Chic Peeps and Second Favorites

The Backbone and Voices of Chic

Chic is certainly not a one-woman show. I am blessed to have so many talented people on the Chic team. The “Peeps” section includes current staff and those who were instrumental in making the dream of Chic Recordings a reality.

Second-Favorite! Before there can be a “Second-Favorite,” logic would dictate there must first be a “Favorite,” right? You’ll find that guy at the top of the Peeps listing. From the time I began to cue rounds, the “second-favorite” caller designation was a long-standing reference to the caller I was working with for the evening. It made sense to transfer that title to the callers who are recording vocals for me on Chic Recordings. They are the “Voices of Chic” and the heart of the label. Do I really have a second-favorite caller? Yes, I do. But their identity is a carefully guarded secret! And by the way, Mr. Favorite is currently “on sabbatical.” Will another caller earn that coveted title?

Chic Peeps

Vic Kaaria

Vic started calling in 1975, and went “on sabbatical” in 2019. Over his career he arranged and recorded dozens of singing calls with Shakedown, Fine Tune, Gold Wing, and Sharpshooter records. His support and expertise have been invaluable as I embarked on this Chic adventure. He has truly been my silent partner. (Yes, I know it is hard to imagine Vic as a “silent” anything.) While I may admit to a bit of marital bias, there are many other reasons Vic receives the coveted “favorite” title. First (despite his “sabbatical”), he is a top-notch caller. He can read a floor (at any level through C3) and keep them dancing successfully. He understands music and knows how to use it to his (and the dancers’) advantage. He is a master harmonizer and has the ability to make others sound better when he works with them. He is a great technician with a deep understanding of choreography and definitions, and he knows exactly how and when to use it. Most of all, he is a fun caller, with a passion for the activity. Second, he is an amazing teacher. Whether he is teaching new dancers, new callers, seasoned callers, or his wife…he is a patient, encouraging, understanding, and gifted instructor. He has the ability to communicate to others in just the right way to optimize their understanding and learning. He knows how (and when) to give constructive feedback to help you be the best you can be. Last, but certainly not least (and this is where the marital bias comes into play), he has been my biggest fan and biggest support. He puts up with my never-ending questions, lifts me up during my frequent struggles with confidence, and as my silent partner in this venture provides invaluable insight and advice. In addition to all of that, I never ever have to take out the trash, he always opens doors for me, and my gas tank frequently manages to magically fill itself. It’s no wonder he’s my favorite caller! And, a Chic Peep!

Jimmy Mac

Jimmy Mac of Jimmy Mac Productions in Ventura, CA, is the magic behind much of Chic’s music. He has been in the music production business for more than thirty years and has vast experience with the needs of the square dance music community. In addition to his amazing musicianship, especially on guitar, he gives vocal lessons and knows how to bring the best out of you in the studio. He also steps in frequently to provide background vocals, and even lead vocals on our singing calls. (He is a master at hearing harmonies and helping replicate them in the studio.) Jimmy’s well-trained (but also spoiled) dogs, frequently join our sessions. Probably because we bring treats. Don’t worry, Jimmy gets treats, too! It’s no wonder he’s my second-favorite caller! And, THE Chic Peep!

Deborah Carroll-Jones

Deborah Caroll-Jones

I must confess that the first time I was invited to attend a Deborah Carroll-Jones dance back in 1996, I was hesitant because I had never danced to a female caller. Generally speaking, I have always preferred to listen to male singers, and I expected it would be the same for callers. I was promised that dancing to Deborah would change my mind and when she sang “Fisherman’s Luck,” she had me “hooked.” It would be another ten years before I entertained the notion of becoming a caller, and I certainly had no idea of the many challenges that would present. Deborah is an inspiration for female callers all over the world and has helped pave the way and open doors for all of us. Her personal support of my efforts as a caller AND a music producer are hugely appreciated.

The day before Deborah officially became a Staff Caller for Chic Recordings, I had the privilege of listening to her share the story of the beginnings of her calling career. (We were in a session at the annual CALLERLAB Convention.) While Deborah has had many recording opportunities with a variety of labels, she claimed she has never had a “home” with one. The decision to invite her to officially join Chic had already been made, and now I knew just what to say when I approached her. When I finally got the opportunity the next morning, I told Deborah that she had a home with Chic Recordings if she wanted one. Her response was an enthusiastic hug and a big “YES!” I just wish she still lived in Southern California! That’s okay, she’s still my second-favorite caller! And, a Chic Peep!

Patty Greene

I was so excited to find songs for Patty Greene to sing for Chic Recordings. Initially, she recorded as a guest caller, as she had been a recording artist with Royal Records for many years. It felt like a dream come true when the stars aligned and, with the full blessing of Tony Oxendine and the late Jerry Story, Patty officially joined the Chic family as a Staff Caller. Among her credentials, Patty is a Past Chairman of the Board for CALLERLAB and is only the second female caller to be elected as Chairman. She has also served as Chair of the Women in Calling Committee and is an amazing advocate for female callers all over the world. On top of all of that, she is a loving and giving person. Patty has been a major supporter of Chic from the beginning and has become one of my dearest friends. Although, she did reply to my Chic Staff invitation with an “I’ll have to think about it.” That’s okay though, she quickly followed it up with a “Yippee! I’d be delighted,” so she’s still my second-favorite caller! And, a Chic Peep!

Jon Jones

When we started our Chic Weekend Retreat in Big Bear, Jon traveled in with Deborah so of course we took advantage of his talents and added him to our program. It wasn’t long after that we invited him to record and officially join the Chic staff. His first recording was a classic Belafonte tune, “Man Smart, Woman Smarter.” Jon did a fantastic job with his recording and had a great time with it. Don’t let his serious face fool you, Jon is a fantastically funny and kind man…even though he keeps losing his teeth in Big Bear. That’s okay, he’s still my second-favorite caller! And now, he’s a Chic Peep!

David Mee

David Mee — www.dancewithmee.com

The first time I heard David sing was at a clogging weekend on Catalina island. He and Dawn had recently married and she “made” him sing for us at one of the dances. He gave a great rendition of Frank Sinatra’s “Chicago,” so when it came time to select a caller to record a vocal for CHIC1003 – Let’s Get Away From it All, a Sinatra tune, David was the obvious choice. In April of 2017, David accepted the invitation to be a Staff Caller for Chic Recordings and has many more recordings under his belt. David’s wife, Dawn, has also joined the Chic family as our Staff Cuer. David and Dawn were neighbors for many years and we have spent hours with them around a card table. (Did you know David cheats?) David and Vic attended the same caller school where an 11-year-old David perfected the song, “Tie a Yellow Ribbon.” Long story short, rather than learn two new singing calls each week, as assigned, David came to school for eight weeks and sang “Tie a Yellow Ribbon”…twice! In early 1996, David taught me to square dance (again) with a square in their garage. At the time, I had no idea that square dancing would end up being such a major part of my life. It’s no wonder he’s my second-favorite caller! And, a Chic Peep!

Dawn Mee

Dawn Mee — www.dancewithmee.com

Dawn may not be a caller, but she is a key part of the Chic Staff and family. As our Staff Cuer, she keeps the round dancers happy at all of our Chic dancing events. She has a long history with dancing in the extended square dance activity. She was a clogging instructor and cuer for many years prior to turning her attention and talents to the round dance community. Clogging’s loss was round dancing’s gain. She has quickly made a name for herself, writing many awarded round dances, and developing a very large following in the round dance community. Beyond that, you won’t find someone with a more kind heart. In addition, she’s a great partner when playing cards, and help catch David when he tries to blatantly cheat. We have shared many great hours around a card table, with the girls usually the winners! She is a great friend, and also my favorite cuer! (You read that right . . .favorite.) And, she’s a Chic Peep!

Steve Moore

I think my first introduction to Steve Moore came via his amazing recording of “Five Piece Band” on Gold Wing records. It only took one time hearing him call “live” to realize the amazing vocal on Gold Wing was not an anomaly. On stage, and off, Steve combines his great voice and smooth choreography with a kindness and humility that is rare in this world. Thirty years into his calling career, he made the choice to get off the road and only take local gigs, so we have only seen him a few times in the past ten years. I was thrilled when our paths crossed again in 2016 and I had my first opportunity to call/sing with him. His first vocal for Chic Recordings was CHIC1016 – Windy. Two days after the recording session, I received a delivery of two dozen red roses. The card read, “Thank you for Windy…Steve Moore.” Sorry Steve, but you got that backwards…thank YOU for “Windy.” (And for the roses.) Steve’s voice and calling talent speak for themselves, so when we decided it was time to have an official Chic “staff,” Steve was the first call we made. (Okay, it wasn’t a call…it was a text message, but it was still the first invitation sent.) In today’s world of instant communication, I had to sweat it out for fifteen whole minutes before getting his affirmative reply. I can’t believe he made me wait that long. That’s okay, he’s still my second-favorite caller! And, he’s a Chic Peep!

Joe Saltel

Joe Saltel — www.joesaltel.com

One of the most fun parts of producing square dance music is choosing callers to record the vocals. Sometimes I have a song in mind, and I search for the right caller. Sometimes I have a caller in mind, and I search for the right song. Matching the great voice of Joe Saltel to CHIC1013 – I Will was a combination of both, and ended up being a match made in heaven. Joe’s sister put it into words: “It sounds beautiful, makes everyone smile and feel great, and conveys the essence of Joe.” When I invited Joe to record for Chic, I told him I already had a song chosen for him. I said, “it’s a Beatles song, but not one of their bigger hits. It’s called, I Will.” Joe responded by singing, “who knows how long I’ve loved you…” That moment was a dead giveaway that Joe was a big Beatles fan. Joe’s calling career includes many recordings and affiliations with other music labels. In the summer of 2022, Chic Recordings became Joe’s recording “home” as our newest Staff Caller and boy did we win the lottery. Joe is one of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet, and nails every single song we give him. A consummate professional, and a great caller. Of course, now Chic has two rampant Beatles fans in our stable but that’s okay, he’s still my second-favorite caller: And, he’s a Chic Peep!

Scott Smith (Retired)

Scott Smith

So, let’s tell it like it is. When I invited Scott Smith to join Chic Recordings as a Staff Caller, I knew he was good. People who worked and danced with him prior to his retirement could not say enough good things, and some were quite literally squealing with excitement at his return to the microphone. Now that I have had the opportunity to personally work with him, (in the studio and on the stage), “good” just doesn’t quite cut it. In fact, the rest of us now simply refer to him as “Great Scott.” And we’re not kidding. When he steps into the vocal booth to record, he is ready! His recordings sound effortless, and that is clearly because so much effort went into his preparation. In fact, the rest of us just might have to step up our game to keep up with him. In 2019, Scott decided to retire from calling and we all miss him. That’s okay, he’s still my second-favorite caller! And now, he’s a retired Chic Peep!

Rick Hampton

Last, but certainly not least, of the Chic Peeps is my mentor, Rick Hampton. During Vic’s years with Fine Tune Records, I was frequently amazed with Rick’s “ear” in the studio. Since joining Fine Tune for the Female Vocal Range project, I have spent countless hours in the studio watching and learning about the music production process. With Fine Tune/Gold Wing/Sharpshooter, Rick gave me the opportunity to cut my teeth arranging the music and working with Jimmy Mac on bringing the music to life. He could not have been more supportive when I told him of my desire to start my own adventure with Chic Recordings. His encouragement and support mean the world to me. It’s no wonder he is my second-favorite caller.

Second Favorite Callers

Scott Bennett

Scott Bennett (www.scottbennettcaller.com)

If the second-favorite designation happens when I work with another caller, Scott officially received that status in May of 2015 when he invited me to record background vocals for his release of “We’ve Got Tonight” on Acme Recordings. I happily obliged and it is now one of my favorite singing calls. A successful music producer himself (visit the Acme and Crest Recordings sites to hear his music), Scott has been another mentor as I’ve ventured into the music game. His biggest “assist” was with the creation of Chic’s logo design. He insisted I didn’t need to outsource to make my Chic logo idea a reality and created the template that became the foundation for the final logo. I not only ended up with a logo I love, I learned a new skill in the process. Choosing the right caller/voice for each singing call is part of the fun of producing. Scott’s rockin’ vocal on Chic Recordings’ first release, CHIC1001 – You’re No Good, proved I made the right choice for Chic’s inaugural tune. Shortly after the release I received the following note from a dancer. “I just have to say that in all of my 34 years of Square Dancing I have never heard a song as good as Scott’s version of “You’re no Good.” Scott did such a great job that when it came time to cut our second and third Ronstadt hits, I went right back to him for the vocals, in addition to others since then. Every time, he knocks the vocal out of the park! It’s no wonder he’s my second-favorite caller!

Ken Bower (Retired)

Ken Bower

How can you possibly have a list of second-favorite callers that doesn’t include Ken Bower? You can’t! I have been looking for just the right song for Ken to record, and for Ken’s busy schedule to line up with production deadlines. Everything finally fell into place for CHIC 1035 – Santa’s Reindeer Ride. As an added bonus, Ken was able to record the vocal with his former Chaparral mate, Scott Smith. The two of them sound amazing together, and they captured the essence of this song perfectly! From the moment he heard I was learning to call, Ken’s support was evident. He is always quick to invite me to join him for a tip when we work together. He is always there with a smile and an encouraging word. He has been just as supportive of my venture into music production with Chic Recordings. As a round dance cuer, I have had frequent opportunities to work with Ken. He is a consummate gentlemen, always assisting with equipment, making sure I am safely to my car when the dance is over and bringing me a fresh cup of water during pre-rounds. As if anyone need more proof of Ken’s good heart, he has recently retired from calling in order to care for his lovely wife, Dee. It’s no wonder he’s my second-favorite caller!

Pat Carnathan

Pat Carnathan (www.patcarnathan.com)

After a year and half of looking for the right song, I finally got a vocal from fellow producer and former Shakedown bandmate, Pat Carnathan. I knew CHIC3025 – The Lion Sleeps Tonight was the perfect song for Pat to sing because we played it in the band and the dancers loved it. The positive reviews (and envy) of his amazing falsetto started pouring in from the minute I posted the preview. I often talk about how thankful I am to have had the opportunity to play with the Shakedown band, but I rarely give reasons. In addition to it being some of the most fun I’ve had on stage (and even at practice), I came to know and appreciate the amazing talent and giving person that is Pat Carnathan. He would truly give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. It’s no wonder he is my second-favorite caller.

Wade Driver

Wade Driver (www.wadedriver.com)

The first time I heard the name “Wade Driver” was in the late 70’s at a clogging class. It was the name of a clogging step we were learning (later known as a “double”), and I honestly had no idea that Wade Driver was a real person. Wade is not only real, as the original Owner and Producer of Rhythm Records, he is a legend in the square dance music business. Within minutes of the public announcement of my Chic venture, I received a message of congratulations from Wade, and an offer of assistance. He proved that offer was not just lip service when I reached out to him for advice on the arrangement of CHIC1011 – Home Sweet Home. In addition to pointing me in the right direction for the arrangement, Wade stayed involved through the entire production process, and agreed to record the vocal. Collaborating with Wade on this song was a sometimes surreal, always amazing, learning experience for me. He provided guidance and assistance, while still allowing me to have my voice and make all the final decisions. Sometimes I felt like I had to pinch myself because I was dreaming. Since that time, Wade has become a dear friend, and we have partnered on an Advanced singing call school with of those recordings released on our new joint, Shade Recordings. http://www.shaderecordings.com/ Working closely with Wade is one of the best things to come out of this Chic Adventure. It’s no wonder he’s my second-favorite caller!

Michael Haworth

Michael Haworth (www.michaelhaworth.org)

Mike may not know this, but he is one of my earliest second-favorite callers. In the summer of 2001, I subbed on rounds for the late, great, Bob Malthouse and Michael Haworth was one of the callers for that dance. It was my first opportunity to work with Mike and hear him call, and I was amazed by his ability to harmonize. I commented to Vic on our drive home that Mike sang beautiful harmony notes that I had never heard another caller sing. It only took that one evening to know that in addition to having a beautiful voice, Mike is a harmony master. I had the privilege of studying in Mike’s harmony “dojo” during the two-and-a-half years we played and sang together with the Shakedown square dance band. It is a time and experience I treasure. Mike was the obvious choice to record the lead vocal for Chic Recordings’ second release, CHIC3002 – A Summer Song. The first performance of this singing call was at a Mike Haworth dance in 2013 when Mike and Vic sang it, accompanied only by acoustic guitar. Mike also sang harmony with me on Sharpshooter’s release of “All About That Bass.” It’s no wonder he’s my second-favorite caller!

Kris Jensen

Kris Jensen (www.squarez.com)

Kris was the second caller to step up and give the winning bid for an opportunity to record for Chic. For a second time, we donated an opportunity to record to raise funds for the CALLERLAB Foundation, and Kris took the prize. We found the perfect song for her, and she gave us a GREAT vocal. Additionally, Kris is a great teacher. I had the pleasure of being her student in a caller school and still use much of what I learned from her. It’s no wonder she’s my second-favorite caller!

Hunter Keller

Hunter Keller (www.hunterkeller.com)

It was at the 2007 Callerlab convention in Colorado Springs where I first met a very young and talented caller named Hunter. Thanks to the year he spend living in Southern California, he has become a young and talented caller that I now call, friend. He has been a supporter of Chic Recordings from the beginning, is always willing to lend a hand (literally as you can see here), and frequently assists on the engineering side of things in the Menifee studio. Hunter has been a great source for song ideas, and now has multiple recordings with Chic under is belt. Every single one is a winner. It’s no wonder he’s my second-favorite caller!

Ted Lizotte

Ted Lizotte (www.tedlizotte.com)

I really came to know Ted as a friend when we served as Chair/Vice-Chair of the Music Producer’s committee. In my world, he’s the OGVP (another “if you know you know” situation). Working on that committee, he had my back every single moment (until he had to step down to go on to more important things). Those things include becoming the first caller to serve as Chairman of the CALLERLAB board for three consecutive terms. His leadership has helped launch a new vision for square dancing that we hope will lay the foundation for future generations of dancers. He is also the Owner/Producer of Throwback Tunes and busy with a day job. I was thrilled when he agreed to record the vocal for our one and only (so far) Barry Manilow tune, It’s a Miracle. He has to be great for me to trust him with a Barry tune. It’s no wonder he’s my second-favorite caller!

Carrie Masters (Retired)

Carrie Masters

I was so excited to invite Carrie to share her vocal talents with Chic Recordings. Carrie has been calling for many years and made a name for herself in a field with music that was targeted for the male caller, before technology made it possible for us to adjust the keys for our vocal range. Having entered the calling field after that technology was developed, I just can’t imagine how difficult that must have been. It’s no wonder she’s my second-favorite caller!

Tom Miller

Tom Miller (www.tommiller.info)

I was introduced to the golden voice of Tom Miller shortly after Vic and I were married. Every month a package came in the mail bringing a cassette tape from Hanhurst square dance music service. This tape (later a CD) contained music samples of all the new music being released for square dance callers. I was not calling then, but Vic was always anxious for this package to arrive so he could place his monthly order for new music. More often than not, we would skip the vocal recording and go straight to the music sample for each song. Not if Tom Miller had recorded the vocal! Vic loved Tom’s voice, and I quickly learned to love it too. Being able to hear what Tom did with a song was one of the treats of the subscription service. (It was a disappointing month if Tom had not recorded a vocal.) I knew it was only a matter of time before I found just the right song for Tom to sing, and CHIC1012 – Because was definitely it. I got goosebumps as I listened to the raw vocal he sent from the studio, because it was so beautiful. CHIC1020 – Blue California was Tom’s suggestion for a singer, and there was no way anyone else was going to sing it. It’s another beautiful vocal from that golden voice. It’s no wonder he’s my second-favorite caller!

Susan Morris (Retired)

Susan Morris

Susan Morris (Retired)

Susan was the lucky winner the first time Chic donated a recording opportunity to raise funds for the CALLERLAB Foundation. We had just the right song ready for our lucky winner, and she did a great job. She even took the time to make a trip from Washington to our studio in California for her vocal recording. She has since retired from calling and is greatly missed. But she’s still my second-favorite caller!

Tony Oxendine

Tony Oxendine (www.tonyoxendine.com)

I first met Tony at the Bakersfield Fiesta in March of 1999. Vic and I were recently engaged and we decided to drive up for the day to dance at the Fiesta. I have to admit that as a fairly new dancer, I had no idea who Tony was when Vic introduced us. I have since learned that Tony is FAMOUS and as the owner of Royal Records, pretty much square dance “Royal-ty” in the music business. Tony has been extremely supportive of my Chic endeavors and offered advice and encouragement along the way. When I shared Chic’s version of “(Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher & Higher” with Tony, prior to its release, he asked if he could sing it at the Indio festival. I readily agreed and captured this magic moment on video. Watching Tony sing “my” song, while a giant floor packed with dancers grooved to the music literally brought tears to my eyes. CHIC1008 – ‘Til There Was You is a beautiful song that demanded a beautiful voice. Tony was the perfect choice and I was so thrilled when he accepted my invitation. The vocal he recorded surpassed my highest expectations. He even took the time during the recording session to take pictures and send them to me for Chic’s Facebook page. Since then, he has recording even more songs for Chic, and become another dear friend. It’s no wonder he is my second-favorite caller!

Jack Pladdys

Jack Pladdys (www.jackpladdys.com)

Jack is another great caller who has been a great supporter of Chic Recordings from the beginning. As the programmer of the National Convention in Cincinnati, he was the first to give me the opportunity to call with the Ghost Riders, and I’ll always be grateful for that! Jack was also a great mentor for me as I began my pursuit to be a CALLERLAB Accredited Caller Coach. I’m grateful that I happened to be sitting next to Tony when Jack sent him a link to a song he wanted to record. It turned out to be a great arrangement of a song I had been considering for Chic, so Tony graciously let me steal the song…and Jack! Jack did an amazing job on the vocal and promotes for Chic everywhere he goes. It’s no wonder he’s my second-favorite caller!

Johnny Preston

Johnny Preston (johnpresto@yahoo.com)

I first danced to Johnny Preston in 1998 at a local dance in Riverside, CA. The number of dancers who packed the hall that evening was an indication that Johnny was a great caller. I was too new of a dancer at the time to appreciate his command of choreography, but I certainly recognized the fact that he had a beautiful voice. Years later, as a more seasoned dancer (and a fairly new caller), I have enjoyed some fascinating conversations with Johnny about choreography. He was the first to bring CHIC1014 – Whatever Lola Wants to my attention, and I was so happy when he agreed to record the male vocal. He even went the extra mile and recorded the tune in character, complete with accent. It’s no wonder he’s my second-favorite caller.

Jet Roberts

Jet Roberts (www.jetroberts.com)

Jet is another caller who has been my second-favorite for many years. When I returned to square dancing in the late 90’s, we attended a Jet Roberts dance near downtown Riverside. David and Dawn Mee assured me I was in for a treat and they were right. I was too new of a dancer to truly appreciate the way that Jet controlled the floor and the dance, but in the years since I have come to appreciate that talent. As we mixed the vocal to the music, even Jimmy Mac (Chic’s engineer) commented on Jet’s tone, pitch and amazing feel for rhythm. Jet delivered all of that in spades for CHIC1004 – It Feels Good. On top of that, he has a wife who is a caller too! (Hey, Sylvia!) It’s no wonder he’s my second-favorite caller!

Sylvia Roberts

I was anxious to find just the right song for Sylvia Roberts to record for Chic and when I decided to do CHIC2015 – For What It’s Worth, I knew I had succeeded. Sylvia and I were both at the National Convention in Des Moines, IA (sans husbands), and I really enjoyed the time we spent laughing and getting to know each other better. No other female caller I know “gets” the challenges associated with trying to break into the calling business when your spouse is already an established caller. While it certainly opens a few doors, it can also create roadblocks. While it’s great to have someone you love and trust who can offer constructive feedback, sometimes you just need them to be there and not say a word. One of my favorite moments at Nationals was watching Sylvia get “wired for sound” to be taped for a local news program. She had zero notice that she was the lucky one chosen and she handled it like a pro. It’s no wonder she’s my second-favorite caller!

Charlie Robertson

I first met Charlie Robertson in 1998 when I attended a local dance with my (had to be bribed to dance with mom) 13-year-old son. Kyle (my son) was showing a minor interest in learning to call, and he approached Charlie to ask him for some pointers. Charlie couldn’t have been more kind, and even took to the time to send a couple of records to Kyle a few weeks later. Moms never forget when people are nice to their children, and it was a great first impression. CHIC1026 – Thank You for Being a Friend was just the right song for Charlie to sing, and we’ve been blessed for him to record additional tunes as well. I am so grateful that over the years he has become such a good friend. Just a month ago, I mentioned to Charlie that I was concerned about having to dance on carpet at a fundraising dance I was organizing. Without missing a beat, Charlie offered to haul their 1200 sq ft of Swiss Trax floor to Mesa, AZ for the dance. And haul it, they did! Thanks to their generosity, 25+ squares of dancers had a great floor for dancing, and we raised close to $2300.00 in one evening. It’s no wonder he’s my second-favorite caller!

Justin Russell

Justin Russell (justinrus@gmail.com)

“The One Where Justin gets Added as Second-Favorite.” That’s what we’re going to call this episode (I mean paragraph). Justin is another young and talented caller that I first encountered at the 2007 CALLERLAB convention in Colorado Springs. Other than the fact that he was a very young face in the business, I didn’t know much about Justin. The first time I heard him sing was at a talent show at the 2014 Reno/Sparks convention, and I was duly impressed. Since then, I have heard him call many times and had been looking for the right song so he could record for Chic. Turns out, I found two! He has recorded both “Similau” and “Light the Legend (A song for Chanukah).” He did an amazing job on both, and they are very different styles, but that’s kind of a moo point. (If you know, you know. If not, then you can just “know they know we know they know.” If you haven’t figured it out yet, Justin is a fellow “Friends” freak. It’s no wonder he’s my second-favorite caller!

Renee Ruud

Renee’ Ruud (sarahwe@aol.com)

I first heard Renee’ Ruud call/sing on some videos her husband posted. She was using some of the female vocal project music I had recorded on Fine Tune, and she sounded great! She later joined that project and has released three vocals herself on Fine Tune/Sharpshooter Records. She has a beautiful, Karen Carpenter-esque, kind of voice, and I knew it was exactly right for CHIC 2031 – Fallen. When she sent me her vocal track, it was every bit as good as I had imagined! I am so glad she agreed to do this vocal. With her voice, it’s no wonder she’s my second-favorite caller!

Mike Seastrom

Mike Seastrom (https://mikeseastrom.com)

Mike is another caller that could not possibly be left off the second-favorite list! He’s on staff with Rhythm Records, but we finally managed to get a few guest vocals done with him. Every single time he comes in over-prepared and knocks it out of the park. It was a double thrill for me to have Mike and Vic record one together, and while they were in the studio, they provided backup vocals for my track. Mike is a consummate professional, is a true leader, and knows how to please any floor of dancers he meets. He and his wife, Lisa, have been a great support of Chic Recordings since day one. It’s no wonder he’s my second-favorite caller!

Elmer Sheffield

Elmer Sheffield (www.squaredancesites.com/elmer_sheffield)

I was so thrilled when Elmer agreed to record the vocal for CHIC1021 – Ugly Christmas Sweater. He is truly a legend in the world of square dance music production. (I knew this long before I learned to call. Vic has close to 200 ESP records filed and stored in the garage. I manually handled each and every one when we digitized, catalogued, and created a database for all of Vic’s records shortly after we got married.) In addition to producing some of the best music in the business, Elmer has also recorded more singing calls than any other caller. There is a lot more I could add to the list of Elmer’s credentials, but you can read that in his bio. What I want to share is something I witnessed at a Callerlab Convention. I was impressed as he took such good care of his wife, Margie, who was in a wheelchair. I cannot remember the specifics, but I was passing by as he declined an offer to go hang with the guys because he needed to get her up to the room for some rest. It was a simple, passing moment, but the tender way he put her needs ahead of his own touched my heart and told me everything I needed to know about the kind of man that Elmer is. Since then, he continued to put her first until he lost her to illness. In February of 2025, we lost this hero and icon of the square dance community as he left this world to reunite with Margie. Elmer will forever remain my second-favorite caller!

Kristy Woods

Kristy Woods (https://kw.dance/)

Kristy is a caller I had mostly seen on YouTube videos posted by others. It was obvious to me that she had a great voice and loved to harmonize. I finally got the chance to meet her at a National Convention and hear her sing “live.” When she finished, I wasted no time before asking if she’d like to record a guest vocal. We provided a couple of song choices and she absolutely picked the right one for her! She took “455 Rocket” and knocked it out of the park! It’s no wonder she’s my second-favorite caller!