SHAWN - Part One Up until this point, this first visit to Memphis during Elvis week had been uneventful. We had only been there for 24 hours and neither one of us still knew much of anything about Elvis Tribute Artists, let alone who was who, or what to expect so it really made for a very innocent beginning.  A few hours here and there were filled with watching a few guys belting out some common Elvis tunes, and while we politely applauded them, we were wondering what all the hubbub was about we figured it was because we were new to this whole Elvis thing. Not knowing what to expect as my friend and I sat under the tent kiddy corner across from Graceland, an image of Elvis could be seen sitting in the darkness over near the soundboard. I leaned over and pointed in his direction to my friend, whispering (not sure why I had to whisper), That guy sure looks like Elvis, I wonder who it is. My curiosity was soon squelched when an introduction was made and Shawn Klush casually bounced on stage! I suppose what took me by surprise the most, was the mass hysteria that had followed his entrance. It was clearly plain that this guy had something that everyone else knew about, and something that we were about to learn! When Shawn hit the stage, it was if a whole transformation had taken place, and we were taking a flying leap through time travel back to the busy era of Elvis rise to fame. We no longer were in control of our own actions, we became like puppets on a string, and Shawn was the unknowing puppeteer. Every move he made was followed by a scream, every sad song was trailing a tear and every sexy move was followed with hysterics! You could feel the air thick with anticipation and excitement, and for the entire time Shawn was singing, you would be able to honestly imagine that you were indeed watching the King himself! During a breathing break, and even when singing, Shawn was being bombarded with hormones from all directions women savagely tripping over chairs and pushing their way through the crowd to get a closer look, a picture or a hug from the poor guy. Well poor guy is a bit of a dramatization. I can assure you that each and every time these women were throwing themselves at his feet, there was a noticeable gleam in those eyes. You could see that he was caught off guard on this first occasion, but it didnt take long for him to become quite comfortable with his audience. The puppeteer would have his group at the edge of their seats, just waiting for their next move, or should I say, his next move? You would catch him casually looking over his shoulder into the darkness where his wife was sitting, passing a smile her way. Inconspicuously she took the back seat and sat watching her husband bring this audience to its peak. She could see that the years of hard work and holding true to his dreams, was finally being accepted, almost reverently by the kings very own fans. If there was any jealousy or insecurities, I would have been hard pressed to see it in her. No, this lady was simply proud and happy to see her husbands success. Along with the sounds of Suspicious Minds and Heartbreak Hotel Shawn became famous for singing the songs that audiences rarely ever hear. Long Black Limousine soon became a favorite of mine after that week, and the awesome duet with Danny singing Kissin' Cousins will always be something that stands out in my memory bank! The mannerisms, stage antics, and exactness of Shawns tribute are what give him the edge. He does his tribute first class- all the way! A few years have passed since that Elvis Week, but we all knew that this man was going somewhere. With the dozens and dozens of camera crews, reporters and scouts, there was little doubt that he would make it to the big league. Indeed Shawn did make it big, and there has been no stopping this young man. He is on a roll- Rock n Roll that is, and will keep everyone longing for more and more. You cannot grow weary of his stage presence- it is truly a gift. I began this interview with Shawn thinking I could do it without the standard interview back and forth banter. After reading his answers, I soon realized that there was no way that I could show Shawns personality without quoting his words direct. So that is what I have done. One of Shawns finer qualities is his sense of humor and unassuming nature, as you read his interview- they become quite apparent. ****************************************** The first time I saw you on stage at Graceland Crossing, I was totally amazed. From the looks, voice and mannerisms, you held the audience in awe. Often one could see women sitting under the tent; just waiting... they were practically camping out waiting until you arrived, often for hours on end. Some of the things the fans in the audience did- seemed to catch you off guard. I can remember women going up to the stage trying to tuck money in your shirt, offering you gifts, and each and every-one trying to vie for your attention. How were you able to remain so calm and casual through all this attention? The attention is very flattering and fun, but can also be destruction to some. I have always followed this rule "never expect all the attention" I don't really feel like I am worthy of such affection, but it certainly is a great feeling to know you are loved and appreciated. So I just handle it by accepting and enjoying the moment, cause it could be gone real fast in this fickle business. I also noticed that even though the girls were trying to give money and things to you, that you graciously tried to return them not wanting anything other then to be friends through Elvis. I am sure you still receive numerous gifts, do you have a favorite charity or spot that you donate some of the gifts to? We try to help all charities that we can reach within our means. I would certainly love to help with Homeless Children who have no one, and help with Battered Women or Spousal Abuse, just to name a few. The other memorable memory for me was the unending energy. For hours the fans wanted you, and for hours you sang. The more they asked the more you sang. Poor Danny (McCorkle) was continually being asked when you were coming to the stage, when you would be on, and for how long. Did you ever get run down from the constant demand, long hours and lack of sleep? What was it that kept you going so strong? Again it's the attention thing, like I said it is a wonderful feeling, so in return I give it right back by giving them everything I have. Its kinda like me against them and we will see who drags who out first, LOL. Obviously, the strong support that was shown to you during that trip in 1997 attracted a great deal of attention from outside sources also. Can you tell us what happened after you left Memphis that year? After Memphis that year in 1997 I was introduced to the greatest manager anyone could ever want, and we made a plan and it's been going on ever since, stronger every year. Do you remember your first trip to Graceland; can you explain your feelings? I think I was 17 the first Graceland trip. I was taken in by the whole thing. The atmosphere is all Presley in a sense that his personality really affected the way he lived his life, so when you see his home, though he is no longer with us, you truly do see him though his exquisite taste. AWESOME! How many times have you actually gone to Memphis? Been to Graceland too many times to remember! Ive heard that you are planning on attending the 25th anniversary this year in Memphis and have a few performances lined up. Will you also be at the Crossing? Our schedules are very hairy but I believe we will make time and I will bring a few friends (wink, wink) that I am sure will be a treat if they agree. Are there any new or big plans for the future at this time? Further plans Hmmmmmmmmmm, there are many things in the works, but none that I am at liberty to say, but we do plan on a couple of new albums and we have been working very closely with California to see about more acting. Speaking about acting, the movie you were in, Shake Rattle and Roll, how did this come about? The fact that they were going to film you from behind, but as soon as they saw you they changed their minds and decided to film you face on, is this a fact? Shake, Rattle & Roll was freak luck in its purest form, LOL. It was filmed in Charlotte, N.C. not that far from here. The local DJ, Deacon Dawson, of Sunny 106.5 told me of the movie being made- "Hats off to him ". We took a little trip and did the audition, which I didn't think went very well. What usually happens is the director puts you on camera, does the audition and after you leave- they make there decision right then and there. So if you don't get a call back basically YOURE DONE. I was really lucky when the next day my phone rang and there it was, WOW- truly amazing! The morning of the shoot started at 5:30 AM (not my best hour at all! LOL) off to the makeup and haircut trailer (not fun) then wardrobe, then to the set so it is about 9:30 AM at this point. The director talks to the cast about the whole scene and then you have a go at it. We did one take and he says, "CUT" and called to the script office, which was a trailer on the property, and tells us "RAP', TAKE TEN". We all went to the cafeteria and ate and then were called in to shoot it again. Only this time the cameras followed me and then I was shot from the front. All in all it took 12 takes with 3 different camera angles, so it was 36 takes. The day ended at 12:30AM. Welcome to the wonderful world of making movies, LOL. I really hope more come my way soon. ------------------------------------------ Well, this is just the beginning on our look into Shawn. Once I got him to fess up to an interview I was determined to get the whole scoop so bookmark this site, (Although Im sure you already have!) and stop by once again soon for the rest of our look into the world of Shawn Klush. The next real life look will be a deeper dig for the whole scene, what makes him tick and what keeps him right on ticking! If you have enjoyed this interview with Shawn, let him know, if you didnt-let me know! Why not start a discussion about Shawn, tell us about the first time you saw him perform! **************************Above pictures,******************* Melody and Susan sitting on the swing at the "shot-gun" shack in Tupelo. Shawn on stage at the Graceland Crossing. Shawn and Danny bringing the house down with "kissin' Cousins". Shawn performing his awesome tribute to a packed audience! ********************************************************************************************* SHAWN- THE GRANDE FINALE! Author: Melody Sanders Published on: May 20, 2002         SHAWN-Part Two The first part of the interview with Shawn was just a small taste of what was yet to come. Now, Shawn takes us into a deeper more personal look into his famous world. Although I wont be taking you on a journey back to the beginning of Shawns time, I believe you can read between the lines and see what it was and what it is that keeps him going now!  Asking simple questions, you will once again see a side of Shawn that speaks with gentleness and simplicity that will sometimes astound you. A strong vibrant young man that still believes in the simple things in life- family, fun, and dreams. ********************************************* So lets describe a typical day in the life of Shawn Right from morning till you hit the sheets at night The very first thing is "COFFEE" and then more "COFFEE" then the usual-maybe to the Park with my son or the Zoo, running the dogs on the beach, whatever house work list my wife has for me, LOL, a shower around 4:30 then off to the stage! There is more but we must keep those to ourselves Im sure no one would suspect YOU of having any bad habits, or behavior, but we all have a fewwhat do you think is your worst? Video games rule my life! LOL. I tend to analyze things too much; of course, this results in not seeing it for what it is, but for what came out of my own mind. "Silly." At the beginning of everyones career, they will usually encounter many stumbling blocks. What were some of the stumbling blocks you came upon? What kind of suggestion do you have for the New guys, on how to avoid those same blocks? As for stumbling blocks in retrospect they were really "learning blocks", so it really wasn't that bad. Then it was, but now I know why things happen. I think the new generation who is willing to do this will have all kinds of blocks "you just need to conquer them one at a time" but also learn from them. I believe that you have toured across Canada quite a while ago, where else have you performed? I have toured mostly in the US and Canada, but in the not so-far future, plans will hopefully take us all over, God willing. So far are there any tours or major performances scheduled outside of the Myrtle Beach area? Where would we go to find out any new information about your career, schedule, fan club etc? Check out my Web site:Shawn, Your fan following has grown to heights many entertainers would envy. Are there any drawbacks that arise from this? Do you have problems with the fans becoming overly jealous or anxious? Fans are the greatest and if they get overly jealous or anxious it's fine with me, because if they didn't I would be really worried! Again, it's a great feeling to be loved as long as no one gets hurt in any way. Could you share with all of us, some of your most memorable memories so far in your career? Most Memorable: Doing my album with J.D.Sumner and The Stamps! Being at Foxwoods on stage with almost Elvis's entire band! Playing in front of 56,000 people at Cominsky Park in Chicago! (WHAT A RUSH!). You have so much energy and enthusiasm, putting your all into each and every performance, what do you do to wind down after a show? "Karate" LOL no really, Thank God for Playstation 2, my son with his never-ending energy at midnight and my overly large Great Dane! If you can call all of that winding down! LOL. Anyone who knows you also knows how supportive your wife is regarding your career. Who else would you say plays a big role in supporting you in your career moves? Yes, my whole family has been the greatest through it all, but there are two gentlemen in my life who have taken me to bigger places then ever. Wayne Lampe, long time confidant, who now lives in Florida. He is the reason the 1st album got off the ground. "HATS OFF TO HIM". In ones life you come across a person who is open and honest and who can guide you through it all and keep you from packing it in when the chips are down. Dan Lentino is that gentleman in my career. I will stay with him for as long as he will have me. He is truly a unique person in all he does and I am proud that he represents me. God Bless You Dan. If you could do anything in the world, what would it be? I really enjoy what I am doing- so to be or do something else to me is irrelevant, but I do have interest in Archeology-the study of artifacts from long ago, which interests me. Many fans, friends, and family know that you are full of wit and humorous to no end, always quick to bring a smile and still humble enough to be human. Of course many of us think of ourselves differently. So how would describe yourself? A pretty easy going guy who is normal (some would not agree! LOL). I have always been a dreamer- still am. Not anything special just real lucky I guess. There is really not a whole lot to say, it's a tough question. To sum it up, I am just a normal average person having a blast at what I do and hoping you all enjoy it as well. Thanks for the ride! What do you want people to remember most about you? I want people to remember me for being real to the music, and also to look further into things when they hear stuff, because so much of it gets mixed up. So please just give me a chance. I am a real person with a passion for what I do, so I hope they see the PASSION most of all. Shawn, in closing our interview... I would like to ask you this Is there a quote that you live by, follow or think pertains to your life now? All you got is one life, living once can be rough but if you live every sec- what the heck once is enough, (sound familiar, LOL). No really I would have to say, "Keep your head against the wind and when you are tired, Push Harder," there is no time to stop and smell the roses, you can smell them when you are running with them in your hands! A few final words God Bless, thanks for the chance- hope to see you all out there soon. Shawn. ******************************** Ladies and Gentlemen: Put your hands together and thank this wonderful entertainer for contributing to the memory of Elvis Presley! Thank you Shawn for allowing us a deeper look. You would make Elvis proud! A Personal View I will admit that I was thrilled to be allowed the opportunity to interview Shawn. A man that is admired by many, but very rarely heard from. Like Elvis himself, Shawn is a very personal person and only shares with us this in-depth interview because of his desire to share himself with fans and friends. ***The question was simple, but the way that it was answered shows just a sampling of the simplistic euphoria that truly sheds light on Shawns inner soul*** I said to Shawn, What brings an automatic smile to your face? Seeing my son in the morning, Then, my First step on stage- to the crowd's reaction. AWESOME! ********************** The pictures in this article were supplied by one of Shawn's "Crazy-but loveable" fans--TERRI !! Thanks girl! Terri was also the one who helped make this interview a reality!Check out Terri's online Shawn group And don't forget to say thank you! *************************** A special thanks to Beverly for helping Shawn and I get through this! ***************************