Walter Cunningham on his singing idols, the most memorable moments from the 2013 competition — and what he plans to do with the prize money
Walter Cunningham placed fifth in 2008, the first year he entered the Voice of Pride competition. He didn’t place again until this year, when he won it all. (Patrick Hoffman/Dallas Voice)
When his name was announced late on Aug. 11, Walter Cunningham had finally achieved a dream he’d had for five years: Winning the Voice of Pride competition, sponsored by the Dallas Tavern Guild.
Cunningham’s journey was a strange one. The first year he competed, 2008, he actually came in fifth. Since then, he’s been out of the medal range — one of the many who just gets to “enjoy the experience.” But oh, how much more enjoyable it is to finally come in first.
Of course, his title comes with one big consequence: As a winner (the 10th solo victor in the contest’s history), Cunningham is now ineligible to compete in future VOPs. How will he deal with no longer having a summer to rehearse, sing and hope to win? … We imagine he’ll adjust.
We grabbed Cunningham the morning after his victory to find out what it meant to him, how he got there and what he plans to do.
Name and age: Walter Cunningham, 28.
Congratulations! So, what’s your occupation when you’re not winning Voice of Pride? Host/cashier at Sushi Zushi and local actor.
Where else do you perform? Local theaters, and every Thursday at Woody’s!
We’ve seen you in several shows over the year, memorably Dallas Theater Center’s Cabaret and earlier this year Songs for a New World with Uptown Players. So when did you start singing? I’ve been singing ever since I can remember.
When did you start singing in public? Talent shows in elementary school and at church.
You’ve entered VOP before .…: Yes; my first year was 2008. I placed fifth.
At what club did you qualify for VOP? The Round-Up Saloon.
What songs did you sing at the finale? My song choices were “Feeling Good” by Michael Bublé and “Flying Home” from Songs for a New World.
How did you celebrate after? Lots of hugging, smiling … and shots!
Tell us your singing idols: Stevie Wonder, John Legend and Beyoncé.
What is your favorite kind of music to listen to? It’s all over the board! I love all music, especially anything by Beyoncé!
OK, you’re one of those Beyoncé gays. What’s your favorite to sing? I love the music of Motown and funk. Soul music is also a favorite.
How would you describe your own singing style? Loud — just kidding. That’s a tough question — it changes a lot depending on what I’m singing.
What was most helpful in preparing for the competition? Trusting my instincts when it came to song selection. My first year, I was disconnected to my songs and it showed.
It’s a singing competition but you’re also judged on performance, energy and look. Who designed your outfit? Me, myself and I … with the help of Matt Miller.
What is your most memorable image from the competition? Our faces when the opening number began — priceless!
What advice would you give someone who wants to participate in VOP down the road? Go for it! Tomorrow is not promised. And trust your instincts.
What does this title mean to you as a member of the community? That I finally have a platform as a singer here in Dallas — which is fierce!
What will you do with the $3,500 in prize money? I’ve been walking everywhere for four years so I’m getting a car!
Where will you go with the airline tickets — and who will you take? (P.S., I’m available and a good traveling companion): Good ol’ Orlando! One of my best friends, Jason, will be joining me!
I figured you wouldn’t pick me … So, be honest — why do you think you won? Let me start by saying that singing alone is so intimate and personal that it’s nerve-racking to do it in front of hundreds of people! I feel that as an entertainer, your job is not only to sound good but to be honest with your portrayal of the piece you are performing. I feel that I accomplished that at finals.
Describe something about the experience, whether the early rounds or what went through your mind the moment when you heard your name called: We all know each other here in the Dallas singing community, so getting to know them on a personal level was the highlight of my journey. This was my fifth time doing Voice of Pride, so seeing some of the same faces makes me extremely happy that no one has given up!
What will you sing at the festival in September? To be announced!
This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition September 13, 2013.