Skid Row Karaoke

Pastor Tony Stallworth and his wife, Lucy, do a duet during karaoke night at the Central City Community Church of the Nazarene on skid row in Los Angeles on July 11, 2012. Lucy is the ongoing DJ who plays people’s requests and Pastor Tony is the master of ceremonies. For the past 15 years the Stallworths have held a karaoke party every Wednesday night at their church for people living on the streets of skid row or those living in shelters and transitional housing. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Oct. 14, 2012 6:24 PM PT

Every Wednesday is karaoke night at a storefront church in Skid Row. The stars of the evening come from the neighborhood’s hotels, shelters and sidewalks. Performances are ragged, raw and often inspired. On some nights you won’t find a more electric room in Los Angeles, and the crowd bears witness to a brand of musical epiphany seldom seen at a cutting-edge Echo Park club or the stage of the Hollywood Bowl.

Robert Verdine, 61, better known as “Gentleman Roberts,” sings “It’s All in the Game” during karaoke night at the Central City Community Church of the Nazarene. (Genaro Molina/ Los Angeles Times)

Jonathan James Brown, 38, better known as “cowboy,” sings “Ride Like the Wind.” (Genaro Molina/ Los Angeles Times)

Linda Harris, left, belts out a tune to the appreciation of Freddie “Rambo” Burks. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Spectators get on their feet and dance while a performer, off camera, sings. (Genaro Molina/ Los Angeles Times)

Pastor Tony Stallworth, right, prays over his congregation. (Genaro Molina/ Los Angeles Times)

Freddie “Rambo” Burks finishes singing James Brown’s “I Got You (I Feel Good)” while a member of the audience applauds and Valerie L. Hayden, right, watches. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)