Miguel Esparza, the Spanish language radio play-by-play announcer for WRTO 1200 AM, is known for his booming voice and ability to connect with Hispanic and Latino fans across Chicago’s pro sports teams. But few know that on karaoke night, he becomes "Miguelvis," belting out Elvis Presley classics with a curled lip and swiveling hips.
A Life in Sports Broadcasting
As a Humboldt Park native, Esparza’s journey to the top of the broadcasting world was not an easy one. He landed his first job through a combination of good luck, good timing, and persistence, and has since become the radio voice of the Chicago Bulls, Chicago Blackhawks, and Chicago Cubs. His rich and resonant voice commands the airwaves on all-Spanish WRTO-Radio, connecting with fans who make up the city’s fastest-growing ethnic population.
A Different Side of Esparza
But it was not always his dream to be a sports announcer. Esparza’s true passion was to be an Elvis tribute artist. "That was my ultimate," he said. "I wanted to sing. I wanted to perform." And on a typical Friday night at Louie’s pub in Wicker Park, he gets to do just that, transforming into "Miguelvis" as he sings spot-on renditions of "Kentucky Rain" and "My Way."
A Night of Karaoke
As Miguelvis, Esparza’s singing takes the spotlight and stuns the audience. "It was incredible," said Alex Vandeloo, a patron at the pub. "I was not expecting that." But for Esparza, it’s all about the performance. "At the end of the day, I’m an entertainer," he said. "I have to make it to where somebody wants to listen to my broadcast. Then it’s the same deal, I have to make sure I sing the right way and perform the right way, so somebody says, ‘I want to hear another song from this guy, right?’"
A Persevering Personality
For his broadcast teammates, Esparza’s dedication to his craft is an inspiration. "He’s really hard to keep up with," said Jorge Moreno, a producer and announcer who works alongside Esparza. "I only do two sports – the Cubs and the Blackhawks, but he does the Bulls, and college football, and it’s really, really admirable." Elio Benitez, another broadcast partner, agrees, citing Esparza’s intense preparation and ability to keep all the different rosters and rules straight.
Conclusion
Miguel Esparza is a man of many talents, from sports broadcasting to karaoke. As "Miguelvis," he shines in the spotlight, belting out Elvis classics with ease. But no matter the performance, Esparza’s dedication to his craft and his passion for entertaining remain unwavering. And for fans across Chicago, he is a beloved fixture in the world of sports and beyond.
FAQs
- What is Miguel Esparza’s role in sports broadcasting?
Miguel Esparza is the Spanish language radio play-by-play announcer for WRTO 1200 AM, covering the Chicago Bulls, Chicago Blackhawks, and Chicago Cubs. - What is Miguel’s true passion?
Miguel’s true passion is to be an Elvis tribute artist, and he often performs as "Miguelvis" on karaoke nights. - How does Miguel prepare for his broadcasts?
Miguel prepares intensively, keeping all the different rosters and rules straight, and is known for his ability to adapt to different sports and teams.
