Fun fact: did you know that karaoke is a Japanese word? It means “empty orchestra.” And from a certain point of view, it’s incredibly accurate. It’s a hobby that many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs in and around Baltimore host as recurring events. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that some unwritten and unspoken etiquette has developed. These rules aren’t hard-and-fast, but still, by following them, you’re observing common courtesy during Karaoke Night.
Be Considerate About the Songs You Pick
More likely than not, some of your fellow singers are going to be Karaoke Night regulars. So if it’s your very first night, pay attention. Trying to outdo someone else’s go-to performance is frowned upon since it’s rude and disrespectful. Besides, you’re supposed to have fun, not try your hardest to outshine everyone else who is playing!
Behave Even When You’re Watching
Here’s another pointer: even when it’s not your turn, focus on the stage. This helps give the singer some extra confidence. If they feel like they’re being ignored when they are meant to be the center of attention, that’s hurtful. Don’t boo them or mock them when hesitant singers (or poor singers) are trying to pour emotion into every lyric.
Give Everyone a Round of Applause
Clapping and cheers, even for shaky performances, are encouraged. Beginners might decide to stop adding their names and song selections into the queue or outright leave the venue. That’s not fun, and it ruins the atmosphere. Likewise, try not to yell “Free Bird” – it’s intimidating in its length, even if it mostly doesn’t contain vocals.
Respect the Host for the Night
Always listen to your host! The host serves as the emcee for the evening. They’ll probably also have an assistant responsible for cueing up the songs as each new participant waits their turn. That’s why multiple requests in one go is a no-no. One more thing – when there are technical difficulties, sit tight and be patient. The hosts will do their best to figure out what’s wrong with the mic or if the songs sound out of sync!
COSTAS INN IS YOUR SEAFOOD DESTINATION FOR THE BEST CRABS IN BALTIMORE!
Costas Inn has been an area icon, slinging the best crabs in Baltimore since 1971. So here’s to 50 years, and cheers to 50 more!
You may recognize our restaurant recently featured on the Food Network with Michael Symon on Burgers, Brew, and ‘Que! We were also voted the 2015 #1 Baltimore Seafood Restaurant by USA Today and #1 Crab Restaurant 2014 in the Baltimore Business Journal. You may have also spotted Costas Inn during one of our nine appearances on the Today Show or heard one of our many interviews on WJZ TV Channel 13 with Ron Matz and Marty Bass.
You can enjoy our famous crab cakes in-house or order them online for any time eating. We also provide some of the best seafood catering in the Baltimore area! Of course, you can also get your fill from Costas even when you’re not in our dining room: follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube!
Tags: etiquette, events, karaoke, karoake night