Imagine stepping out onto the stage as the spotlight momentarily blinds you. Your heart is pounding as the music begins to play. You take a deep breath and sing!
Karaoke and Open Mic Nights offer us a chance to feel like a star, but the two could not be more different. Karaoke, born in 1971 from the mind of Japanese musician Daisuke Inoue, exploded onto the U.S. scene in the early '80s. The word "Karaoke" in Japanese means "Empty Orchestra;" it's an opportunity to belt "Don't Stop Believing" like you're auditioning to join Journey or to have a good laugh with your friends as you butcher "Bohemian Rhapsody!"
On the flip side, Open Mic Nights are Karaoke's soulful elder cousin. The tradition dates back so far that no one is quite sure when it began, but many point to the smokey jazz clubs of the 1930s. Open Mics usually feature home-spun original songs and are a way for new artists to build a live audience before they're established enough to get paying gigs. Instead of a room filled with laughter, the audience often hangs on every word as you pour out your heart.
Regardless of their differences, both Karaoke and Open Mics offer a wonderful way to unwind after a long day and to express yourself in front of a supportive audience of friends.
Opportunities to Karaoke with friends abound in Huntsville!
One of the places offering the most Karaoke opportunities locally is Lisa’s Lounge! Since 1993, Lisa’s Lounge has been a gem to locals, with great food and cocktails. Loved for its friendly staff that makes the regulars feel like family, it’s also known for being an excellent place for a birthday party! Lisa’s Lounge hosts Karaoke weekly, starting at 8 PM on Wednesdays through Saturdays!
Lisa’s Lounge - 2313 Memorial Parkway Northwest - (256) 534-9520
Miller’s Tavern is a small downtown local bar with a big heart, supporting various community causes, including military veterans. Regulars speak highly of the bartenders’ and MC’s personalities and attentiveness, and it’s nonsmoking! Miller’s hosts Karaoke Wednesdays through Saturday from 9 PM until 2 AM.
Miller’s Tavern - 109 Washington St SE - (256)715-8042
Now, if you skim the reviews for Lipz Lounge, one phrase comes up repeatedly: “The BEST Karaoke in town!” Though it can get crowded, that happens when people are having a good time! Lipz Lounge is not only fun and features an intimate, cozy atmosphere, but the staff goes the extra mile to ensure you’re satisfied and have a great time there. There is Karaoke every Friday and Saturday from 9 PM with Remy Neal. Be sure to check the schedule on their website (https://lipzloungehsv.com/).
Lipz Lounge - Campus 805, 2610 Clinton Ave W. - (256)489-4859
Last but not least when it comes to Karaoke is the Furniture Factory! One of the larger venues in Huntsville (for example, they just hosted Corey Feldman - yes, THE Corey Feldman), the outside gives off beach vibes and is a great place to enjoy a cocktail with friends. If you’re hungry for a bite, the prime rib sandwich is one of the best around. Every Tuesday night is Karaoke Night, starting at 7 PM. Regular updates are available on their site (https://www.furniturefactoryhsv.com/events).
Furniture Factory - 619 Meridian St N. - (256) 539-8001
There are opportunities and a lot of variety for Open Mic Nights in Huntsville!
First, try your chances at Copper Top Dive & Dine, a quaint venue with great taste in music, darts, and a big heart, participating actively in their community! Not only does the menu feature solid food at a great price, the venue showcases great area bands and hosts an Open Mic Night every Wednesday at 8 PM.
Copper Top Dive & Dine - 200 Oakwood Ave NE, Ste Q. - (256) 536-1150
If it’s the late night you’re looking for, Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill hosts an open mic that doesn’t start until 9:30 PM! Hosted by local artists Scott and April, you’ll want to arrive earlier than that to get your name on the list. I’ve been told that the food is reasonably priced and that the fried pickles are worth the price of admission alone! Open Mic at Voodoo Lounge starts at 9:30 every Thursday night. Check their site (https://www.voodooloungehsv.com/) for updates.
Voodoo Lounge - 110 Southside Square - (256) 539-0335
One of the newest venues in Huntsville is St. Stephens Music Hall, inspired by the owners’ shared love of the Grateful Dead. To celebrate the creative process and allow the up-and-coming musicians, St. Stephens’ DeConstructed Songwriter Night & Open Mic on select Tuesdays at 7 PM. See their website (https://www.ststephensmusic.com/) for an up-to-date schedule of events.
St. Stephens Music Hall - 2620 Clinton Ave, Ste 1-D - (256)479-6224
Another unique spin on the Open Mic concept is Electric Belle’s Amplified. The Electric Belle is the indoor venue at Stovehouse, and one Wednesday night a month, they give you an opportunity to perform with their house band! For more information, be sure to check the calendar on their website (https://theelectricbelle.com/).
Electric Belle - 3414 Governors Dr SE - (256) 801-2424
Now for something different, Rooster’s Crow Coffee Roastery hosts a Christian Singer/Songwriter Open Mic. Organized by local songwriter/artist Karen Newsum, some of the sets are more gospel-oriented, some are Bible-based story-telling, but sometimes church breaks out - the whole room is led in worship songs, both classics and those just penned. You are advised to sign up in advance (email karen.newsum@comcast.net) because space is limited. Open Mic Night at Roosters Crow is the first Tuesday of every month, starting at 6:30 PM.
Rooster’s Crow Coffee Roastery - 8402 Whitesburg Dr., Bldg H - (256)763-0805
Take a chance, find your voice, and - even if for only a moment - BE A STAR! And if comedy is more your style, you’ll find a very active comedy open mic scene with updates at Huntsville Comedy’s Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/hsvcomedy/) page!
