Karaoke Superstars

TOOTS LITTLE HONKY TONK: Pete Hoffecker
I was born in Bogota, Colombia, South America (and raised as a northerner); the idea of a Southern honky-tonk bar can sound a little scary. But Toot’s is a cultural melting pot and embraces people of all types. Hipsters and cowboys rub elbows and share laughs. As far as song selection—I’m 32, so I got some ’80s influence. I don’t sing songs I generally listen to, it’s more of the cheesy blast-from-the-past variety: Great White’s “Once Bitten, Twice Shy,” Golden Earring’s “Radar Love,” George Michael’s “Faith,” and even Buck Owens’ “Act Naturally.” Sure, you have your American Idol wannabees, but if you aren’t a great singer no one cares. The objective is to have fun, not to impress your peers with your amazing voice. Like Buck Owens said, “All you gotta do is act naturally.”
—PETE HOFFECKER