Felita, I heard you have a sweet set of pipes. What did you do before you began singing for the Air Force?

I was a music teacher at a Catholic elementary school in Ohio, and I loved it. But I wanted to do a little more for myself as a performer. It was either become a nun or do this.

Monastery or military, eh? What’s your favorite teaching memory?

When I taught music, I really wanted the kids involved, so we incorporated popular music into the program. The kids really enjoyed it. At our end-of-the-year concert, some sang solos, and others were playing instruments. The parents were amazed and gave us a standing ovation at the end. The school priest, who was watching with a close eye, came up to me at the end of the concert and told me he adored it and wanted more; but shortly after that, I had to tell him I was leaving for the military. He was crushed.

Why the Air Force?

Two reasons. I needed a job, and my favorite color is blue.

What are your musical influences?

Gospel music, some pop music and Broadway.

Who are the top voices in the industry?

I will always say Whitney Houston is one of the greatest modern voices.

Mariah?

She is off the chain; especially for the music she does. And she can still do it. So can Bonnie Raitt. She is an example of someone whose legend will last forever. The real legends are the ones who find their niche and enjoy longevity.

How does that equate for you?

In the Air Force, when I am singing, I am required to do everyone’s music, so I don’t have a distinct niche per se. I am a chameleon of music, so I must make sure to focus and get into every song to convince the audience that I am the original performer.

How do you know when you succeed?

The audience will tell me. When I was singing Alicia Keys’ “No One” at Yokota Middle School, I knew I succeeded when the whole auditorium stood up and started singing along with me.

Do you perform anywhere besides for the Air Force?

I do. I perform at Japanese weddings and other functions. It is an honor and blessing to be part of their special days. And I love Japanese food.

So can a musician make a good living in Japan?

Yes. American musicians are actually sought out here, so they can make good money, which is the opposite of how it is in the States.

Please tell us about your daughter?

Melina is a wonderful 6 and tells me she wants to be a singer or caregiver. I always tell her, “I love you and I think you are the most beautiful girl in the world, but I am your mother. So pay attention, follow directions, and ALWAYS use your manners.”

What do you want to do after retiring from the military, Felita?

If I find the right person on the outside, I want to take my shot at recording music.

Staff Sgt. Felita Rowe

Age: 40

Location:Yokota Air Base, JapanClaim to fame:Vocalist and single working mother of one.

Pacific readers: Know someone whose accomplishments, talents, job, hobby, volunteer work, awards or good deeds qualify them for 15 minutes of fame? How about someone whose claim to glory is a bit out of the ordinary — even, dare we say, oddball? Call Paul Newell at Stars and Stripes with the person’s name and contact information at DSN 229-3158 or e-mail him at: newellp@pstripes.osd.mil.