Monday, March 26, 2012

Karaoke: sing like a star.


Karaoke in Japan is actually one of the most popular social events in Japan. Especially among "Salaryman" which we call in America businessman Japanese Karaoke is also very popular with college and high school students. 

I realize that there is Karaoke and then there is Japanese Karaoke. Whats the difference? A typical Karaoke bar is performed on stage at bar or in front of a crow of strangers. However in a Japanese Karaoke bar you are able to get a private room. You not only get your privacy but you are able to choose the songs and hang out with your friends.  As oppose to embarrassing yourself in front of a room full of strangers and maybe that cute guy across the table from you. I realize I am no Celine Dion or Adelle and there is no way I will sing in a public setting.  However, 7 coronas, 6 shots of vodka and a shot of whiskey have a way of persuading me to sing. But that is a different story that I would like to avoid at this time; let’s just say it ended with a hangover and embarrassing moments of singing to a crowd of strangers and a group of friends who will never let you forget about you "glory" moment.

If your as shy as me when it comes to karaoke going to a Japanese style Karaoke booth is just for you. Even if you aren't shy, its a perfect opportunity to spend time with your friends and if you don't have any, the whole world doesn't need to know. The great thing about Japanese Karaoke is that it is open 24/7 and the fee is usually 12 dollars per person for each hour. When you go to Karaoke you are assigned a room where you are set up with a Karaoke machine and mics. This give you an opportunity to sing a duet which will help with the anxiety of singing alone. Unlike my friend Stephanie who practically takes the spotlight with her voice.

Another perk other than just having a room to yourself with your friends you can order food and drink.So if you not into the whole singing scene you can just kick back and eat while you watch you friends sing and pretend its a live America Idol auditions-just avoid  killing the mood by being a Simon. 

1 comment:

  1. I love this post! It is kind of funny, a couple of weeks ago at the hospital I volunteer at, my supervisor wanted me to sing karaoke with the patients as an activity and I just couldn't do it! I know they enjoy it and I shouldn't have been shy but it definitely takes a lot of courage to sing in front of a crowd. But some of the patients and even the nurses sang, it was fun to watch! I really want to try out a karaoke bar in SF, I think that would be really fun!

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