Introduction to Bar Karaoke
Karaoke is possibly the greatest thing to happen to the world since music. Mix good friends, good drinks, and a microphone and the spontaneous result is a sure-fire good time. This is evidenced by karaoke’s longevity and scale; since having taken Japan by storm following its accidental fruition in 1971, karaoke has circled the globe, finding audiences dying to partake – both sober and intoxicated – in nearly every country, from America to the Philippines, and everywhere in between. Here are some key points to take note of when optimizing your karaoke-ing experience.
People
While hardcore karaoke-ers can be found at karaoke nights alone or with a partner, I find my true joy in going out with a group of good friends. Having something that everyone can enjoy such as singing really makes an evening special and truly enjoyable. A well-executed karaoke night has the ability to bring people closer together.
Singing doesn’t have to be a game of solitaire – aside from solos, most karaoke companies offer a separate book or section of duets. What better way to express yourself to your lover (or lov-ah) by singing a nice romantic rendition of “I Guess That’s Why They Call it the Blues” or “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off”? Any song can make a great duet, so don’t stick to the “duets” section exclusively while looking for something for you and your wife or homeboy to sing. Any song with a solid chorus makes a great duet or trio- break up verses to different people and let the crowd join in singing the chorus.
Alcohol
Maybe this is an American thing, maybe it’s just me, but while I will sing without drinking, I won’t drink without singing. Wait, what? What I meant to say is there is a reason that both A) bars have karaoke nights, and B) a large number of them are the busiest nights of the week. Don’t be afraid to have a few drinks before singing. The more a karaoke-er consumes, generally, the more ridiculous and entertaining the song choices become.
Shots are a valid consideration. Liquid courage has the notable advantages of giving you the added push to get up on stage, but has the more physical advantage of opening up your airway (or maybe it’s just me). I, however, steer clear from straight liquor on karaoke night. Pick a rambunctious song and you’ll soon discover the side effects of liquor sloshing around inside of your stomach while jumping around and singing at the top of your lungs like an idiot.
The Song
People and booze aside, the key point in this entire experience is choosing the right song. Just because you love a song does not mean it is the right song for you to sing. I love me some Elvis, but I sound like an idiot trying to sing… well, any of his songs. On the other hand, I have the right range and vocal dexterity to just kill a Jason Mraz track or two. Pick a song that you would sing in the shower or along with in the car. Never have someone just “pick a song” for you. Despite being “the best effing singer in the bar”, if you don’t like a song, it will show.
Your individual singing abilities aside, there are some songs that should never be sung in a bar. I don’t know anyone who goes to the bar to take a nap, so do everyone a favor and do not sing anything that will rock them to sleep. When picking out songs, think to yourself – “Would I play this at a party?” and followed up by “Would I get my ass kicked for playing this at a party?”
It’s okay to be ridiculous. Guys – sing “It’s Raining Men” or “I Feel Like a Woman”. Ladies – sing “She Think’s My Tractor’s Sexy” or “Pussy Control”. Bar karaoke is wonderful as it creates an environment for irony and for people to act in ways that would normally be socially irregular. See that blonde sitting at the end of the bar? Thinking about buying her a drink and striking up a conversation? Ditch that plan, put your suave, sarcastic face on and sing “Strangers in the Night” in your best Sinatra impression. I bet she’ll buy you a drink.
All that aside, you’re there to have a good time. Sing a song you enjoy.
Selections
Beach Boys – Little Old Lady from Pasadena
Particularly humorous sung by a ‘big guy’.
Bonnie Tyler – Total Eclipse of the Heart
” ‘Cause I fucking need you more than ever…”
Cake – I Will Survive
Up-to-date version of the original. Brilliant.
Celine Dion – My Heart Will Go On
Envision Will Ferrell singing this – and run with it.
Geri Halliwell – It’s Raining Men
Classic drunk song – for men or women.
Grease – Summer Love
I hate this song, but it’s a great easy duet nonetheless.
Jefferson Starship – We Built This City (On Rock & Roll)
Everyone likes to think they personally built a city. On rock & roll.
Jimmy Buffet – Why Don’t We Get Drunk and Screw
Odds are, if you’re in a karaoke bar… Additionally, most Buffet tunes make great karaoke.
Journey – Don’t Stop Believing
One of my personal favorites and one hell of a good group karaoke song.
Sir Mix-a-Lot – I like Big Butts
It’s OK if you’re ‘that guy’ that feels the need to sing this one.
Toby Keith – I Love This Bar
You may get booed. Hold your ground.
Pete
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Every karaoke night at my favorite bar, there’s an older woman (late 60’s – early 70’s) who never fails to get up and sing “The Pussy Cat Song” by Bob & Tom. If you’ve never heard this song yourself, please go to http://www.letssingit.com and look it up so you can envision an old woman singing the lyrics. It’s hysterical.