I don't go to karaoke events.
I've been told repeatedly that I ought to do so, because I am a singer and I'm told that I'm reasonably good. Nevertheless, I will not attend karaoke. The reason is that I follow Hollanda's etiquette suggestions to the letter, and I generally find it impossible to sit and listen to someone murdering any song. Why, oh why is it that invariably the people that hop up to sing are the people who could not carry a tune even if were contained in a bucket? I possess the mixed blessing of absolute pitch. It's handy in my musical profession, but hell to have to listen to people attempt to sing who really should have taken a pass. It is, quite literally, a painful experience. I'd rather stick a fork in my eye.
I understand Simon Cowell's reputation completely. Given his situation, I would be the same acidic, blunt kind of judge. And that is why I don't go to karoake events. But yes, Hollanda, you are absolutely correct. I just want to add, for the benefit of those who may not be aware of this... if you cannot sing when you haven't been imbibing of various alcoholic beverages, the chances that your voice and musical ability have improved with the addition of same are slim to none. And, for the love of God, don't get up to sing "American Pie" if you don't know more of the lyrics than "Bye, bye Miss American Pie"! That's just rude to everyone else who is forced to listen to you.
I think I'll go to bed now. JennJenn's starting to sound misanthropic...