'I'M YOUR NEW GAY BEST FRIEND.' Tyler Baumgart (a.k.a. TeawhYB) is known throughout the Chippewa Valley for his great music and outgoing personality. But beyond the stage and tunes in your earbuds and headphones, he's a big supporter of social justice, equity, public safety, and the dance floor at Scooter's.

Tyler Baumgart is known across the Chippewa Valley by his stage name “TeawhYB.” Why? Because this alt-hip-pop artist connects divergent communities through good vibes, compassion, and – perhaps most importantly – his music. Beyond the stage, Baumgart is a big supporter of the arts, social justice and equity, and public safety – and also deep fried foods. “I’m your new gay best friend,” he says.

Death bed, one meal from a local restaurant, what would it be?

Mel Burger, Waffle Fries, Fried Mushrooms, and a side of ranch from Court’n House.

Describe a rewarding experience you’ve had in the Chippewa Valley.

A few years back, Ivy Media did a music video for a song of mine called “Saturday,” and we teamed up with the choir class at North High School. The video was featured on WQOW News 18, and Justin Esterly was dancing along. Naturally, Shannon and Katie from the News Team told Justin he had “dad dance moves.” So I asked if I could come on the set to show them all the Bob Ross Dance. Long story short, they let me in and I did the Bob Ross Dance on the weather screen. Top 10 life moment for sure.

Favorite local song?

Cait McGarvey  – “Don’t Worry Baby.”

What place in town considers you a regular?

I don’t go out much, but Scooter’s. Specifically, the dance floor.

What’s your passion?

Such a loaded question. (My) biggest passions are creating and performing music. Sometimes I feel like I don’t fit in with my surroundings, but I’ve definitely discovered something through music. There’s nothing more fulfilling than delivering an energetic set where people are dancing, laughing, and having fun. My goal is always to help people forget the stresses in life, even just temporarily. Life is too short not to enjoy it.

What frustrates you about Eau Claire?

There’s a lack of brunch places that serve alcohol. We need more. Ideal Sunday would be going to (insert new brunch restaurant) and getting a Bloody Mary with my meal and who knows? Maybe it’s a drag brunch and we level up big time.

What is your favorite piece of local trivia?

You can have up to five chickens living on your property in Eau Claire.

Rock Fest or Country Fest?

Eaux Claires. (If I had to choose though: Country Fest though I respect the Snoop Dogg booking by Rock Fest.)

What do you think the Chippewa Valley really needs?

A late night food spot on Barstow. Water Street is definitely winning that game. For real, can we get a taco truck at least? Fried chicken sandwich joint? Again, this is the ideal Eau Claire.