Article published August 27, 2000
Known locally as Phillip Sinclair, he emerged from a stretch limousine at the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium on the arm of his girlfriend, Sharon.
The aspiring singer became a little nervous and had to remind detention officers, who were subbing as roadies, to keep the other girls back so he and Sharon could get in the building safely. Phillip, the 21-year-old son of Phillip and Vicki Sinclair, is a graduate of the McCarthy/Teszler School for special needs students. His father, who waited with him backstage, said Phillip had been interested in Elvis and his music for at least 10 years. His dream has been to play at the auditorium as Elvis. And as his moment in the spotlight approached, he remained calm but excited. Mike McKee and Allen Freeman, captains at the Spartanburg County Detention Center, served as personal bodyguards. But Phillip, who sometimes lapsed into the role of being his own manager, kept telling them to have their people in place as show time approached. McKee said Phillip participated in last year's fundraisers sponsored by the detention center. Proceeds go to the Special Olympics. As part of this year's fundraiser, Phillip opened for the Southern Gospel Music show Saturday night, part of an all-day event. Phillip dived into his part eagerly. He swayed, pointed, gyrated during his three songs as two guards stationed nearby held the screaming audience back several times. A little surprised, but not upstaged by the audience participation, Philip watched closely and continued to lip sync “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” Then he knelt, wiped his brow, gave a big smile and received a standing ovation before giving up his few minutes of fame. His next wish was that it could last forever.
Janet Spencer can be reached at janet.spencer@shj.com or 582-4511, Ext. 7222.