by Ken Wilkinson

Created on: April 20, 2008   Last Updated: October 31, 2008

Like any addiction, Karaoke comes like a thief in the night. You observe, listen, slowly become a critic of those with the bravado who stand in front of people unknown to them, warbling out their favorite 60's or 70's tune, if you're over 50 that is, 80's and 90's if you are younger. Little by little you convince yourself that you can "do that one better".

With the challenging support from friends or help of liquid courage you finally stand in that lonely spot, mic in hand the beginning music lulling you into the sense that you could be a star this night. You've heard the song millions of times, sung it at the top of your lungs along with the car stereo and just know that you sound exactly like the original artist. You can even sing the back-up parts. Your world becomes surreal. You don't see the crowd, hear their comments. You are in the moment, listening to your own voice, reading the words dancing before you evoking all the emotion that you can muster...you are the star. People applaud your performance even if it was not the best. After all, one of them may be the next to try out "The Gambler" by Kenny Rogers or "I Will Survive".

Having had an ego boost, before long you are looking online at "The Singing Machine" for home purchase and practice. The point of pure addiction is at hand. You begin practice on Wednesday for Thursday's Karaoke night at the local bar. Soon you are hitting a couple of places a week. Television time is now replaced with hours of standing in front of your new friend. The words changing from blue to yellow as you sing them out loud and clear, the palm of your hand over your ear to be sure you have the pitch right. How long before the starter machine you bought for less than 300 bucks becomes a wireless mic with a chip set in it allowing up to 1500 songs per chip. Stand alone speakers synced to your computer with an interface to the I-POD. Wouldn't it be cool to have some rotating lights, disco style?

The addiction has now progressed to the point that in your secret self you know that you are really, really good. A large portion of your spendable income is devoted to travel, new chip sets, costumes, makeup. Your friends and family are beginning to worry about you. You have developed a new set of friends. The applause is now the drug of choice, the mic the needle in your arm...you are hooked...you have to have it!

Finally, the ultimate. American Idol auditions are coming near where you live. You prepare, you are ready for the big time. Simon, what do you think? "It was all very Karaoke for me Ryan". Time for rehab.

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