Karaoke Etiquette

If you've not been to a karaoke bar before, there are a few golden rules of etiquette you should follow - remembering these guidelines can help to ensure that everybody has a fun and enjoyable evening.

• Always applaud profusely when a singer approaches and leaves the stage - no matter how bad they may have been! It takes a certain amount of courage to get up and sing, especially if this was their first attempt.
• Never boo or heckle a singer; people go to karaoke for a fun time, not to be ridiculed.
• Don't go up on stage to join the singer, unless you've been invited.
• Remember to always stay patient when waiting for your turn to sing, and don't pester the karaoke DJ if your song has not yet come up. Some DJs will try to alternate styles of music (to avoid getting half an hour of ballads), whilst others may use a first come first served basis.
• Don't get upset if another person sings your song before it's your turn. There'll be lots of songs to choose from, so just find another one!
• Although bad language may be permissible in some venues, most karaoke bars ask singers to refrain from using foul language over the microphone.
• Don't stay on stage after your song is finished - karaoke bars are there to enable everyone to perform, not for you to hold a private concert.
• Don't drop, tap on, or swing the microphone. Extra care should be taken when groups are singing to avoid anyone pulling roughly at the wire. You should also remember to leave the microphone on the stage when you're finished!
• Don't feel that you HAVE to sing, although you may find that despite any misgivings, you may just enjoy yourself when you're up there. No matter how good (or bad) you may think your singing is, just relax and have fun!