He did it his way: Port Arthur man wins Sinatra sing-off

Published 9:41 am Tuesday, June 25, 2024

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Emulating the 1950s era Frank Sinatra local singer, Hunter Courts was able to match the mannerisms, presentation, swagger and vocals of the crooner to win the Hoboken My Way Sinatra Sing-Off.

The competition was held Thursday at the Hoboken waterfront framed by the New York City skyline.

Courts said there was a light breeze that day as he and 11 other contestants took part in the competition.

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The singers were asked to have five of their favorite Sinatra songs ready and the judges pick one from the choices. His was “I’ve Got You Under My Skin.”

The event began with several masters of ceremony preforming songs before calling he first contestant.

Courts was third in the group.

Singers were critiqued on a number of things from mannerisms, presentation, swagger and vocals then assigned a rating.

Courts based his suit and outfit off the songs he chose to have ready, which were from Sinatra’s 1950s era, he said.

He will be invited back to New Jersey next year where he will perform and be on hand to present the new winner with the trophy.

You can catch Courts perform at Port Arthur’s upcoming 4th of July Celebration at the Carl Parker Center among other venues.

The experience opened some doors for the local singer and he believes there was opportunities coming his way.

According to information from the Hoboken Historical Museum’s Facebook page, the event was a tremendous success.

“To the talented contestants–  we appreciate all that you did to mesmerize the crowd and share Frank’s legacy. Our congratulations to Hunter Courts for coming in first place, John Rinell in second place, and Emilio Jennette in third place,” the post read. “It was truly a magical night – we can’t wait for next year.”