Dear Boiler Room,
I am deeply saddened to learn that you will no longer be able to service the community. You all have been an inspiration to me.
Last year on February 22 – my 37th birthday – I had discovered a hidden talent, and that is karaoke.
Truth be told, I’ve never sung any song before in my life.
I’ll never forget singing “Dancing Queen” by Abba and “Like a Prayer” by Madonna soon thereafter, among many others. One hundred percent of the credit goes to you for your love and support.
From that day forward, I began to regularly attend the Boiler Room. sometimes on a daily basis. It was just like being part of a family, as I am with Street Roots. Every time the DJ would announce me, “Mad Man Marlon” coming to the stage,” I always briefly address the patrons in attendance that the Boiler Room is the “best karaoke bar in Portland.”
It still is to me, even now.
As I conclude this letter with deep sadness in my heart, I want you all to know that you’ll always have a special place in it. If I should ever continue karaoke in the future, the Boiler Room is forever with me in spirit. Much mad love.
Marlon Crump A.K.A. Mad Man Marlon
Street Roots vendor
This article appears in 2016-09-16.