Tune in

I have always believed there to be two kinds of people: those who don't sing karaoke and those with brains. Whichever category you fall into, going to a karaoke bar is a right hoot. So what makes a good one? The song list is an integral part of the amateur soloist's decision because if you end up in the wrong place, you could end up singing something you only know four lines to, and that's because you heard it on a television commercial.

Also, should there be a stage, or should you hire a private booth? Do they allow drinks on the stage? Do they bring drinks to your booth? Recently, it has become even more popular, largely due to the weather i assume, for Melburnians to burrow underground or up high to some of the city's belter bars.

Here's my picks:
Chi Lounge - Little Bourke Street. Private booths with songs in multiple languages. They serve sake and charge minimum per head entry and then you just drink as much as you can (sort of, but you always leave happy)
Spice Market - next to the Hyatt on Russell. Moroccan-inspired lounge bar has a massive round harem room with a karaoke equipment and a great song list. The cocktail menu is a killer but there's plenty of cushions to ease the blow.
Charlton's - Coverlid Place. Recent discovery with all you could wish for... karaoke with great list, and a stage, and pool tables. Managed to murder only two songs with the assistance of much ale, yet did hear the best version of Babs' gem 'My Man' after some persuasion. And it was free which is not to be sneezed at.

There's many other spots though around town to tempt the vocal cords but a word of parting advice... when you've got a microphone - let it be your volume. Passion is everything when singing but so is pitch.