Karianne, Kathryn, Nobu and Alix rocking some Annie!
Listen up, rockstars. I know geeks are given a bad rap in the social skills area, but we know that’s BS. However, I just read a post on karaoke etiquette and thought I would impart my thoughts on how to be a kickass karaoker!
1. Be an engaged audience– If you’re in a karaoke bar, you better be ready to hear some karaoke singing! If you aren’t up for that, move on to the next watering hole, or at least find a spot away from the stage.
2. Applaud– It’s tough to get up there, show your support and cheer on the singer! If they were the worst singer ever, applaud that it’s done! 🙂
3. No booing or heckling This goes along with the last one, and I promise you karaoke is a lot more fun if everyone is nice and supportive! (If you must heckle your friends, do it on BarStar!
4. Wait your turn– Everyone get’s their chance, so don’t jump on stage and start singing with someone unless you’re invited!
5. Don’t scream in the mic– Seriously folks, WE HEAR YOU! No need to yell INTO the mic!
6. Be kind to the equipment– Karaoke equipment ain’t cheap! Do not throw the mic, drop the mic, spill beer on the mic, hit the mic (my personal pet peeve)… you get the idea!
7. Support your KJ– Karaoke hosts are there to make your night more enjoyable, so be kind to them! You should also tip them! (hint, the more money they make, the more music they will buy!)
8. Don’t be THAT guy/girl– Hey, karaoke usually involves drinking. I get it. And I’ve certainly had a few too many once or twice in my life, as most of us have… but that drunk in the bar on karaoke night is annoying and a buzzkill. Have fun!… just not TOO MUCH fun! 😉
9. Be patient– Often karaoke night is a popular night at the bar, singer rotations can be 20-30 people or more. You may not get to sing 10 times, but you’ll have one hell of a night! Just sit back, relax and enjoy!
10. Have fun!– Seriously kids, karaoke is all about having a good time! So enjoy yourself! Sing songs you like that everyone can enjoy! Hang out with your friends, make some new friends, enjoy some beverages and keep rockin’!
What are your karaoke tips or rules? Drop us a comment and let us know!
TechKaraoke Seattle 
What should you do when you’re not singing?
SING! Sing along, people!
(Caveat: If it’s a quieter, slow, sensitive moment, let the person on stage take the spotlight. Don’t sing loudly such that you can be heard as much or more than they can.)
So true, Jeff! It’s pretty boring if no one gets into the song! Great addition!
Dancing is also encouraged. It’s another great avenue for people to have a good time. i hope people remember to be respectful while they’re doing it.
I wrote an article for this month’s Karaoke & Entertainment News which added another side to the “how to be a great karaoke singer” list … it was suggestions from singers to karaoke HOSTS on how they can be more responsive to their needs.
If you didn’t read it, it’s archived here:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SeattleKaraokeStars/message/114
I hope hosts will take some of those suggestions to heart so that singers will have a better time!
Thanks for sharing, Dan! I’ll have to check that out!