Minot Air Force Base saw its fair share of high notes, big laughs, and friendly rivalry as the Karaoke Battle Finale took over Rockers Bar & Grill, proving once again that the installation is packed with hidden talent.
The high-energy finale featured a head-to-head showdown between the 5th Bomb Wing Warbirds and the 91st Missile Wing Bullys, drawing Airmen, spouses, and civilian employees from across the base. Those who missed the event missed more than just impressive vocals, there were prizes, crowd-favorite performances, and music trivia spanning classic hits, 2000s throwbacks, Disney favorites, and hip-hop.
While many in attendance hoped to see Chief Sharp, Command Chief of the 5th Bomb Wing, and Chief Thomas, Command Chief of the 91st Missile Wing, take the stage themselves, the two instead served as judges for the night. Even without their vocal debut, their presence added excitement and friendly competition to the event.
Karaoke at Rockers may not be new, but its popularity has soared over the past year, and this finale showed exactly why. Competitors stepped out of their comfort zones to bring personal stories and favorite songs to the stage.
Timothy Gates from the 5th Security Forces Squadron chose the R&B classic “If I Ever Fall in Love” by Shai, a song rooted in childhood memories. Gates shared that he grew up listening to old-school music with his parents and had only attended karaoke the week before. “I usually only sing in my shower or in my room,” he admitted, making his performance even more impressive.
Representing the 91st Missile Security Forces Squadron, Christian Hardy brought country vibes to the competition with “Alright” by Darius Rucker. Introduced to country music later in life, Hardy summed up his song choice simply: he loves “country music, beer, Darius Rucker, and our country.”
The night ultimately belonged to Technical Sergeant Tessie Odhiambo of the 5th Force Support Squadron, who claimed the top spot in the finale and $500. What began as a fun night out turned into an unforgettable victory. TSgt Odhiambo shared that she never expected to reach the finals, let alone win. Having sung since childhood on the choir team and discovered karaoke while stationed in Korea, she said the experience meant more than she imagined.
Despite nerves and moments of self-doubt, Odhiambo credited her success to the support of her family, FSS teammates, and Chief Sharp. “I just wanted to have fun and bring energy,” she shared, adding her gratitude for everyone who pushed her to keep showing up and believe in herself.
For those inspired by the performances or simply looking for a fun night out Rockers Bar & Grill is keeping the music going. Karaoke Nights return on February 20 and March 20, offering another chance to showcase talent, cheer on friends, or just escape the dorms or home for a night of laughs and music. You might be surprised by just how much talent is hiding right here on Minot AFB and Rockers Bar & Grill is the place to be.
