To elaborate on my last post, here are some tips!

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!