Karaoke is on the top of Briton's Hate List

A government survey to find Britain's most unpopular invention has put the singalong box on top. Chris Green charts its rise from Japanese curiosity to living-room fixture.
Stand up if you hate karaoke!



I certainly understand "Karaoke" is one of the most "useless" invention in the modern world, but the most "unpopular" invention is too much ... as many Britons use it today !

I heard about this on the radio. It is unpopular or most hated as it is seen as anti-social. Go to a bar and there could be 50-60 people in it, but only 10 are using the kareoke thus annoying the rest of the punters, especially if they can't sing well. That is why it is number one.

Mycernius said:

I heard about this on the radio. It is unpopular or most hated as it is seen as anti-social. Go to a bar and there could be 50-60 people in it, but only 10 are using the kareoke thus annoying the rest of the punters, especially if they can't sing well. That is why it is number one.

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Britons should develop "Karaoke Box" with noise prevention materials. WHY don't they do?

Many say 'Westerners just aren't into it' but I don't think its cultural at all. I've been out to karaoke with Japanese, Japanese/foreign mixed, and fully foreign crowds in both Canada and Japan, and while the Japanese tend to sing a lot more enka, all combinations of individuals were able to have a great time. The main difference is, as Astroboy pointed out, the lack of suitable facilities. 'The box' offers a lot more privacy for one's own sorry voice and protection against the music of others so that everyone can enjoy their own music without fear of judgment by, or fear of intrusion upon, nearby strangers.

In the right circumstances I think its highly enjoyable. Japanese style karoke is TOPS. All you can drink, hot food, open 24/7, a huge variety of songs, air-conditioned, musical instruments provided in some cases, comfortable rooms, I mean when its the wee-hours and you need to continue the party its a complete no-brainer, head for the karaoke box.

Astroboy said:

Britons should develop "Karaoke Box" with noise prevention materials. WHY don't they do?

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Most likely cost and can't be arsed. Also, especially after the smoking ban, a lot of pubs now serve food and are aiming at families for early evening business. You should also take into account the british character when it comes to showing off. Despite what you make think, the brits are still quite reserved about such things.

Astroboy said:

Britons should develop "Karaoke Box" with noise prevention materials. WHY don't they do?

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I don't know why but it seems like the obvious solution to this problem.

Mycernius said:

Most likely cost and can't be arsed. Also, especially after the smoking ban, a lot of pubs now serve food and are aiming at families for early evening business. You should also take into account the british character when it comes to showing off. Despite what you make think, the brits are still quite reserved about such things.

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Yes, a lot of "karaoke" started out the same in Japan as karaoke systems installed in bars and pubs--meaning they are open only during evening hours and they serve alcohol. Many still do. I don't think the majority of Japanese, especially young people, liked it much then.

However, the explosive growth of the business came only when companies started to build "buildings" designed for private karaoke booths and rooms like this:
きれい！おいしい！うれしい！レストランカラオケ SHIDAX - シダックス
They are open during day hours as well as at night and have extensive menus of Western and Japanese foods, offer special rooms for mothers with kids (and even infants) getting together in the afternoon hours, etc., as well as various discounts and special programs to draw nearly everyone who likes having fun. They are in fact restaurants offering private rooms and karaoke singing--and alcoholic drinks are optional, making get-togethers at these boxes comfortable for the likes of me.

Also, the privacy is excellent at these boxes. I initially disliked the idea of having to sing in front of strangers but found I liked these boxes because my singing can be heard only by my friends, and they are the only ones who jeer at me.

I personally think this type of business will take off in Western countries.

I too question why the Karaoke box has not caught on in the states.. If I had the right amount of capital it might be an investment I would look into. Your best bet for private karaoke state side is at Korean and Japanese restaurants that sometimes have a Karaoke room.

Chidoriashi said:

Your best bet for private karaoke state side is at Korean and Japanese restaurants that sometimes have a Karaoke room.

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It is still popular through out Taiwan and also available at some nightclubs & bar-style restaurants owned by Taiwanese in the USA.

Chidoriashi said:

I too question why the Karaoke box has not caught on in the states...

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I think that in the land of American Idol, a big part of the appeal of Karaoke is singing in front of an audience.

wow very interesting