performance at the American Superstars show at the Stratosphere hotel in Las Vegas- Contact the hotel for dates and times. If your heading to Vegas to get married or renew your vows, give Darren a shout-he would love to perform for you on your special day! Just contact him through his website. What a great memory to have! -------------------------------------------------------- Well this concludes part two of the interview with Darren. I do hope that everyone enjoyed the update and will contact either him or me with your comments. We would love to hear from you! Until next time... Adios