Singing chef has eyes set on ‘American Idol’
Posted on Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Dane Main decided this is the year he’s going for his dream. On Aug. 8, he will audition in Kansas City for “ American Idol. ”
“ I’ve loved to sing forever, ” Main explained at a table in the business he owns, Big Guys Subs and Bakery in Bentonville. “ I sang in school choirs, and then I sang all the time when I was in culinary school. I’m a 2000 graduate of the College of Culinary Arts at Johnson and Wales University. I specialized in baking and pastries through continuing education classes at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, N. Y. I still sing when I cook. Did you hear me when you came in ? ”
Main’s career: Cooking.
His passion: Singing.
Knowing that 28 years of age is the cutoff for competitors on “ American Idol, ” 28-year-old Main figures it’s now or never. He said he doesn’t want to spend the rest of his life wondering what might have been if he didn’t try out.
“ My parents, Kathy and Scott Main, taught me to set goals and work toward them, ” Main said. “ That’s what I’ve always done, and now it’s time to go for my “ American Idol” goal. Everyone is really supportive. My mom works here at Big Guys, too.
“ Melinda, my wife, and Aliyah, my 6-year-old daughter, are really excited about my audition. We’re expecting a baby in September, and the audition is in August. I have a lot of wonderful things going on. And my sister Shaila Witt works here at the shop every day. She’s really supportive, too. Everyone I know has encouraged me, and I appreciate them. ”
Main lost 145 pounds and has kept it off for more than three years. He said he lost the weight for two reasons — to get healthier and to improve his appearance at the audition.
He bought Big Guys Subs and Bakery five months ago. Along with sandwiches and salads, Main has added a selection of delicious confections. He creates wedding cakes and theme cakes for special occasions. Pastries and goodies are a big part of Big Guys fare now.
Choosing a couple of songs for the audition wasn’t tough for Main.
“ One is a Shai song, ‘ If I Ever Fall in Love, ’ Main said. “ The other is a Rascal Flatts song, ‘ Shine On. ’ Rascal Flatts is my all-time favorite group, but I love all kinds of music. I like jazz, blues, hip-hop, just anything with a beat and a melody. ”
Main and his family live on almost 8 acres in Jane, Mo. They have horses and a swimming pool and enjoy the outdoors. As much as he enjoys his home and his business, Main said he’s looking forward to going to Kansas City for the audition.
“ I’m really looking forward to it, ” Main said. “ Even if I don’t make it too far, it will be a great experience. And I won’t ever give up singing. I love it too much. ”
FEEDBACK:
Something to say about this topic? Submit a Letter to the Editor online
