Although The Steel Hammer didn't win the Missed Connection film contest hosted by Akron Film, we had fun bringing him to life. We were impressed by the caliber of the films that won and we're grateful to have talented independent filmmakers in our community. We couldn't have done it without the support and participation of our good friends and family. Thank you for your enthusiasm and willingness to do something different. We'll be back next year better than ever.

Steel Hammer Makes Akron the First Stop on His Rust Belt Karaoke Tour

Proving once again that he is a karaoke machine, The Steel Hammer will take the stage in several Akron, Ohio bars, restaurants and coffee shops on Thursday evening, April 28th to kick-off the Rust Belt Karaoke Tour.

When asked why Akron, The Steel Hammer replied, "It's the fans, baby." When the news spread throughout bars and coffee shops in downtown Akron, women literally melted from excitement.

While in Akron, Hammer also plans to make a quick stop at the Akron Art Museum to check out the preview of the The Steel Hammer feature film. When asked if the movie is the real reason he chose to begin his tour in Akron, Steel Hammer declined to comment.

Karaoke Kings to Share Center Stage at 2011 Tri-State Championship

Reigning Tri-State Karaoke King, Steel Hammer will take the stage in June for a rare performance with friend and rival London Pipes, the 2009 Tri-State Karaoke King.

Hammer and Pipes are considered the upper echelon of karaoke singers on the circuit tour. Between the pair, they have taken every title in the tri-state area for the past two years. Hammer came out of nowhere in late 2009, giving Pipes a run for his money at every turn. He finally knocked Pipes off his throne to sweep the 2010 Tri-State Karaoke Championship in Youngstown.

Hammer and Pipes will take the stage together at the 2011 Tri-State Karaoke Championship before going head-to-head in an all-out karaoke brawl. With the championship competition taking place at Howlers, Hammer and Pipes' hometown stage in Pittsburgh, the main event promises to be very special - and brutal. Neither will comment about the play lists for their individual or combined performances.