I would be willing to guess that just about all of us have either been to or participated in karaoke at some point. Let's face facts: Most people can't carry a tune in a water trough. On the other hand, there are occasions where there is somebody who absolutely floors you with their singing ability and talent. What are some of the best and worst songs you've heard at karaoke?

Names of the people are not important, because nobody else would probably know them anyway. Just the songs.

BEST:

I saw a girl once who sang "I Got The Music In Me", by Kiki Dee. Note-for-note, power-for-power. My jaw was on the floor! (It didn't hurt that she was pretty easy on the eyes, either -- bonus!)

WORST:

ANYONE who attempts Don McLean's "American Pie". Whenever anybody tries to sing that, I know it's time for me to step outside for a smoke break, because it's nine minutes of my life that I'll never get back.

true that, most ppl can't carry a tune, as I am one of them. But I have to admire the ppl that do get up there and sing in front of all those ppl on Karaoke night.

I've never been, but several people have told me that the level of musical butchery is laughably deplorable.

I went once, long time ago. OMG never again! The guy I was with did a great job, but I couldn't deal with everyone else. My patience ran thin very quickly.

Karaoke is for entertainment and unless your getting paid to do it performance and talent is not necessary, it's for fun.

These days it seems you can't even have fun without being judge to the bone about it.

An ex-girlfriend and her daughters used to play some Karaoke country video game. She was singing a song about loving her tractor and I was almost ready to jump out of the window. Her love of Karaoke and lack of singing skills played a signifiicant role in my subsequent decision to bail.

No passiveness in this thread, please. Either fish or cut bait. Thanks.

I thought that was the point? Everyone gets up and sings, I laugh.

Best: Dixie Chicks/Earl Had To Die
Trick Pony/Pour Me
Worst: Meatloaf/Paradise By the Dashboard Lights

When it comes to the ones who really need help, I try to go up on stage with them and help them find the right key. Most are so worried about being embarrassed publicly, they welcome the assistance.

Oi! Forgot about that one (probably for good reason).

Actually, there are multiple 'points' to having karaoke contests. Having fun is just one of them. Another is the bar sells more alcohol due to the singers who aren't as good as the pros.

That's just because so many people think that "liquid courage" is a requirement to get up on stage.

Partly, but for me, adding alcohol makes it easier to tolerate the blood loss (ears bleeding).

The drunker you get, the better they sound.

Exactly. And, after owning a bar, I can guarantee you, I'm not the only one thinking this way...lol.

There was girl I used to know (she's since moved away) who used to sing, "Where The Boys Are", by Connie Francis. As poignant and pretty as Connie made that song, Jenny gave it a little more power and conviction, put her own spin on it, and knocked my socks off. I've never been able to listen to that song the same way since.

That's great Mr. Music!

Personally, I believe everyone can sing, they just can't sing every song. So we can choose to allow our suffering to continue or we can step up and nudge them towards a more appropriate song for them.

I've never really seen the point in shredding another persons self-esteem. And, cutting them down for doing something (especially something public) is just too humiliating for some to deal with. So, I do my best to suggest different songs that would be more suited to them.

After all, we all want to shine at some point...lol.

I agree, but how does one tactfully suggest to someone that they try a different song without it coming across to their ears like they suck? Tactfulness has never been a strong point for me (big surprise there, huh?). I just don't possess that "diplomacy" bone.

Never been to a Karaoke night at a bar but have been to karaoke home parties. Nothing like parting with co-workers who think they can belt it out like the artists and the more they drank...the more fun.

One particular party, a wonderful friend went down in history. She sang "You Shook Me All Night Long" by AC/DC while doing a lap dance on a blow up doll we named Rita. OMG...it was so laughable!!!

It isn't that difficult and you do possess that diplomacy bone, I've seen some of your posts...lol. Compliment them and say (for example), "Omg, you have a very special voice. I think you would sing (insert song title here) perfectly!"

If you feel you are lying when you compliment them in this manner, then find something else to compliment them on so that it comes across as sincere.

Remember, all humans want to do well at the things we attempt. So, if you nudge someone with the right method, it ultimately benefits them, you, and anyone else within earshot.