What began as a fun party activity in the distant land of Japan has now become the latest music craze to hit Indianapolis.
Karaoke is now a common attraction in local clubs and after-work joints, where crowds gather to enjoy regular working people sing some of the world’s most popular songs.
In fact the karaoke phenomenon has caught on so well here that Indianapolis now has its own Karaoke Grammy Awards, which will feature 35 karaoke singers in a friendly competition for five special trophies.
The event will take place on Sunday, Oct. 5 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Center Point, 3336 N. Arlington St. Tickets are $5 in advance, $7 at the door.
The awards competition, which is in its second year, is being sponsored by Diamonds and Pearls, an organization of individuals who are involved in karaoke events as performers, hosts and promoters.
“We noticed that Atlanta and Las Vegas had a Karaoke Grammy Awards that were attended by thousands of people, so we thought it would be a good idea to have one here last year,” said Paul Reeves, a board member of Diamonds and Pearls with Jackie Mays.
“We were successful, so we wanted to bring it back this year,” he said.
Karaoke, which originated in Japan, is the art of singing to an instrumental soundtrack played by a karaoke machine. In addition to music, most machines also have lyrics flashed in different colors to guide the singer, as well as video images to set the mood for the audience.
Many people who attend karaoke parties for the first time are instantly attracted to the fun, cheering and laughs that come with hearing friends and family sing. Karaoke allows anyone with a mildly decent voice to become a star in their community, even if they never achieved the rare prize of superstardom.
“I love to sing, and karaoke has given me opportunities that I’ve never had because I didn’t have a recording deal or perform with a band,” said Reeves, who was introduced to Karaoke by friends in Indianapolis and Dayton. “Not everybody can be a mega star making millions of dollars, but at least karaoke gives you something to grasp on to and lets you do what you enjoy doing. If you’re a singer who never went further than the shower or your family, then karaoke is for you.”
Mays, who has been active with karaoke for the past 15 years as both a performer and DJ, said it’s a neat thing to do for anyone who has ever wanted to be a star.
“Of course, I’m only a star for as long as the music (on the soundtrack) lasts,” Mays joked. “My career as a star lasts for about five minutes, but it’s a great five minutes.”
Reeves said he’s been amazed by the change he has witnessed in singers who were shy and lacked confidence, but with practice became self-assured vocalists who can rival some professionals.
“I’ve seen people leave the stage in tears or jump up and down after the crowd gives them a standing ovation,” said Reeves. “Seeing that transformation is awesome.”
Reeves enjoys performing as a solo artist to classic hits such as “Stone in Love With You” by the Stylistics, “Shining Star” by Earth, Wind and Fire and “How Deep Is Your Love” by Keith Sweat, while Mays enjoys singing tracks like “No More Rain” by Angie Stone and “Just Fine” by Mary J. Blige.
However, singers can also opt to perform in duos or groups on stage, like the popular husband and wife pair Donny and Kimi.
Mays said her group always tries to keep their karaoke activities interesting.
“We try different things like New Song Mondays, where we encourage people to sing songs they have never performed before. That’s the one night where almost everybody sounds bad,” she said, laughing. “But we have so much fun. It’s just fun cheering on everybody, including the people who can’t sing good, because they are the one’s who need the most encouragement.”
Organizers hope to bring the Karaoke Grammy Awards to the Walker Theatre next year if the event continues to grow.
“Karaoke is so much fun, and being able to sing to somebody and make them smile is nice,” said Reeves. “It brings joy to both the singer and the audience. Karaoke is something that will not just uplift individuals, but the community as well. Come on out and join us… maybe we’ll see you on stage.”
For more information about the Karaoke Grammy Awards call (317) 525-9010, (317) 547-0385 and (317) 457-8229.
