Fred Montana: A Man and His Music Variety Singer from Eden Prairie, MN

FRED MONTANA Southwest Metro Magazine Interview - July 2014 Issue - eden-prairie-singer-fred-montana “THE SONGS WE GREW UP WITH, FELL IN LOVE TO AND STILL LISTEN TO TODAY” Fred Montana is a cover solo artist who specializes in The Great American Song Book, the music made famous by Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Barry Manilow, and Neal Diamond and renewed by contemporary celebrities Rod Stewart and Michael Bublé. He expands his repertoire with a little bit of country, R&B, and 70s singer/songwriter favorites. With great respect for the iconic singers, who inspired him, Montana makes every song his own. Fred Montana, has recently emerged on the Minnesota music scene and taken everyone by surprise. Audiences, including veteran musicians, are astonished by the smooth, rich quality of his voice and his commanding ability to play with a phrase. “He both understands and executes the morphing and stretching of phrasing in the way Frank Sinatra epitomized during the Big Band era.” Fred finds a deep pocket in the groove of contemporary, straight-ahead pop. A regular at the acclaimed School II Bistro and Wine Bar, Chanhassen, MN, known for its full slate of noteworthy Minnesota musicians and vocalists, Fred has a growing, appreciative following there, as well as at the Lodge Supper Club in Robbinsdale, The Corral and the Chase Hotel in northern Minnesota. HERE'S WHAT FANS ARE SAYING ABOUT FRED: Dear Fred, Gary and I want to let you know how much we appreciate the spectacular music you provided for our recent 50th anniversary celebration at Paul and Janelle's home. There is no way we can express the love and joy we felt that day. You were a HUGE part of providing that. Your warmth and talent will remain in our memories whenever we recall that incredible day. Every time I share the events, your participation is a high light. Thank you! Darlene --------- "Fred is one of the nicest people on the planet and he puts on a wonderful show. You feel like you're his family at his at a special event!" Colleen Ousdigian --------------------- "...we were so impressed! Fred is amazing! We really enjoyed the music - he is so talented! Also impressed with the other singers! Very fun! Take care - and hopefully we will see each other again soon!" Marsha LeFevre --------------------- “Fred Montana is one of the true hidden talents of the Twin Cities, if not the country. Fred connects with the audience like no other, knowing everyone by name and connecting with each individual in the audience multiple times during the course of the evening. Fred makes you feel like you are a part of the show, touching on your emotions through his interaction and song. Every performance feels brand new, with fresh songs each time. No two shows are alike. Fred Montana is a show you do not want to miss.”! Pliny Smith ----------------------- "Fred sang at our daughter's wedding last summer and he was ABSOLUTELY wonderful!! Everyone, all ages, loved Fred and were amazed at his talent and showmanship. When our guests started dancing before dinner we knew he was going to be a hit. Fred is so gracious and appreciative to his audience - he does more than just sing... We are always amazed at how he is able to sing such a variety of music and do it so well. (plus he's the best dressed guy we know and always looks great!)!" Tom and Terri Cooney ------------------------------- "I want to take a moment to tell you how much I appreciate your talent and generous spirit! I find myself singing along with every beautiful song you sing. Your music brings back such wonderful memories. Your personality, voice, and energy fill the room, whether it is School II, Bayview Center, or at my store in Excelsior. Our American Heart Association event ran 3 hours longer as people continued dancing to your music. Everywhere you go, happiness and joy follow. Thank you for sharing your talents. I look forward to seeing you soon!!" Debra Antone Scusi!! ---------------------- "When we think 'feel the love', Fred Montana doesn't kid around! Fred's performances are a delight because he exudes sheer joy and it is contagious. Couple this with a repertoire spanning Sinatra to Manilow, Nashville to Motown, Fred gives his all directly to you. Whether it is one's enjoyment of listening, singing along or dancing, Fred's spirit is nothing short of uplifting. Rahjta Ren ------------- "Tuesday nights at School II in Chanhassen is my "to go" place to be. The reason is to hear Fred Montana sing. And boy, can he sing. His show is the best in town. Singing everything from Sinatra to Michael Jackson. He is so engaging with his audience, and he makes everyone feel as if they are part of his show. It is a blast to be there, as we all have so much fun. He has an outstanding voice; a joy to listen to. One always wants to sing along with him. He is the best!!" Barbara Firth-Arnold ------------------------