A self-described “periodontist by day and lead singer of Rexford by night. 2012 Super Top Dog Winner of Amateur Night at the Apollo,” via @hashpotatoes, New York City dentist Dr. Matthew Hashimoto is a crowd pleaser.

The Honolulu, Hawaii native made his debut at Harlem’s Apollo Theater two years ago and

Dr. Matthew Hashimoto performs at the Apollo in 2012. Photo courtesy https://instagram.com/fromrexford and https://www.rexfordmusic.com

Dr. Matthew Hashimoto performs at the Apollo in 2012. (Photo courtesy https://instagram.com/fromrexford)

was recently interviewed during CBS Sunday Morning @CBSSunday tribute to the 80th anniversary of the celebrated venue.

Dr. Hashimoto told cbsnews.com, “And after winning, and realizing that I’m part of this history at the Apollo, and seeing the other names that are on that list — I still can’t believe that it happened,” he said.

Apollo crowds are encouraged to express their opinion, which is measured by a meter over the stage. The annual “Amateur” champions, Dr. Matthew Hashimoto included, earn a $10,000 check for their efforts.

He’s not abandoning dentistry, though, especially when he can enjoy the best of both worlds. “And actually I do sing sometimes when I’m working with patients!” he told cbsnews.com.

For the full story, go to: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/amateur-night-at-the-apollo-now-80-years-young/

For more on the musical nature of Dr. Hashimoto, visit: https://amateurnight.org/contestants/matthew-Hashimoto and https://instagram.com/fromrexford, https://www.rexfordmusic.com; and read about his dental expertise at: https://www.grouphealthdental.com/meet-our-doctors.html