Couple's Gas Station Karaoke Goes Viral, Still Married 25 Years
Will and Monifa Sims stopped for gas in 2013 and ended up singing on The Tonight Show after nailing impromptu karaoke at a Burbank gas station. Twelve years later, they're celebrating 25 years of marriage and the viral moment that made millions smile.
When Will Sims started pumping gas in Burbank, California, in 2013, he had no idea that humming a few bars would change his life forever.
A tiny TV screen above the pump suddenly spoke directly to him. It was The Tonight Show with Jay Leno's "Pumpcast News" prank, where fake newscaster Jack Rafferty offers free gas in exchange for karaoke performances.
Will didn't hesitate for a second. When asked if he needed the lyrics to Bon Jovi's "Livin' on a Prayer," he confidently answered, "No, I know 'em, baby."
He delivered every note perfectly, hitting the falsetto parts with pure joy. Other customers gathered around to watch, but the real surprise came when his wife Monifa joined in from the passenger seat.
Monifa chose "Sweet Dreams" by the Eurythmics and absolutely crushed it. Will jumped in on the chorus, and together they created magic at pump 16.
The best part? They had no idea they were about to appear on national television. When the host revealed they'd be on The Tonight Show, they both screamed with delight.
Their Tonight Show appearance was just as perfect. With a full band backing them up, they performed "Livin' on a Prayer" as a duet, proving their gas station performance was no fluke.
Sunny's Take
The video still brings joy to millions today. One YouTube commenter wrote, "I come back to this video every so often for the past few years. Always puts a smile on my face."
Monifa recently shared with Upworthy that the couple is celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary this year. They kicked off the celebration with a trip to Thailand and Bali.
She now hosts on QVC and wrote a cookbook called Life in Full Flavor. Will works bicoastal between their home and Los Angeles.
The couple is still creating content together and keeping their karaoke game strong. "We sing a little bit of everything to keep it spicy," Monifa says.
What started as a random Wednesday in Burbank became a testament to saying yes to joy, staying playful together, and never taking life too seriously.
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Based on reporting by Upworthy
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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