If you find yourself lost in a crowd of karaoke enthusiasts and your only chance is to sing your way out, here are some tips from a pro:

1. Song selection is very important. Take your time and read the songbook thoroughly. Pick a song you could literally sing in the shower, the more popular the better. Most people will support a singer who chooses a very popular or familiar song, and one thing you want on your side for your first time is crowd support. Be realistic about your vocal range and style and select a song that fits both. The trick is not to bite off more than you can chew for your first karaoke experience.

2. Allow the karaoke graphics to guide you along. Most karaoke systems have a video monitor that displays the lyrics of a chosen song as the music plays. The graphic display should also provide essential information such as the count-off before the verses and instrumental breaks. In addition, the lyrics should change color in time with the music, so use this as a clue for phrasing and timing.

3. Sing to the ones who are listening. Karaoke audiences can be tough crowds for first-time singers. If you look out in the crowd and sense indifference, play to the people who really are listening to you. If you are nervous about singing in public for the first time, seeing your friends and family singing along with you or clapping or dancing can do wonders for your self-confidence. If you become friends with a more established singer, he or she may also agree to sing along with you. Karaoke singing should be a social ice-breaker and constructive outlet, not a competition.

(source: How To Sing Karaoke for the First Time by Michael Pollic, howtodothings.com)

(China Daily 12/05/2007 page4)