Former 'Rock Star' Cast Member Performs on Island
By Diane Ivey

Brandon Calhoon, one of the many singer-songwriters to perform at The Inn at Stonecliffe's summer concert series, has been coming to Mackinac Island since childhood.

Singer and songwriter Brandon Calhoon, a contestant from the 2005 reality game show, "Rock Star: INXS," performed as part of the Inn at Stonecliffe's Summer Concert series Wednesday, June 18.

Mr. Calhoon, who hails from Beaverton, is recording a demo for August release in Detroit, where he now lives. Although he has been coming to the Island since childhood, Mr. Calhoon said he wanted to perform at Stonecliffe since his best friend was married there two years ago.

He said he liked returning to Mackinac Island because of the relaxed atmosphere.

"I love biking around the Island and being away from the hustle and bustle of Detroit," Mr. Calhoon said. "It's great to take a breather."

Mr. Calhoon performed acoustically to a mix of covers and original songs. Although he enjoys playing solo, he said it's an entirely different experience than playing with a band, as he has been doing lately.

"When you perform acoustically, it's easy for people not to like you," he said. "When you're alone, you're hung out to dry in a creative field. You have to have a thick skin. But with a band, it's more of a team effort."

Mr. Calhoon, who has played guitar since high school and has been singing since 21, said music can transport him to another place.

"I can really dive into art," he said. "I can close my eyes and cover up the world."

His style consists of bluesy and free-spirited folk music, he said, rather than the storytelling that is more commonly used by singer-songwriters. He counts the Black Crowes and Jonny Lang among his greatest musical influences.

"My biggest influence comes from the everyday, and from being free-spirited," Mr. Calhoon said. "I like to remain open to different avenues in music, and sometimes surprising things happen."

Although he was eliminated seventh during Rock Star: INXS, Mr. Calhoon said the experience taught him valuable lessons about the recording industry.

"It's the toughest industry in the world," he said. "You hear all the time that you're either too old or you have to switch to country music. You can make a great song, but then you have to sell it. There are so many variables involved."

Mr. Calhoon will be playing at bars and festivals in Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, and Detroit. He will be recording with Blunk Street Music, a start-up independent label in Detroit.

Stonecliffe's summer concert series performances are every Wednesday until August 27, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The concerts are free, and no reservations are necessary.