What is the history of Karaoke

A.� The concept of Karaoke originated in Japan in the late 1970's. Although it has spread around the world, the thinking behind the concept is particularly Japanese, and this entertainment form has remained hugely popular in Japan since its introduction.

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Q.� How did it all start

A.� The origins of Karaoke�- the word is a conjunction of 'kara' meaning empty, and 'okestura' meaning orchestra - date back to the city of Kobe, where a snack bar owner hit upon the idea of playing tapes, and asking customers to sing along with a microphone. The Japanese love parties, and they believe in a generosity of spirit when being entertained, so even if the singer wasn't very good, they were assured of a warm reception because politeness is such a fundamental part of Japanese culture and society.

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The idea of Karaoke was, and still is, particularly popular with Japanese business people. After a hard day at the office, a lot of Japanese business people love to drop into their local Karaoke bar for a drink, and a relaxing session of making the best of the lyrics of their favourite artists�- The Beatles and Elvis Presley are particularly popular. Because learning English is considered a desirable asset in Japanese society, the additional bonus of practising English pronunciation is also appreciated. The fact that the 'English' that they practice with is tempered with Liverpool or Mississippi accents doesn't seem to put them off in the slightest!

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Q.� How does it work

A.� The earliest Karaoke bars were simple affairs.�Backing tapes were provided, and people stood and had a go at the song of their choice. With the onset of technology came compact and then laser discs, which were tailor-made of Karaoke. Before long, TV and even large video screens were introduced, which played some visual accompaniment to the song, as well as projecting the lyrics onto the screen, synchronised in time to the song. Unless the singer really didn't know the song at all, they had a fighting chance of getting to the end of it at roughly the same time as the tape, alcohol intake and tone-deafness notwithstanding.

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Because of shortcomings in Japanese architecture�- most houses lack anything approaching adequate soundproofing�- the clever idea of 'Karaoke Boxes' is becoming increasingly popular in urban areas. A large number of towns and villages now have a Karaoke Box installed. Originally made from converted rail freight cars, the Boxes are basically large soundproofed booths where Karaoke fans can warble to their heart's content, safe in the knowledge that their output is not being inflicted on their neighbours.

Q.� Is it popular over here

A.� The Karaoke boom took off in the 1980's, with a large number of pubs and clubs expanding on the 'open mic.' concept, where an accompanist, usually playing an electric organ, would play for customers who fancied a little bit of attention for the evening. Karaoke sets have been installed over the UK, with comperes to operate the equipment, and provide some running commentary. In common with their Japanese counterparts, a large number of bar customers feel the urge to prove their uncanny vocal resemblance to Tom Jones or Shania Twain, and the concept continues to remain a popular form of entertainment for relatively little outlay.

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Q.� Do I need to go to a bar or a club to try it

A.� Not at all. The boom in home Karaoke sets continues to grow, and the more modern technology allows you to obtain a relatively sophisticated Karaoke set up for your home parties for a reasonable cost. The best way to explore the options and get some proper advice is to visit www.cookies.co.uk which is the website for 'Cookies Karaoke', one of the original outlets for club and home Karaoke equipment. Because they've been around from the beginning, they have extensive knowledge of the Karaoke scene, and will be happy to give professional advice for anyone who fancies getting some gear together, for home or pub and club use.

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If you have a question about any style of music,

click here.

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