Some people (usually those who do not attend ‘karaoke nights’) view this type of amateur audible voyeurism as annoying at best. They picture the experience in their head as untalented losers with nothing better to do scratching their vocal nails on a blackboard. I admit, I was once at least a minor proponent of this uneducated theory, that is, before I tried it and discovered how mistaken I was. 
First, let’s dispel the ‘loser’ myth. The list of celebrities who participate in this form of eclectic entertainment is emerging every day. Kanye West, Lady Gaga, Rhianna, Jude Law, Kate Hudson, Demi Moore and even Gerard Butler have been sighted spontaneously grabbing the karaoke mike all over the USA and having
a great time doing it. 
As for the rest of us, not all local karaoke singers are desperate housewives or bar trivia playing guys who can’t get a date. I can say with complete honesty that 9 out of 10 times, the singing level of most crooners has been conspicuously and consistently competent. Sure, every karaoke night contains the clueless clunkers who, God bless
them, have confidence to spare but can’t sing a note to save their life. And yes, some are sloppier (dress and drunk level) than others, but that’s why it’s great – it’s an equal opportunity hobby for a lesson in humility and hilarity. Here are just a few of the benefits of karaoke:
- It’s Fun! Enjoyable environment with music, how can you resist?
- It’s Free! Why spend $30 to see a movie? Come out for some gratuitous gratification for a change!
- Spend time with your friends – Whether they join you or just clap for you, friends are just plain good quality time. You may even make some new ones there!
- Confidence booster – Every time you finish a song, you can’t help feel pride at accomplishing something and feeling better about yourself. Hey, many people are too shy to try, but that’s why watching is fun too.
- New hobby/reason to get out of the house – get off the couch and turn off the TV! This could be your new weekend or weekday activity. Anything that makes you sweat is exercise!
- Get to be someone else for a night. Hey it’s almost time for Halloween –do you feel like Beyonce tonight or maybe Barry White? Neil Diamond or Nelly? Be whoever you want to be!
Most people, whether they are young, old, timid, extroverts, lounge singers or loud rockers, are just interested in doing something they love to do. Would you have the guts to get up in front of people and practice your pitch if you didn’t absolutely adore the act itself? And that’s all
that matters, really. As for the cons of karaoke, there really aren’t many, if any. Just do your best and try not to focus on the ‘audience’ as you return to your seat. As I’ve said before, it’s not a contest, popularity or talent, so ignore your judges, whether they are solid singers (where’s their record contract again?) or bashful bystanders. If you aren’t having fun either watching or joining in, then go home and watch a presidential debate, that should be more relaxing.