David Tolley on Johnny Carson began as simply another member of the crowd. However, a last-minute guest cancellation provided him with the chance to showcase his extraordinary musical abilities. And his spontaneous piano play wowed Johnny and the whole audience!
Jonny Carson had planned for a famous pianist to play at the event. But he got himself into a pickle. The pianist had been contacted only hours before the live performance to say he wouldn’t be able to play due to an accident involving his fingers and a vehicle door.
Johnny did not let this deter him from performing live. After all, the show must go on. Johnny chose to think outside the box and inform the audience about the problem. He reasoned that one of the audience members would have to take lessons at some point. The last-ditch effort to preserve the program paid off in an unexpected manner.
David Tolley, dressed in a Nike t-shirt, jeans, and flip-flops, raised his hand when Johnny Carson surveyed the audience for pianists. Johnny wasn’t sure if David understood what he was doing or if he had the necessary expertise, yet David took a risk regardless. He even cracked jokes. David would have dressed better if he had known he would be on TV.
Taking a lead from Johnny, David set out to wow and had fun displaying his ability with a few cheeky smiles and antics, like attempting to move the tails of a tuxedo before sitting down to surprise the crowd. What occurred next was incredible.
David sang ‘Memory’ from “Cats” while winking and grinning at the crowd since no one anticipated him to play so brilliantly. David smiled and pointed to the keys just as the concert looked to be coming to a conclusion. As he finished his act, he received praise and a few chuckles from the crowd.
It’s remarkable how God occasionally leads our paths in life. One day you’re in the crowd, and the next you’re on stage, exhibiting the talents God has given you and displaying his glory. Congratulations, David! Excellent work.
