Being a karaoke
host, I have seen that it isn’t for everyone, but it wouldn’t hurt anyone if
they tried. If you have never sung in public, today is the day you may want to
start. For those who are interested in giving it a try, here are some basic
steps on how to get over any of the first time karaoke jitters.
First, you
should arrive early if it’s a popular venue in order to submit your request to
sing. If you don’t, you will have to wait a long time to get up there. You don’t necessarily need to include the
song name right away, just your own. You can make it a bit more fun if you make
up a goofy name, and the host will appreciate it. Feel free to ask a friend if they will sing
with you in order to ease your anxiousness.
Have a seat,
relax, and order yourself a drink. Order two if you’re nervous. Grab yourself a
book of all the karaoke songs, and start to think about songs that you know all
of the lyrics to. Although lyrics are provided for you, never start with a song
you think you know, or else once you’re up there you may feel slightly
embarrassed. This reminds me of a quote I once heard, “Singing a song you don’t
know? Don’t worry, that 15 second part you do
know is coming up, and you’re gonna own that shit!”
Grab a piece of
paper, and jot down some songs that you find in the book. You’re more than
likely to forget those songs, because other singers, and the loudness of the
room may distract you. Write it down.
The host will
call you up. Don’t panic. You are here to have fun. Wear your smile and walk up
to the stage in confidence like its no bid deal – it isn’t! If you do show
signs that you’re nervous, the host might try to make you more comfortable by
asking who you’re there with, and why you chose that song to sing. Remember,
the host is your friend, and they want you do have a good time while you’re up
on stage.
Whatever you do,
never tap the microphone and say, “Is this thing on?” The host will not be
impressed, he or she is there to do their job, and they will be sure to set
their board accordingly to make you sound the best that you can.
Just before you
begin, remember to smile, and find a focal point (aside from the karaoke
screen) in the room. Whether it is the exit sign, or an advertisement on the
wall. Making eye contact with the audience can be distracting, and can give you
the impression that they may be judging you. Karaoke isn’t about judgment; it’s
all about fun!
Take a big
breath, and always remember to smile. The song will start, and you’re on your
way! As you’re singing, your feelings about being up on stage can differ. You
may still be afraid, or you may act oblivious to the fact that you are enjoying
it, or you may realize that you love it.
Don’t worry if
you mess up. It happens all of the time. Just be sure to not apologize, because
nobody cares if you make a mistake. Just get back in there, and remember to
smile.
If you chose a
song that you don’t fully know, the host will generally help you out with the
tune. Never walk off stage if you feel too embarrassed, because the most
embarrassing thing is that you walked off.
The song will
end, and the audience would generally applaud, if they don’t, don’t take it to
heart. People are either too intoxicated, or the room hasn’t formed it’s
karaoke energy. If you liked it, feel free to request to sing another song. If
you didn’t you know you tried, and more than likely, once you get back to your
seat, you may eventually want to go back up there. Karaoke is a bit of an
addiction.
In the end, you
may decide that karaoke isn’t for you, and that’s okay, you gave it a shot, and
it only stung for a minute. If you found you enjoyed it, try and find other
venues to go to for further experience. Never the less, you can’t say you
haven’t sung in public.
Don’t forget to smile!
