Music isn’t only in singer David McClellan’s voice – it’s in his soul. “I always liked to sing,” he said, recalling that in the fifth grade, his teacher would ask him to sing songs when the students needed a break between lessons.

After deciding to switch majors during college, he considered making a career out of his hobby. “I said to myself, ‘I want to see if I can sing,’” McClellan said. When one of his teachers gave him free rein – “he let me sing what I wanted to sing” – a lifelong adventure was begun.

Whether performing the warm and bright “I Talk to the Trees” or the wistfully sweet “Unchained Melody,” McClellan enjoys his work. His mellifluous voice is characterized by a rich vibrato and remarkably wide range – about three octaves. “I like to sing songs, put a little flair into it, and show variety.”

As an entertainer for hire, McClellan has performed at events ranging from weddings to banquets, private parties to karaoke nights. He recently provided the entertainment at the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce’s Citizen and Business of the Year award ceremony, and has sung the national anthem at two Raiders games.

He also performs regularly at local retirement communities, singing classic oldies that awaken fond memories. Though the songs are infused by his own style, he stays true to the originals. “I want the people, if they’ve heard the song before, to be able to recognize it,” he said. “They receive me very well.”

McClellan doesn’t consider himself a replica of any one singer, but mentioned Frank Sinatra, Robert Goulet and Al Martino as among his many inspirations. He honors requests for such favorites as “How Do You Keep the Music Playing?” and “Unchained Melody,” which are among his personal favorites. He also enjoys Spanish music, and receives numerous requests for “La Bamba.”

“I try to sing a whole spectrum of songs,” he said. “I love to listen to good singers, no matter the genre.” His love of variety influences his performances; when he’s unfamiliar with a requested song, he makes a point of learning for it for future use.

“My true love is musical theater,” said McClellan. “I have vast experience in doing Broadway shows.” He toured Japan as a performer in “The Fantasticks,” and has played roles in “Camelot,” “My Fair Lady,” “Kiss Me, Kate” and “The Sound of Music.” Another of his most-requested songs is “Music of the Night” from “The Phantom of the Opera.” His theatrical experience carries over to his vocal performances; audiences are moved by his dramatic style and presence.

McClellan describes his repertoire as “most anything that, when you leave the place, you might be humming the tune.” He appreciates the powerful impact his music makes on listeners, as well as himself. “It keeps me alive,” he said, and he hopes his audiences find similar rejuvenation: “Hopefully, it brings back good memories.”

David McClellan is available to perform at events throughout the area. Call 925-852-7796 or e-mail david-mcclellan@att.net.