Karaoke has become a popular form of entertainment for many folks. Some people enjoy an occasional night out on the town singing with their friends. Others become so passionate about the activity that they participate nearly every night of the week. They join clubs, enter contests and tournaments, and devote virtually all their free time to karaoke. If you are serious about becoming a good singer, however, you may be wondering if singing at a karaoke bar will help or hinder your efforts. The answer could be either yes or no depending on the circumstances. Here are some things to consider before you invest a lot of time and energy into karaoke singing.

The Positives

Singing in front of an audience is usually beneficial. The best thing about karaoke crowds is that they are usually not overly critical. They are out for an evening of socializing and do not expect to hear perfection from their fellow singers. Therefore, if you mess up the words, or come in too early on the chorus, they will forgive you. Remember to return the favor and applaud politely when other people perform. This helps to encourage a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can have fun.

If you suffer from stage fright, or performance anxiety, the non-judgmental crowd at a local bar may be just the ticket for helping you overcome your fears. If you are really nervous, try to go early in the evening when the crowd will not be so large, or pick a weeknight that you know is not really popular. Take a friend or two with you. Maybe you can sing a duet or trio together, which is much easier on the nerves. At the least, your buddies can give you moral support and cheer wildly when you are done performing. Karaoke singing can get you on the road to confidence in front of an audience.

You can learn something about rhythm and phrasing by doing karaoke. Using recorded accompaniment makes sure that you keep the tempo even and come in at the right time after an interlude. A CD will not adjust if you hold a note too long, or rush an entrance, so you learn to be very aware of timing, Of course, this means that you have very little ability to modify the song to your own style, a definite downside.

The Negatives

Karaoke recordings are usually blatant copies of songs that are popular on the radio. Therefore, you are tempted to try and sing just like the artist that originally recorded the song. This limits your creativity and expression, and hinders your development of a style of your own.

A bar or tavern is not usually a good place to go if you are trying to maintain good vocal health. This is particularly true if the club you frequent allows smoking. Second hand smoke is hard on your vocal cords, and alcohol consumption is too. If you decide to go, be sure to limit the length of time you stay and the amount you drink. Bring a water bottle and use it freely, both before and after you sing.

In short, you may benefit from performing for an audience if you decide to sing karaoke, but you need to use common sense to be sure the positives outweigh the negatives.

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Filed under: Singing Success

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