Parishioners Open for Bon Jovi

One of the most common pieces of advice that successful artists give to those hoping for a break in the music business is "start where you are."

As someone who has been involved in publicizing and supporting local musicians for years, I've seen the faces of hopefuls seeking the fast track to fame fall quickly upon hearing that advice. But if you are willing to invest in your career, work hard and take advantage of every opportunity you can, good things can happen.

Shane and Kathy dressed as greasers in the 2003 Cabaret

Just ask our own SJA musical regulars Shane Speltz and Kathy "Kat" Perkins. Their band, Scarlet Haze, earned the coveted opening act spot on the November Minneapolis tour stop of Bon Jovi's "Have a Nice Day" tour. They were the winners of the KQRS contest in which listeners voted online to pick the local band who would open for Bon Jovi at the Target Center. Scarlet Haze won by a landslide 15,000 votes --- the second runner up got 6,000 votes and the last band received 3,000 votes…quite an accomplishment for a young band celebrating its first year together. Scarlet Haze never found out what Bon Jovi might have thought of their performance, but they did get to meet the band and pose for a picture. "Getting a taste of what it's like to play a rock show at the Target Center is like holding a carrot in front of a rabbit. Some day I hope to have carrot stew," says Shane.

The Bon Jovi show gained the hard-rocking Scarlet Haze critical exposure and an increase in its fan base. "The gig definitely gave us priceless publicity and support -- very important in a city like this.  We have had an overwhelming internet/email response and have sold hundreds of albums!  It's all very exciting and hopefully just the beginning!!," says Kat.

The band has a well-thought out plan to continue its momentum. Scarlet Haze plans to concentrate on songwriting and spreading its shows out a bit locally and regionally. Shane says, "Scarlet Haze wants to take this "rock band" thing all the way to the top.  And by top, I mean successfully sell thousands of records, have a giant fan base, tour around the nation, and buy a house on Lake Minnetonka. Until then we work hard and stay focused writing new material.  One day at a time."

Writer, speaker, consultant, administrative professional, Wendy Vickers, has been an active supporter and encourager of local musicians in the Twin Cities music community for several years. Her online newsletter on local coffeehouse performers and other music-related activities can be found on her website at www.wendyv.com .

Scarlet Haze will play a CD release concert for its debut album "Out of the Dark" on Friday, January 27 at the Varsity Theater in Minneapolis at 8 p.m. Tickets are $6 at the door. To hear some of the band's music and see pictures from the Bon Jovi show, visit www.scarlethaze.com.