Album Notes

When , after much prodding from friends and family, Lew Sleeman found himself standing in line with 750 other contestants on a warm March day in 2004, he had no idea of what was to be. After all, he had been reluctant to be there , feeling that since he was past the age limit for "American Idol", he probably wouldn't be considered here either.
In the same genre as "American Idol", "Pepsi's Gimme The Mike Columbus" did not seem to be the place for this semi-retired grandfather to be struttin' his stuff. His hope in being there at all was that he might talk to some of the others in line and learn of some places in Columbus where he might perform his show as "A Party Of One", which he had been having success with in the Mount Vernon area. Little did he know! When the smoke cleared, he and nineteen others from the group of seven hundred and fifty were chosen to participate in the televised competition.
After hearing his winning performance of "If You Ever Have Forever In Mind", competition judge Drew Rives of Def Jam Records said, "If I didn't know better Lew, I'd swear you wrote that song yourself". Sunny 95's Dino Tripodis concurred, saying, "You made me a believer. I felt that you've really lived that song."
"Gimme The Mike" ruled the viewer market for it's time slot in central Ohio, and this vast exposure has resulted in many bookings and much interest in Lew's vocal talent, culminating in this CD.
Lew secured the right to record "If You Ever Have Forever In Mind". Additionally, talented local songwriters and musicians Carl Young, Michael Strait, and Jerry Lusenhop have provided material and allowed Lew to interpret them in his own way. "Goin' Home", written by Lew, reflects his feelings upon deciding to return to Ohio after twenty-seven years in L.A. A cover of Harry Chapin's "Better Place to Be" is included he says "...because it tells a great story and it feels good".
The project was recorded at Dynamic Sound Studio utilizing the production genius of Kevin Dread, and the engineering talent of George Oswalt.
The CD is dedicated to Karen, who encouraged Lew to do the song. Unfortunately , she did not live to see the outcome, but their daughter Paige and grandson Brady are enjoying what has transpired.
Lew recently appeared at Loretta Lynn's Ranch near Nashville, Tennessee. His rendition of "If You Ever Have Forever In Mind" received a standing ovation from a crowd which had come from all over the United States.
At the Dan Emmett Festival Lew has opened for Paul Revere And The Raiders, Jan And Dean, and The Association.
In addition to being featured on Fox News and Good Day Columbus, Lew is often asked to do guest vocals with The TJ Lewis Blues Review, Jinx's Yard, and The Nomads. His most recent was as special guest with Sweet Revenge before a capacity crowd at the Memorial Theater.
His solo act is popular in a variety of venues.
For more "Lew" stuff, check out his website :
www.lewsleeman.com