International Karaoke Day

International Karaoke Day is celebrates on 19 July From living room duets to stage-shaking performances, karaoke brings people together with music, laughter, and maybe a little off-key fun. International Karaoke Day, celebrated every July 19, is a global tribute to this universally loved activity that turns everyone into a star—if only for a song. International Karaoke Day Also known as World Karaoke Day. International Karaoke Day Date: July 19 every year

📜 History of International Karaoke Day 🎤

Karaoke—which means “empty orchestra” in Japanese—was invented in the early 1970s by Daisuke Inoue, a Japanese musician. He created the first karaoke machine to help his clients sing along to his music even when he wasn’t around. Although he never patented the invention, it quickly became a cultural phenomenon.

The Origin of the Celebration:

• International Karaoke Day is an unofficial global celebration, initiated by karaoke communities and entertainment venues to honor karaoke’s impact on global pop culture.
• While the exact date it began isn’t documented, July 19 was chosen for its proximity to Japan’s karaoke boom in the summer and to encourage gatherings during summer holidays worldwide.

Daisuke Inoue’s Legacy:

• Inoue was awarded the Ig Nobel Peace Prize in 2004 for inventing karaoke, which has “provided an entirely new way for people to learn to tolerate each other.”

Where is International Karaoke Day Celebrated?

Karaoke has become a worldwide sensation, and so has this celebratory day! Here’s how it’s observed across the globe:

• Japan: The birthplace of karaoke. From private karaoke boxes (karaoke-kan) to public bars, July 20 sees special discounts and themed parties.
• United States: Many bars and clubs host karaoke contests or theme nights to mark the day.
• Philippines: Karaoke is deeply embedded in Filipino culture. Expect loud, joyful singing in homes, streets, and malls.
• South Korea: Popular “noraebangs” (singing rooms) fill with friends celebrating into the night.
• United Kingdom, Canada, Australia: Pubs and music lounges mark the day with karaoke battles, duets, and prize nights.

Thanks to mobile apps and online platforms, people also celebrate virtually, turning their homes into mini stages.

How to Celebrate International Karaoke Day

Here are some fun, easy, and memorable ways to celebrate:

🎤 1. Host a Karaoke Party

Invite friends over or head to a local karaoke bar. Choose a theme like ’80s hits, boy bands, or Disney songs for added fun.

📱 2. Join an Online Karaoke Challenge

Apps like Smule, KaraFun, and StarMaker allow you to sing with people across the globe.

🏆 3. Organize a Karaoke Contest

At school, work, or in your community. Offer funny awards like “Most Dramatic Performance” or “Most Surprising Song Choice.”

💃 4. Try Duets or Group Songs

From Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody to ABBA’s Dancing Queen, nothing beats singing together.

🎶 5. Learn a Song in Another Language

Challenge yourself with a Spanish salsa, K-pop track, or Bollywood classic.

🎧 What Equipment Is Used for Karaoke?

Whether you’re at home or on stage, karaoke requires some basic gear:

Basic Karaoke Setup:

1. Microphone(s): Wired or wireless; essential for that star performance.
2. Karaoke Machine or App: Devices or software that play backing tracks with lyrics.
3. Speaker System: For amplifying your voice and music.
4. Display Screen: To show scrolling lyrics—TV, monitor, tablet, or phone.
5. Mixer: Optional, for better sound control (especially in bars or live events).
6. Lighting and Effects: Disco lights, fog machines, or even a simple spotlight can elevate the fun.

Popular Karaoke Apps:

• Smule – Sing duets with users worldwide
• KaraFun – High-quality backing tracks with offline mode
• StarMaker – Sing, edit videos, and collaborate
• YouTube Karaoke Channels – Thousands of free lyric videos

🧠 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ When is International Karaoke Day celebrated?

Every year on July 19.

❓ Who invented karaoke?

Daisuke Inoue from Japan, in the 1970s.

❓ What is the most popular karaoke song?

Some perennial favorites include:

• “Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen
• “Let It Go” – Frozen
• “Don’t Stop Believin’” – Journey
• “Wonderwall” – Oasis
• “My Heart Will Go On” – Celine Dion

❓ Can I celebrate karaoke day at home?

Absolutely! All you need is a karaoke app or YouTube, a mic (or hairbrush), and your best singing voice.

❓ Is karaoke only for good singers?

Not at all! Karaoke is about fun, laughter, and expression, not perfection. Whether you’re a shy singer or a karaoke king, International Karaoke Day is your time to shine. It celebrates more than just music—it celebrates confidence, creativity, connection, and community.

International Karaoke Day 2025