KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A singer who got her start at Kauffman Stadium 31 years ago is returning to sing the national anthem Friday.
Stephanie Varone first sang the Star-Spangled Banner at Kauffman as a teenager in 1987. Since then, she has started a band and sung at stadiums across the country including Wrigley Field and Fenway Park.
"The first time back as an adult will be a different experience. It will be equally as exciting but in a different way, Varone said.
Her goal was always to be a professional singer. Now she earns money singing in a cover band while working at Burwood Group in Minneapolis.
All these years later she still gets butterflies.
"Right when I walk out there I'm like 'oh,' but then I'm just like really happy, I feel very happy that I'm there. And I feel more excited than anything. After the first couple of notes I'm good," she said.
While in town this weekend, Varone will also go to her high school reunion.
Her advice to others wishing to start a singing career is to not wait for anything to fall into your lap. She sent demo tapes to studios as a 16-year-old and says that drive and motivation paved her road to success.
The Royals play the Indians at 7:15 p.m. Friday.
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