Karaoke fanatics across Athens do not have to search far for a cozy yet exciting destination to showcase their talents. Both Court Street and neighboring towns strive to foster an energetic atmosphere where spunky singers can express individuality.
For several people, karaoke is a simple yet engaging activity for a night out; it also sports a long and interesting history. Karaoke was founded in Japan in the 1970s. Daisuke Inoue, an inventor from Japan, created the first karaoke machine, the “8 Juke,” according to How to Karaoke.
The machine was then patented by inventor Roberto Del Rosario and the first karaoke bar opened in Los Angeles in 1982. The riveting activity eventually made its way to Athens, encouraging families, locals and Bobcats to sing their hearts out.
One of Athens’ oldest karaoke nights, starting in the 1990s, is just west of Court Street at the Smiling Skull Saloon. 108 W. Union St. is home to a loyal group of regulars who adore passionate and mesmerizing productions.
The Saloon’s Wednesday night karaoke, which starts at 8 p.m., is hosted by Lauren Jordan, or Lady J, of High Stakes Karaoke. Adrienne Whitney, an owner of the bar, started bartending in 2005 and said Lady J brings a professional setup, including a lyric monitor and a long list of songs.
“It is pretty jovial,” Whitney said. “I was there last Wednesday, and whether you know the person singing or not, if you know the song, you would be out here in the crowd singing too … it is a nice camaraderie, even if you're not familiar with all the people you're singing with.”
Although Smiling Skull offers a midweek pick-me-up, other karaoke destinations provide an escape from the most daunting day of the week for many students and employees.
The voices of several Bobcats and locals singing classics from “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond to “Old Man Take a Look at My Life” by Neil Young might reel them into the Eclipse Company Store for an exciting Monday night.
The restaurant, located at 11309 Jackson Dr., hosts a weekly karaoke night on Mondays starting at 6 p.m. As the sun goes down, those looking for a fun evening of food, drink and song can be seen taking the stage confidently.
“There are some regulars who enjoy the crowd that does come, but we see new faces all the time and invite them back,” Paul Pook, the store’s manager, said. “Since I have worked here, the general crowd has grown.”
Pook said those who participate are put into a drawing for a $100 cash prize and some staff members also find themselves on stage, releasing energy and engaging with the lively crowd.
“We have a couple of hosts who get up there and fill the little gaps in between with some folk music,” Pook said. “It is a really open, inviting atmosphere.”
In addition to Eclipse’s Monday night festivities, Bobcats and locals interested in another midweek event can make their way to The Over Hang on 63 N. Court St.
Popular for their daily deals, including $3 root beer floats and $1.50 whiskey drinks, Over Hang caters to a friendly and vibrant crowd. Sa’Nasja Fentress, a freshman studying nursing, attended two date parties this semester, both of which were during Over Hang’s Wednesday night karaoke.
With an inviting stage and lyric board ready for performers, Fentress said each singer left her and others smiling, and the bar was booming with laughter and dancing.
“It didn’t matter what songs you played (or) what genre, everybody supported one another,” Fentress said. “Usually you can feel out a place … but everybody was pretty supportive (and) energetic.”
As her friends continued to make memories and sing along, Fentress decided it was her time to shine. She took the stage with confidence and although nervous at first, Fentress said singing her favorite Kendrick Lamar and Nickelback songs was thrilling.
“I am not used to singing in front of people that I do not know, so I was kind of anxious, but my friends slowly opened me up and we ended up singing together,” Fentress said.
For decades, karaoke has brought strangers together to accomplish a common goal. Singing and dancing with friends and relishing in others' company is a frequent occurrence in Athens and those interested in participating are encouraged to attend the next karaoke night.
“It is a good time for everybody, no matter who you are,” Whitney said. “Karaoke night is fun for everyone.”
