Needle N Groove

Karaoke singing can be a joyous, freeing experience. However, it can be very nerve-racking for beginners. So here are a few simple tips from KJs and seasoned singers so your experience is fun for you- and the audience.

* Before you head to the bar, make sure to practice in front of the mirror. You may not be aware that you make strange faces when you try to hit that one note. You don’t want the audience to pay more attention to your face than your performance.

* Choose a song that is not too overdone, but is still well known. You want to keep your audience engaged and not bored before you finish the first twelve beats.

* Make sure you know the song. There is no excuse for forgetting the words, especially if they are streaming in front of you in bright neon letters!

* Unless this is your area expertise, please, for everyone’s sake, don’t rap! You are to be commended for knowing the lyrics by heart when the song comes on the radio, but it takes a lot of practice to look good doing rap. Likewise, don’t decide now is the time to try a rock song if you are a trained classical opera singer-or vice versa.

* Wait your turn, and don’t nag the KJ. They hate this. They usually have their own preference on the order of the songs, so don’t worry, you’ll have your turn.

* When you do get on stage, try to clear your mind of everything but the song. Remember not to shout, that’s what the microphone is for. Smile if the song is joyful as this will come out in your voice. Always, always, always have fun. If you’re not enjoying yourself, no one else will.

* It’s a good idea to drink lots of water beforehand. This will keep you and your vocal chords hydrated. Dry mouth is not appropriate at any time.

* If there is a point in the song where you need to hold a long note, start with the microphone away from your mouth and slowly pull it forward. This will make the note sound consistent. Not to mention you’ll look like a pro.

* The most important thing is to have fun and be willing to make a fool of yourself. Trust that the audience will be laughing with you and not at you. However, if making a fool of yourself means being sloppy drunk, they will be laughing at you. Stay as sober as you can. A few sips of something to loosen your nerves are fine. Taking eight shots just before you go on can make you look like your song of choice should me “Yo ho, yo ho, it’s a pirate’s life for me!”

If all else fails and you’re still not confident in your skills, take singing lessons. Professional help never hurt anyone, right?