Since winning talent program “Stars in Their Eyes” in 2000, Gary Mullen has been belting out legendary rock band Queen’s greatest hits at live tribute concert, One Night of Queen. He talks to Chin Hui Wen about talent competitions, living under the shadow of Freddie Mercury and why the rock and roll lifestyle is a myth.

Talent shows: yes or no?
The old way of being spotted by talent scouts is gone. Competitions like the “Idol” series bring a host of great singers and performers into the public eye. They might not have gotten a break anywhere else.

Your concert draws huge crowds. Does it ever get overwhelming?
I tend to feed off the energy of a crowd. If they are rocking, it gives me a huge adrenaline rush. If they are more reserved, I work harder to get them rocking.

Is it challenging to perform songs by Freddie Mercury?
I don’t feel the difference. Whether I record one of my own songs or sing onstage, I still sound like me even though the audience sees me as Freddie Mercury.

Should we envy your rock and roll lifestyle?
These days, it’s a bit of a myth. Because touring is so grueling, I look after myself on the road and off. I have to be 100 percent [for the show] every night. If I partied like a rock star, I wouldn’t be able to keep my performance up. The most “rock and roll” thing I do after a show is to look for somewhere to eat.

Gary Mullen performs One Night of Queen on June 21-23, 7:30pm; June 24, 5pm at the Marina Bay Sands.

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