'Back in the Day' With 'Bachelor Bob

Long before he became America's sweetheart as "Bachelor Bob," Ferndale Mortgage Broker Bob Guiney was known around these parts as the voice of the East Lansing-based band Fat Amy. His endeavors on the Michigan music scene yielded a pair of fine independent albums- 1995's "Ice Cream Headache" and "Five-Way Switch" in 1997.

Fat Amy followed the lead of The Verve Pipe, playing bars coast to coast (Michigan, that is) and gaining a devoted following. Yikes! Records even issued a Lansing area band compilation album titled "In The Be-Guinea" as a play on words association to Guiney.

Possessing the same engaging personality that endeared him to many hearts in 2003. Guiney's charm was reflected in his passionate lyrics conveyed through Fat Amy's music. His lyrical prose helped the band gain a deal with MCA Publishing, but when that fell through in 1999 Guiney made a career move and Fat Amy split up.

Interestingly enough, prior to following his musical dreams, Guiney attended Michigan State University and was a quarterback on the 1990 Spartan football team (QB, #14, Bob Guiney, Fr. 6-1, 209, Riverview, MI, Riverview Community High School).

Guiney's newfound fame as reality TV's shining star (17 million viewers can't be wrong) has granted him the opportunity to return to the studio and record a new album under his name. Bob Guiney's "3 Sides" will soon be released to enlighten those unaware of Guiney's true talent.

For those of us aware of this invigorating spirit, I can attest that Bobby is just as special a person as portrayed in front of the cameras - a genuine, friendly and nice individual who would go out of his way to bring a smile to others. He has used his recent time in the limelight to his advantage and proven that one can do so much more in life if given a second chance.

We can all learn from his devotion and wish him the best of luck. Tune in when "Bachelor Bob" narrows the field and awards the final rose throughout November on ABC-TV Wednesdays at 9:00 p.m.

It would be only fitting if he were to propose in song.