Candidates hold croon-off for Minneapolis council seat
After debating such weighty issues as police misconduct, jobs and education at a forum tomorrow, the four candidates running to replace Minneapolis City Council Member Don Samuels will get a chance to showcase their musical talents (or lack thereof.)
Rather than the traditional closing statements, the Neighborhoods Organizing for Change forum at the Capri Theater will close with a karaoke competition.
"It's a fun way to break the ice," said spokesman Josh Keller.
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The candidates have all agreed to participate, with varying levels of trepidation. Here's a preview of what voters can expect to hear.
Brett Buckner
Occupation: Community organizer
Favorite karaoke jam: "Don't Stop Believin'"
What he'll be performing: "The People" by rap artist Common, although Buckner plans to sanitize the lyrics a bit "to make it more inclusive."
Ian Alexander
Occupation: Attorney
Favorite karaoke jam: (pregnant pause) "I can hear you, I just decided not to answer that."
What he'll be performing: An original poem by northsider Shvonne Johnson with musical accompaniment. "That is what they're going to get from me. I can't sing. I can't dance. I have no talent, so I became a lawyer."
Blong Yang
Occupation: Attorney
Favorite karaoke jam: Not really a karaoke connoisseur
What he'll be performing: "Cult of Personality" by Living Colour. "I picked something easy so I won't look foolish."
Green Party candidate Kale Severson will also be participating in the debate, but did not return calls and e-mails seeking comment in time for this hard-hitting work of investigative journalism.
Photos courtesy of candidates' websites or Facebook pages