The Night Ranger; A Stop Sign Power Ballad

Someone once told me that if you can sing “off tune” or off pitch, you have the ability to be a great singer.  If that is the case, then I have just crossed paths with – quite possibly - the greatest singer on the planet.  Hands down.

I’m in the left lane.  He’s in the right.  It’s muggy today – we both had our windows down.  I’m listening to the news on KOMO.  He is rocking out to what only could be an 8-track or cassette tape.  The song – Night Ranger’s power ballad:  Don’t Tell Me You Love Me.  If you’re not familiar with the tune – flash back your mind to the early 80’s.  I will be sure to include a link to the song.  To help you – here’s the chorus line:

CHORUS:
Don't tell me you love me
Don't tell me you love me
Don't tell me, I don't wanna know
Don't tell me you love me
Don't tell me you love me
Don't tell me, I don't wanna know

From - DON'T TELL ME YOU LOVE ME, Written By: Jack Blades

His car speakers clearly went to “11”… and he was singing over the top of the music, so yeah… this dude was singing pretty loud.  I sat there, smirking – at first… and then, I was astonished.  Did this guy not care that …1) his voice was pretty awful and 2) um, DUH, I could hear him!  

I was chuckling to myself when, suddenly he looked over at me.  To my total surprise – he smiled at me, while he kept on singing, and gave me a “double fist pump” in the air. 

Stunned, I could only do one thing – I smiled and gave him a courtesy “fist pump” back.  He then launched into what I could only describe as being a drum solo on his steering wheel. 

The light turned green, and he was gone.

I drove home, unloaded the groceries, and relived the experience in my head.  To be honest, I am still a little star-struck .  He was not only aware that he was being watched and listened to… he acknowledged it, he even gave it a ‘fist pump’ of approval.  Awesome. 

Mr. Night Ranger, I may never see you again, but do not doubt for a minute - I will never forget the sound of your voice.