Last night, I watched an abysmal film called I Hate Valentine’s Day. I watched it because I was sick, it was there, and it starred the same adorable couple from My Big Fat Greek Wedding; however, it wasn’t even close to as cute as the original. One thing it did remind me of, though, was how much I miss singing karaoke.
We used to sing karaoke every year at our annual family reunion. I’m not sure why we stopped; I suppose it sort of went out of style. I’ll never forget my family members crooning about how much they love rock ‘n roll, drunkenly slurring to cowboy songs, or simply tunelessly but happily reading the lyrics from the screen. Ah, those were the good ol’ days!
Since this is National Karaoke Week, I think we could all do for some good singing fun. Forget American Idol; have your own singing competition, whether it be at work, at school, or an informal get-together with friends at the bar. Here are some ways to incorporate a little karaoke in your life this week.
Use the karaoke channel on your on-demand menu if you have one. You can set up a karaoke contest right in your living room using these functions!
Invest in a karaoke machine if you know you’ll use it often. This can be a lot of fun at parties, picnics, reunions, work events, and just about anywhere.
Buy cheap microphones if you don’t want the karaoke box. I know Target has them for about three bucks. They’re not electric, but they give you something that magnifies your voice a bit while allowing you to hold something up to your mouth as you sing. Then again, you can always use hairbrushes like my sisters and I did.
Play Rock Band or any other singing game with friends and family. Host a party with this as the main event. Invite people to dress up as their favorite singers.
Teach a child a song. It doesn’t have to be a nursery rhyme—the Beatles’ “All You Need is Love” is perfect for kids. My daughter is a big fan of “Stand by Me” (though she’s known to really get down to pop music as well). Sing together and think about performing for family.
If you absolutely love to sing and have always wanted to, call your local college or music school and inquire about the costs of voice lessons. If they’re in your budget, make an appointment.
