Motor City reality (TV) rockers

Brandon Calhoon (Smokin’ Moses): "Rock Star: INXS"

While all music reality TV shows are maligned by serious musos who believe that the format is ripping the soul out of what they hold dear, “Rock Star: INXS” was even more slated than the rest due to the fact the prize for the winner was to replace the deceased legend Michael Hutchence from the chart-topping Australian rock band INXS.

Detroit’s own Brandon Calhoon was a losing finalist in this abomination of a competition, though he made some friends along the way thanks to his impressive pipes and marketable good looks. He can now be found in the Motor City “supergroup” Smokin’ Moses alongside Eliot Moses (Universal Temple of Divine Power) and Gary Rasmussen (The Up, Sonic’s Rendezvous Band). The eventual “Rock Star: INXS” winner, JD Fortune, recorded a largely overlooked album with the rock titans. And hostess Brooke Burke, mighty fine to look at, is shakin’ it on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars.” Check out Smokin Moses when they play Callahan's on Nov. 9.