Goodbye Earl

On October 25, 2024, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay captivated the audience at Ruth Eckerd Hall’s Margarete Heye Great Room in Clearwater, Florida, with a bold and dynamic performance of the Dixie Chicks’ hit “Goodbye Earl.” This lively number was featured as part of their concert *The Good, the Bad, and the Gay*, an evening that explored the many facets of LGBTQ+ identity through music, humor, and heartfelt performances.

The performance of “Goodbye Earl” was a standout moment in the show, with PJ Yarosh taking the lead in the song’s signature sassy, rebellious spirit. Yarosh’s commanding stage presence and dynamic vocal delivery captured the defiant tone of the song, which tells the story of two women who take matters into their own hands after dealing with an abusive partner. Joined by a talented ensemble of fellow chorus members — Mike Fortin, Jr., Will Hession, Daniel Lastorino, John Shirley, Brooke Byrington, and Vic Omila — the performance brought a combination of humor and empowerment to the stage, with each singer contributing their own unique energy to the number.

“Goodbye Earl” was an apt choice for the evening, which sought to celebrate both the humorous and the serious aspects of life within the LGBTQ+ community. The song’s themes of friendship, strength, and standing up against injustice resonated strongly with the concert's overarching message of resilience and unity. The chorus's bold, unapologetic delivery had the audience laughing, clapping, and cheering in approval.

Held in the intimate setting of the Margarete Heye Great Room, *The Good, the Bad, and the Gay* was a celebration of diversity, strength, and the power of music to bring people together. The performance of “Goodbye Earl” was a reminder of the importance of friendship and solidarity, with the chorus channeling the song’s empowerment into a powerful and entertaining moment.