Milwaukee Karaoke

Changes in venues, Jan 7, 2012

2012-01-07T17:52:00.000-06:00

The following places no longer will be running karaoke
Branded Steer 2
Su Casa 1
Anticipation Night Club

Brickhouse (in Muskego) has moved from Thursday night to Wednesday

The following places have added karaoke
Tues - Brewski's, 304 N 76th
Tues - Joey's Mob Scene, 4500 W Forest Home
Wed - Red Rock Saloon, 1225 N Water (w/ Live Band Karaoke)
Wed - Two Brothers, 9405 S 7th (w/ JC and Company)
1st Thursday of the month, Fire on Water, 518 N Water (w/ Live Band Karaoke)
1st Friday of the month, O'Connors's Perfect Pint, 2423 Greenfield (w/ Live Band Karaoke)
Fri (call ahead) Pioneer Bowl, 1801 Hwy 175, Richfield (w/ PJ and Angie)
Fri & Sat - Twilight Lounge, 3731 S Beaumont, Kansasville (w/ Kalani)

Live Band Karaoke!

2011-12-31T12:50:00.000-06:00

Are you looking for some karaoke for New Year's?

Unless you just happen to be one of the lucky few that got invited to my place for karaoke tonight, the best place to sing karaoke tonight might just be Bar Louie in Bayshore Mall. Not only are they doing karaoke, but they are doing Live Band Karaoke!

Live Band Karaoke is brought to you by none other than the band Live Band Karaoke. They got the name because they do Live Band Karaoke. Clever guys.

Really, singing karaoke with a live band is a hoot. First, cuz it's live, right? But, not so obvious is that the band will keep time with you, rather than you trying to keep time with the band. I was just singing Impossible Dream this morning in my home office, and I was frustrated to tears that the karaoke version doesn't allow me to hold out those dramatic notes at the end. Perhaps the dogs appreciated that the song got over quickly, but I sure coulda used a live band behind me this morning. Maybe I'll give Mike Grassman a call to see if he could get the band to back me up in the shower tomorrow morning. I know they do private parties.

Here is their Songlist. I may have to ask them to learn Impossible Dream.

If you just happen to miss the party at Bar Louie, you can catch them playing around town. I see from their calendar that they are doing a show at O'Conner's on January 6th, and are at Replay Sports Bar on January 28th.

As always, your favorite Revelator,

John the Revelator

Last night for Kalani at Roma's

2011-11-26T19:29:00.001-06:00

Here is a FaceBook post from Kalani -

Kalani Pieper
Regretfully after 14 years next Saturday, December 3, 2011, will be my last night at Roma's. We are having a big party with food and karaoke entertainment starting at 7:00 p.m. until ???? Come out and join us for a night of fun, song, and memories!!!

Sad... Roma's is in East Troy.

Halloween karaoke Party at Chances

2011-10-15T06:00:00.001-05:00

Special event coming soon.... Chances Food and Spirits, and I do mean spirits, is hosting a Halloween party Saturday October 29'th. Festivities will be in the haunted ballroom. Nine pm till one am. DJ, karaoke, costume prizes and drink specials. Rochester, WI near Burlington. This place is nearly one hundred and fifty years old and there are tales of ghosts hanging out there.

Karaoke hosted by Rosh Entertainment

Your chance to sing on TV!

2011-09-25T11:27:00.000-05:00

Kalani's Karaoke Entertainment will host the PBS Channel 14 fund raiser on Monday, September 26, 2011. Flyer is attached. Come out and sing with us and be on TV. Show will air several times in the month of October. It is a Halloween party so come dressed in costume!!!

New karaoke venue for Sven's Karaoke

2011-09-24T18:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a message from my buddy and protege, Sven:

Bay View Bowl
2416 S Kinnickinnic Ave

Wednesday, September 28 at 9:00pm - September 29 at 12:00am

Sven's Karaoke is back! This Wednesday starting at 9PM till whenever at Bayview Bowl! You can sing, you can bowl, you can drink, and you can also do all these things at the same time! This is the start of a weekly karaoke show so hope to see you guys there.

Whare to find an older crowd?

2011-09-24T06:00:00.010-05:00

I posted a question a while ago: where can you find an older karaoke crowd. I have asked around, and done a little visiting. Here are my suggestions.

China Inn
10539 Forest Home
Hales Corners

China Inn serves up karaoke for an older crowd three nights a week. You can sing there Wednesday (starts at 7:00 PM), Friday (starts at 8:30 PM), and Saturday (8:00 PM). They have a wide collection of KJs, including Kalani, JC and Company, Doug Lee, and A & K Karaoke.

Review

Roma's Lounge
N8416 Cty Rd ES
East Troy

Roma's features "the legendary Kalani" every other Saturday night. He has been running karaoke for 23 years, so he has quite a following. (Dan Fritz of Lights Out Interactive Entertainment runs
karaoke on alternating Saturday's with a slightly more mixed crowd. Dan also runs karaoke there on Thursday night, and someone else runs karaoke at Roma's on Fridays.)

Review

Red Mill
1005 S Elm Grove Rd
Brookfield

Kalani (a familiar name by now?) runs karaoke at Red Mill on Tuesday nights. This is a nice restaurant setting, and what can I say? Kalani is legendary. Look for Kim Marie there when she is in town.

Red Mill will also be trying out Saturday night karaoke with Doug Lee hosting.The first night is October 8, 2011.

Review

Critic's Corner Pub
Country Inn
350 East 7 Hills Rd
Port Washington

If you are north of Milwaukee, Kiki and Rosario of Serenity Now karaoke run karaoke at this hotel lounge every other Thursday and every Friday.

Review

I welcome any comments (good or bad) and of course, any corrections.

Review of karaoke at Sandbar Sports Pub

2011-09-24T06:00:00.002-05:00

Sandbar Sports Pub
W278 N2315 Prospect, Pewaukee, (262) 696-4486
7:00 PM

No KJ – just equipment – good system but no emcee’ing – bartendresses run it – song book is NOT useful for any Country singers – really archaic. Won’t run “your” song off flash drive – not blamin’ them…obviously no guard against bootleg and condoms don’t work on flash drives..just reporting. I wasted a long drive in last Sat for naught.

Kris

Extra night of karaoke at the Red Mill

2011-09-22T18:29:00.002-05:00

The Red Mill has decided to try out a second night of karaoke. They regularly run karaoke on Tuesday nights, but will have Doug Lee running karaoke this coming Saturday, Oct 8, from 8 until 11. I am sure if they get a good turn out, they will continue the Saturday night offering.

I have not seen Doug run karaoke, but I have met him. He has a nice smooth voice, and he reacquainted me with songs songs from my past. And the Red Mill is a great place anyway. I would expect an older crowd.

Incidentally, Doug is also one of three KJs running Friday night karaoke at China Inn. Look for him on Sept. 23 and Oct. 14, 8:30 - 12:30.

Have fun! If you do visit, let me know what you thought.
John the Revelator

Review of karaoke at China Inn

2011-09-19T06:00:00.003-05:00

I had heard good things about karaoke at China Inn. They run karaoke there Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday nights, with a selection of KJs that rotate around. I finally decided to visit there for the Friday night karaoke. Summary... a good place for the older crowd.

Let me say this first, if you are looking for a place to get sloppy drunk and sing Don't Stop Believin' with twelve other guys and sing Cee Lo Green with the naughty words, this is probably not the place. As much as I love hearing people laughing because that can't keep up with the lyrics of a rap song, there are times when a fellow needs to get away and hear some of the older stuff. BTW, when I say "older stuff", I don't mean Backstreet Boys.

Karaoke on that night was hosted by JC and Company. Excellent collection of music, Jim was a very affable host, teasing some of the regulars just a bit, but keeping everything friendly. Very easy going fellow and very clearly the crowd has known him for years. After chatting with him a bit, I felt the same.

The crowd was also a good-natured group of folks, and it was also clear that many of them had been karaoke buddies for a long time. Even with that, I was made to feel quite welcome. I sat next to a fellow that I started chatting with and had a grand old time.

The speakers were excellent, being Bose L1. The mics, on the other hand, left a little to be desired. The mics for the singers were Peavey wireless mics.

If I may pontificate on the plight of KJs for a moment... KJs are faced with a dilemma. They want the patrons to sound good, but, let's face it, the mics get a lot of abuse. And wireless mics are great, cuz people are free to wander around and don't trip on mic cords.

But wireless mics are tragically expensive. I ran shows with a wireless Audio Technica mic that cost me about $100. And it was a cheap wireless mic. Which means, it would distort for anyone with a powerful voice or with a lot of overtones in their voice. Ideally, I would have spent the $400 for a wireless Shure SM58. But... this is karaoke.

So... the Peavey mics distorted pretty bad when Big Johnny got up to sing. Big Johnnie is a big guy and has an even bigger voice.

But all in all... I had a great time. And that what counts.

John the Revelator

Where to sing?

2011-09-11T21:08:00.000-05:00

I get a question rather frequently from older singers... where is a good place for an older crowd to sing? Something with a lounge kinda feel, a bit upscale maybe. An older crowd that might do some of the old crooners, old standards, Johnny Cash, Ella Fitzgerald, Elvis, Sinatra, Patsy Kline, maybe some Bobby Darin. Maybe some 70's rock? Not any rap or hip-hip... no dance music with thumping bass.

Does anyone have any suggestions? Where is a good place for an old fart to sing?!?!? Post your reply, or email me!

Karaoke contest at Roma's

2011-09-10T14:15:00.000-05:00

I just heard about this karaoke contest being run at Roma's in East Troy:

Review of Six Points Pub

2011-08-11T06:00:00.002-05:00

BTW went to 6 Points Pub and Grille last nite. Clean, nice workin’ class bar with same kinda patrons. Friendly place. Friendly Bar Tendress. Ultimate DJ Svc ran show. Met Joel the DJ Svc owner and Joe his KJ. Personable guys. Very friendly and nice. Not stellar showmen but warm friendly guys. Simple but ok equipment. The people and place “embraced” me as a newby. I don’t’ go out Monday’s unless practicing for competition and really wanna sharpen songs but I’ll go back there.

Submitted by Kris, Aug 2, 2011

Karaoke at Six Points runs Mondays...
Six Points Pub and Grille
6200 W Greenfield, West Allis, (414) 347-2337
9:00 PM

Review of Edge Entertainment

2011-08-09T06:00:00.001-05:00

Jim Edgeworth – Edge Entertainment is among the best KJ personalities out there and his equipment is tops. His shows are very very good. His song list is very comprehensive. His ability, show and equipment matches any I’ve seen.

He’s at EZN Sports Bar n Grill on Friday’s – West Bend addy but only 5 min off Hwy 41 at Hwy 60. Great place, regular crowd / family of good singers. He also does Pillars in W. Bend about monthly. Finally – he pretty much hosted / ran the Wisconsin contingent of the USA Karaoke World Championships just completed last month on his own. Really big turnout from all over Milwaukee.

Submitted by Kris

For those interested, here is a link to the website for Edge Entertainment.

Singing at Danny's

2011-08-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

Last Wednesday, I visited a great spot for karaoke: Danny's Big Easy on 18th and Vine.

I had a little New Orleans cuisine before I sang. The food was decent, but not fabulous. But then, I am comparing it to the etouffe I had in New Orleans. The waitress was cute and very friendly.

KC was the karaoke host. He had an awesome voice that made the high notes sound effortless. Despite the fact that he was just a young buck, he did some old school songs that I know and love. The thing that I liked was that he was obviously enjoying himself. He was not there to showcase his own skills, but to help everyone to have a good time.

There were perhaps 20 or 30 people at Danny's. Most of them got up and sang at least once. Those that did... I gotta say... there were a lot of good singers! The singer who stood out the most in my mind was Sophia. I loved her soulful and powerful voice. There was another singer - I am sorry, I did not catch her name - who will be appearing on ABC's "Karaoke Battle USA"! Wow.

I had a great time that night, and pondered later about what made it such a lovely night. I have come to the conclusion that it was a "Cheers" kind of place. "You wanna be where everybody knows your name." Family.

Most of the crowd was around a big table. They didn't all come in at once... it was a few at a time. But they all knew each other. And they all were supportive of one another. Despite the fact that I was not at that table, and not in that clique, I still felt welcomed. I spoke with quite a few of them, and immediately felt at home. Two people invited me to come and sing the following night at the Juke House.

It all reminded me of the karaoke crowd that I fell in with years ago in Madison, led and inspired by my mentor, Johnny with Koool Karaoke. I miss that.

Oh... I should mention one more thing. Danny's is in Kansas City. The karaoke was run by Stars and Bars Music. Thank you for showing me a good time while I was in KC on business.

Karaoke is alive and well in Kansas City.

Review of Sandbar Sports Pub

2011-08-07T14:33:00.002-05:00

Sandbar Sports Pub
W278 N2315 Prospect, Pewaukee, (262) 696-4486
7:00 PM

Submitted by Kris, August 1, 2011

Sandbar runs karaoke on Saturday nights.

KJ looking for a home

2011-08-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

Since Whiskey River has closed, my good buddy Anthony (AKA Sven) has been looking for a place to set up his awesome karaoke system once a week. Anyone know of a place where they need to have some karaoke going on??!?!

Check out the Svens Karaoke website to find out how to contact the poor lonely lad.

Changes in venues, July 30, 2011

2011-07-30T15:09:00.001-05:00

Sad news first
I am sorry to report the loss of a number of karaoke places .At the top on the list is Long Wong's.That long-standing traditional Saturday night karaoke spot has closed it's doors. Thanks Slick Nick, for all your great hosting there!

Another bar closure: Showtime in Allentown closed their doors. Allentown is also losing Wednesday night karaoke at O'Reilly's. Also up that way, Saint Lawrence C-Way in St Lawrence has also decided to pass on the karaoke for a while. O'Reilly's and St. Lawrence C-Way will hopefully get back to karaoke this fall.

Marcus Pennie was running karaoke at Remington's in Theinsville. They have decided not to run karaoke any more.

Big Mike ran karaoke for many years at the Circle B in Cedarburg, and has decided to hang up his mic. But the good news is that Laurie, with Bust-a-Tune, will be picking that up.

The Riverhorse in West Bend is moving their karaoke night from Saturday to every other Sunday. The alternate nights, Bust-a-Tune will run karaoke at Bankshot in Hartford.

Another change (well... correction of my mistake) Big Pauly's has karaoke with Dragonfly on Friday nights, and not on Saturday. Oh and another mistake: Straight Shots runs karaoke only on the first Saturday of each month.

Some places that have added karaoke
Monday: 6 Points Pub in West Allis, starting at 9:00
Tuesday (starting August 9): Latest Edition in Jackson, 8 PM
Friday: Gary J's 16th Street Pub in Milwaukee) with Juan (9:30)
Saturday: Lenny's in West Allis, 10 PM

I want to thank all the folks who have emailed me. You are the folks that help keep the Milwaukee karaoke listings up to date.

Serenity Karaoke

2011-07-28T18:35:00.000-05:00

I have been hearing some good stuff lately about the karaoke shows from Serenity Now Karaoke. Kiki and Rosario do a karaoke show every Friday night at Critic's Corner Pub in Port Washington. You can also find them there every other Thursday night (next show on August 4, 2011).

Here is what Rosario had to say about last week's shows:

Good morning dear friends!

For those of you who were not at our shows last week, what a week we had! A special surprise Karaoke Forum guest attended our show, coming all the way from Dyer, IN. Thanks to Johnny "Reverb" for making the night special and singing Dominick the Donkey with Rosario.

Added some more new songs this week, so come in and check them out. Meet up with your friends and make it a karaoke party. Have a few cocktails, sing a few songs, and have a night of fun, fun, fun (as usual). Can't wait to see who shows up. It's always a surprise to Kiki and I.

I am sorry I missed the duet on Dominick the Donkey! I am sure that it would have become one of my favorite songs that I never heard of before. Rosario would also like for me to mention that Kiki's birthday is Friday, August 12th. Stop in for cake and ice cream. If you stop in, tell 'em the Revelator sent you.

Critic's Corner Pub is at 350 East 7 Hills Rd in Port Washington. This is the lounge of the Country Inn.

Here is the Serentiy Now Facebook page.

And, in case you are looking for karaoke elsewhere in town or on a different night, check out Milwaukee's most complete karaoke listings.

Goodbye Whiskey River

2011-07-06T22:02:00.000-05:00

I have a note from my good buddy Sven...

To the Karaoke Crowd,

First off, I want to thank all of you for your continued patronage to Whiskey River Saloon for karaoke on Mondays. Because of you guys, we have one of the best groups of karaoke singers in the city. You guys made Bootleggers and Whiskey River the place to sing. That is why this is hard for me to announce to you all. Whiskey River is closing down effective immediately and with it, our karaoke Mondays. This wasn’t because of you guys. If anything, it was because of you that Whiskey River was open as long as it was. I remember being told on multiple occasions that Mondays was one of their best nights of the week for the bar. Personally, it was the best day of my week.

Hosting karaoke at Whiskey River and Bootleggers was one of the major highlights of my life and it saddens me to see it end like this. I’m going to missing handing over the stage to you guys every Monday for great songs, great laughs, and unforgettable memories. I will be looking for a new weekly gig to call home but this karaoke night was special and I will miss it dearly. I will keep you all up to date on when a new karaoke night is found and again, thank you so much. You guys are the best karaoke crowd anyone could ever hope for.

Love and Music,
Anthony ‘Sven’ Chojnacki
Sven's Karaoke

Karaoke map of the southeastern WI area

2011-07-04T12:23:00.001-05:00

I recently got an email from a fellow that has extended the Google map of karaoke well beyond just the greater Milwaukee area. He shows places as far flung as Portage, Mt Horeb, and Rockford. Hats off to Paul, cuz I know this is a lot of work!!

Paul's Google map of karaoke

New KJ in town

2011-06-11T19:26:00.000-05:00

There's a new karaoke DJ in town. Well, he's not exactly new, but his website is new. Sven can be found every Monday night at Whiskey River Saloon.

Visit SvensKaraoke.com for more information.

Sven's website by TwoDuckFeet.com.

Review of karaoke at Gridiron

2011-06-01T20:05:00.000-05:00

I went to the GridIron last Friday and overall, I'd say the place has potential. It's a nice, big, clean space. Small screen for the singer on a little corner stage, big dance floor and projection screen of lyrics for the audience. You can sit on all 4 sides of the bar, there are nice pool tables.

...But the patronage was a bit lacking, meaning the largest number of people while I was there was 9. Including the bartender. And the KJ. Granted, it was Memorial Day weekend and a lot of people go out of town or to parties/other festivities. The KJ even mentioned shutting down early because of the lack of crowds, which makes me assume it's normally at least a little busier than it was. I don't mind a small crowd because it just means more singing, which I like.

The major downfall, however (and it's enough of a downfall that I probably won't return), is the karaoke tracks. The selection was pretty decent, but I don't think ANY of the tracks were Sound Choice (none the whole evening I was there at least). I don't mean to be a snob, but it makes a big difference. One of the songs I sang was consistently 2-5 beats off with the word cues. Had I not known the song, it would have been brutal.

I also felt like the KJ was a little bit over-eager. Really friendly guy, but I don't need you to walk up to the bar and wait for me to fill out my slip so I can personally hand it to you without getting up. Overall, I'd say I really wanted to like it...but it just didn't pass my test. The search continues.

Review submitted 6/1/2011 by Lauralen

--- comments from the Revelator ----
For the complete listings of karaoke in the area, check out Milwaukee Karaoke Scene.

Just in case you were wondering about the KJ at the Gridiron, he is Roy "Mr. Roboto". He has something of a following in the area. Here is a link to an interview with him.

Roy was also interviewed by Milwaukee Magazine for an article about karaoke. And, just in case you're wondering, the John Seymour who is quoted in the article is yours truly, John the Revelator Seymour.

Still not convinced that Roy is a celebrity? Here is a video of him singing at Booleggers before I KJed there. And he is on Flickr as well!

You got to hand it to a guy who has found a hobby that he enjoys.

Changes in Venues, May 29, 2011

2011-05-29T13:55:00.000-05:00

Updates to Milwaukee karaoke scene ---

Thanks to all the people who gave me tips - Elena, Karn, Lee of Moonlight Karaoke, Rosario of Serenity Now Karaoke, and Radar. Please do no hesitate to send me an email when you find a karaoke spot that's not on my list, or when a spot on my list stops doing karaoke.

Check out my website for the complete listing of Milwaukee Karaoke.

Places not doing karaoke

Monday	Broadway Baby
Tuesday	Lucky's Irish Pub & Grill
Tuesday	Nice Ash
Wednesday	Arizona Grill
Thursday	Cheese Bar
Thursday	Club Brady
Thursday	Vitucci's
Friday	Quaker State & Lube

New listings

Monday	BTW Lounge	231 E Buffalo	Greenfield
Tuesday	Historic Red Mill	1005 S. Elm Grove Rd	Brookfield
Tuesday	Hybrid Lounge	707 E Brady	Milwaukee
Tuesday	Scott E's Pub	3800 s 108th	Greenfield
Wednesday	Newsroom Pub & Grill	137 E. Wells St	Milwaukee
Wednesday	Safe House	779 N. Front St	Milwaukee
Wednesday	Three Lions	4515 N Oakland	Shorewood
Wednesday	Triangle Bar	135 E National	Milwaukee
Thursday	Critic's Corner Pub	350 East 7 Hills Rd (Country Inn)	Port Washington
Thursday	Jersey's	4024 S Howell	Milwaukee
Thursday	Milwaukee Ale House	233 N. Water St	Milwaukee
Thursday	Milwaukee Brat House	1013 Old World 3rd	Milwaukee
Thursday	Miss Katie's Diner	1900 W Clybourn	Milwaukee
Thursday	Mona's Out and About	1407 S. First	Milwaukee
Friday	Aviator Sports Bar & Grill	5105 S Howell	Milwaukee
Friday	Critic's Corner Pub	350 East 7 Hills Rd (Country Inn)	Port Washington
Friday	Ugly Mug	604 S 64th	Milwaukee
Saturday	China Inn	10539 Forest Home	Hales Corners
Saturday	Dicken's Grill & Lounge	9646 W Greenfield	Milwaukee
1st and 3rd Sat	Frank's Power Plant	2800 S. Kinnickinnic Ave	Milwaukee
Saturday	Sandbar Sports Pub	W278-N2315 Prospect	Pewaukee
Sunday	Hi Hat Garage	1709 N Arlington	Milwaukee
Sunday	Irish Knot	2479 N Fratney	Milwaukee

Last night to qualify for the Karaoke World Competition!

2011-05-21T02:49:00.000-05:00

Saturday, May 21st is the last night to qualify in Wisconsin for the Karaoke World Competition!!!

Come tonight to Pillars Pub, 225 S. 5th Ave., West Bend to enter. Winning a spot tonight will send you the the Wisconsin semifinals, which will be held this coming week:

Sunday, May 22nd, the semifinals will start at King Pin Bowl in West Bend (1022 S. Main St.) Karaoke starts at 4:00 PM

The semifinals continue at EZN Sports Bar 3680 County Hwy NN, West Bend, on Friday, May 27th. The last day of the semifinals is Sat. May 28th at Pillars Pub. Both of these events start at 9:00 PM

The Wisconsin finals are on Sat, June 18th at Pillars Pub, 9:00 PM.

From Wisconsin, it's on to the regionals in Chicago, the nationals in Los Angeles, and the world competition in Ireland. This year, for the first time, ABC News will be bringing the competition into your living room.

Any questions should be directed to Jim Edgeworth III of Edge Entertainment. (He's a good guy, by the way.)

JSOnline has pictures from previous qualifying rounds at King Pin Bowl. Karaoke addicts will no doubt recognize some of my buddies, including Ryan and Wayne. Good luck guys!

Competition in Milwaukee

2011-05-07T10:14:00.000-05:00

I take it as my responsibility to keep the Milwaukee area appraised of all karaoke related experiences. I take that responsibility seriously. And I do sometimes venture a little bit beyond the domain of karaoke. For example, I have taken great pleasure in providing Milwaukee with the single largest collection of pictures of Milwaukee area people playing air guitars during karaoke performances. With no less than thirty-three pictures, this blog stands as a testament to fine art of inflatable air guitar playing during karaoke performances.

It is in this spirit that I am proud to inform my audience of a competition that is coming to Milwaukee. The competition is kinda similar to karaoke in that it provides a venue for public narcissistic behavior. It is kinda more similar to playing the inflatable air guitar in that it has the word "air" in it, and that both can be done with an inflatable prop.

I am, of course, talking about the Air Sex World Championship. The Milwaukee Air Sex Championship will be held at Stonefly, 735 E. Center Drive, on May 5th.

Franklin Idol competition

2011-05-06T09:58:00.000-05:00

FRANKLIN IDOL 9 CONTEST. Singers are needed for the karaoke contest to be held during the Franklin Civic Celebration Festival on July 3. Auditions will be 9:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. every Thursday night in May and June at the Bowery Bar and Grill, 3029 W. Ryan Road, Franklin. Singers younger than 21 must be accompanied by a person 21 years old or older. There are no fees to enter, and 15 contestants will be chosen to sing for prizes of $500, $250 and $100. Information: John Bergner, (414) 425-2884 or email jbergner@sbcglobal.net.

This notice is from JSOnline

Changes in Venues, May1, 2011

2011-05-01T15:17:00.000-05:00

I have a summary below of the changes in karaoke venues for the Milwaukee area. For complete listing of karaoke spots, along with addresses and phone numbers, visit the Milwaukee Karaoke Scene website.

Here are new places to go sing karaoke in the Milwaukee area:

Tuesday and Friday, Gridiron, Cudahy
Wednesday, Next Bar, Oconomowoc
Thursday, Curly's Waterfront, Pewaukee Lake
Friday, Lakerz Sportzbar, Oconomowoc
Friday, Pier 6, Port Washington
Saturday, Jackson Pub, Jackson
Saturday, Joker's 5, West Bend
Saturday, Wegner's, Hartford
Saturday, Winger's Tap, Oconomowoc

The following places no longer have karaoke on the nights listed:

Wednesday, Champ's, Brookfield
Wednesday, Jakob's Pub, Milwaukee
Wednesday, Paulie's West Allis
Wednesday, TATS, Cudahy
Thursday, Magoo's, Milwaukee
Saturday, Roberts, Milwaukee

Once again, I would like to thank all the people who are helping me keep my website updated!

Best karaoke bars in Milwaukee

2011-04-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

OnMilwaukee.com has released their list of best karaoke in Milwaukee. Once again, the Up and Under is their favorite. Also on the list were Long Wong's, Frank's Power Plant, Safe House, ... See the entire list.

And if you are looking for other places to sing, or are looking for addresses and nights for the places they list, have a look here.

Changes in venues

2011-03-30T06:00:00.001-05:00

It's been a while since I have updated. Sorry!

The following places have been removed:

Monday	Spanky's Hideaway	Mequon
Tuesday	Donges Bay Clubhouse	Mequon
Wednesday	BarNone	Milwaukee
Wednesday	D&D Sports Bar	West Allis
Wednesday	Live on North	Milwaukee
Wednesday	Magellan's	Waukesha
Friday	Double Gee	New Berlin

New places to sing:

Tuesday	Lucky's Irish Pub & Grill	Milwaukee
Tuesday	Nice Ash	Waukesha
Tuesday	Showtyme Saloon	Allentown
Wednesday	Arizona Grill	Oak Creek
Wednesday	Liquid Hideout	South Milwaukee
Wednesday	O'Reilly's Pub	Allentown
Wednesday	Player's Bar & Grill	Trenton
Thursday	Alehouse	New Berlin
Thursday	Club Brady	Milwaukee
Friday	Chancery	Waukesha
Friday	Classic Lanes	Oak Creek
Friday	Quaker State & Lube	New Berlin
Friday	Saint Lawrence C-Way	St. Lawrence
Saturday	Alehouse	New Berlin
Saturday	Riverhorse West Bend	West Bend
Sunday	Bank Shot	Hartford

For addresses, phone numbers and starting times, visit the complete Milwaukee karaoke listings.

Announcement of national karaoke contest

2011-03-29T11:23:00.001-05:00

This note from Jim Edgeworth of Edge Entertainment...

The Karaoke World Championships are back in Wisconsin again and this time it is a Casting Call for ABC TV’s new show America’s Karaoke Challenge!!! Everyone who makes it to Regionals this year will see the ABC Camera’s as they begin shooting for their new Reality TV Show!! The Local/State contest will be starting in April and go into May. This year there is some new rules and it is going to be a Blast!!

I have now signed up 3 Venues for you to qualify for the KWCUSA Contest!! Check it out at http://www.kwcusa.net/WI.php . You can register to compete on that page! I will be posting the dates and times this weekend for each Venue. This year is a little different because you have to register on the KWCUSA site to compete. Once you register you can send in a Video tryout AND compete in the local Venues. I will need the receipt for the registration as proof. I can’t wait to get this started. April 15th is the First Qualifier!!! See you there!

I hope everyone is getting pumped and ready to bring it because we are going to put Wisconsin on the Map in this Contest!!!

Live band karaoke at Wiskey River, downtown Milwaukee

2011-02-22T10:41:00.000-06:00

Anyone who has sung both karaoke and in a band will be aware of one difficulty with karaoke. You gotta follow the tempo of the pre-recorded music. Sometimes you just wanna hold a note a little longer, or maybe take a section a little faster.

You can do that with a live band. And that's why Whiskey River Saloon (1025 N Old World Third in Milwaukee) is running Band-E-Okee. The first night is Wednesday, March 23, 10:00 PM. The live band has 350 songs to choose from.

Not quite the selection that Sven gives you at Whiskey River on Monday nights, but definitely an experience to enjoy!

Contest at Rooters

2011-01-20T06:00:00.002-06:00

Tony Davis, of Premier Entertainment, will be hosting a series of six weekly karaoke contests starting Monday January 31st. The contest will be held at Rooters at 901 Northview in Waukesha. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. Karaoke starts at 10:00 PM.

Changes in venues, Jan. 19, 2011

2011-01-19T09:51:00.000-06:00

I am pleased to report two new karaoke venues in the Milwaukee area, both on Wednesday nights.

Magellan's
370 W Main
Waukesha
(262) 542-0420

Steny's Tavern
800 Sout 2nd
Milwaukee
(414) 672-7139

I am sad to report that Papa Giorgio's, in Brookfield, has closed. They ran karaoke on Friday and Saturday nights. It is a bit sad because my wife and I had eaten several romantic dinners there.

Visit Milwaukee karaoke scene for a complete listing of karaoke in the area.

John the Revelator

Live band karaoke at Bar Louie - New Year's Eve

2010-12-27T06:00:00.000-06:00

Bar Louie will be having Live Band karaoke on New Year's Eve. Karaoke starts at 9:00. A variety of packages are available.

Bar Louie
Bayshore Mall
(414) 831-2700

http://www.mke411.com/event.asp?eid=2092

Changes in venues, Dec. 19, 2010

2010-12-20T06:00:00.004-06:00

The most comprehensive list of karaoke in the Milwaukee area

New places to sing karaoke
AJ's Bar and Grill, w/ DJ Dan
S90 W13970 Boxhorn, Muskego
(414) 427-1707
9:00 PM, 1st and 3rd Friday of each month

Amann's, w/ Ultimate DJ Service
9131 W Beloit, Milwaukee
(414) 321-4877
10:00 PM on Tuesdays

Branded Steer 2, w/ DJ Dan
10950 W Good Hope, Milwaukee
(414) 359-1349
8:00 PM on Wednesdays

Buzdum's*
W188 N10515 Maple, Germantown
(262) 251-4727
9:30 on Thursdays

Club Bene's, w/ World Stage Karaoke
2827 63rd, Kenosha
(262) 654-0834
9:00 PM on Mondays

Coach's, w/ World Stage Karaoke
488 Milwaukee, Burlington
(262) 763-9640
10:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays

Country Lanes Bowling, w/ Ultimate DJ Service
11231 Forest Home, Franklin
(414) 529-4700
9:00 PM, on alternating Friday and Saturday

Larry Michael's Club, w/ Ultimate DJ Service
8900 W Greenfield, Milwaukee
(414) 453-9211
9:00 PM on Thursdays

No longer doing karaoke
Carey's Irish Psorts Pub & Grill in Milwaukee
D&D Sports Bar in West Allis
Lost Cause in Milwaukee
Pillar's Pub in West Bend
Starting Gate* in Germantown

*The Starting Gate has closed and reopened under new management as Buzdum's. The night for karaoke has changed to Thursday.

Karaoke at MJ Cafe update

2010-12-19T10:39:00.001-06:00

Sunday night karaoke at MJ Cafe is taking a little hiatus. Look for it again on Sunday, Jan 2nd, 2011.

Karaoke with Sven and Revelator Karaoke
MJ Cafe
A relaxed eatery and martini bar
6901 W. Brown Deer Rd
Milwaukee
(414) 377-2524

Elvis contest

2010-12-18T15:45:00.001-06:00

Overview
Prince Productions, LLC will host an Elvis “Karaoke” Contest, during the ELVIS BIRTHDAY BLAST on Friday, 01/07/11. This contest is open only to Elvis Birthday Blast Ticket Holders. The contest will be held at Madison Turners, 3001 S. Stoughton Rd., Madison, WI at 7:30PM, with doors opening at 6:30PM. There will be a limited number of contestants allowed, which will be based on eligibility, and when the completed registration paperwork was received. One winner will be chosen based on audience participation. Prince Productions, LLC officials/Designees will determine the winner and their decision is final.

Contest Procedure
Contestants must register no later than Wednesday, 1/3/11. This form must be signed and completed and either mailed to Prince Productions, PO Box 20973, Greenfield, WI 53220, OR sent via e-mail at
byprince@aol.com. There is no entry fee for contestants.

Registration form

Winner of the karaoke contest at Kalani's

2010-12-09T06:00:00.004-06:00

I recently put in a plug for the karaoke contest at Roma's with the fabulous Kalani as host. The contest was last Saturday. I am proud to say that one of my Facebook friends, Karn Orner, took first place! Here she is holding one of the most awesome trophies I have ever seen.

Karn knocked 'em dead with "Last Dance" and "Redneck Woman".

Congratulations, Karn!!

Karaoke capitol of the US

2010-12-08T22:02:00.000-06:00

Songkick just announced the results. Madison and Milwaukee are in the top ten cities for live rock music! Those busy folks at Songkick computed the number of rock shows per capita for all major cities in the US, and ranked them.

Madison was #2. Milwaukee was #6.

Songkick unfortunately did not look at karaoke venues per capita, which is sad, since my own diligent research shows that there are regularly just a whole bunch of karaoke gigs in the Milwaukee area. As I write this, there are 157 venues listed. Wow. What other city can claim that? I mean, you go to bars to sing karaoke, and where can you find more bars per capita??!?!

So... here are my results. Based on my extensive research (of one city), Milwaukee is the karaoke capitol of the US, with the most karaoke venues per capita! You heard it here first!

Motown karaoke tonight!

2010-12-05T11:02:00.000-06:00

Tonight, Revelator Karaoke will be bringing you the hits of Motown in karaoke format. We have The Temptations, The Drifters, The Four Tops, The O'Jays, The Righteous Brothers, The Tokens, The Spinners, The Dell-Vikings, The Coasters, The Spaniels, The Platters, The Marvalettes, The Moonglows, Marvin Gaye with and without Tammie Terrell, Tina Turner with and without Ike, Lionel Richie with and without the Commodores, Lionel Richie with and without Dianna Ross, Diana Ross with and without the Supremes, Michael Jackson, Mary Wells, Barry White, Dionne Warwick, Jimmy Ruffin, Anita Baker, Al Green, Roberta Flack, James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Bill Withers, Little Richard, Ray Charles, Luther Vandross, Wilson Pickett, Big Joe Turner, Sam Cooke, Sam and Dave, Stevie Wonder, The Jackson 5, B. B. King, Ben E. King, KC and the Sunshine Band, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Kool and the Gang, Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, Sly and the Family Stone, Frankie Vallie and the Four Seasons, Junior Walker and the All Stars, Little Anthony and the Imperials...

and best of all, we bring you Sventhony and the Revelator.

No hip-hop. No rap. Strictly Old School.

MJ Cafe
A Relaxed Eatery and Martini Bar
in the Sequoia Shopping Center (near the Post Office)
6901 W. Brown Deer Road
Milwaukee
(414) 377-2524

Specials on martinis. Specials on wings. Karaoke starts at 7:30.

Review of karaoke at AJs

2010-12-04T10:28:00.000-06:00

AJ's Bar & Grill is located just a short drive west of Milwaukee on Muskego Lake. Stop by on the first and third Friday of every month starting at 9:00pm for a few hours of karaoke fun with DJ Dan. You'll be amazed by our selection of song titles - all-digital and constantly updated. AJ's features a spacious dining area with pool tables and a large stage for you to show off your moves along with your karaoke skills. We have multiple cordless mics so that your friends can join you on and off the stage. We've got plenty of juice to fill the hall, along with a floor monitor so that you can hear yourself just as well as your friends do. We look forward to seeing you in Muskego!

Review submitted 12/4/2010 by DJ Dan himself

For the complete listings of karaoke in the area, check out Milwaukee Karaoke Scene.

Changes in venues, Dec. 4, 2010

2010-12-04T09:45:00.000-06:00

I heard from Linda that D&D Sports Bar and Grill (West Allis) will no longer be doing karaoke on Friday nights.

I heard from two local KJs about karaoke some new karaoke venues. Dan Fritz told me about a Friday night gig he has had for a while at AJ's Bar and Grill in Muskego, but he also told me he has a new gig for Wednesday nights at the Branded Steer 2 (near Hwy 45 and Good Hope).

Jim Edgeworth let me know about his gig on Saturday's at Pillar's Pub in West Bend.

For the complete listings, check out Milwaukee Karaoke Scene.

Follow up: Avon voices singing / song writing competition

2010-12-01T12:04:00.001-06:00

Avon is sponsoring an online talent search for female singers that launches today (Dec. 1). A total of 200 finalists will travel to a variety of exciting locations and two of them will have the opportunity to record an album with the pros.

For more details have a look at these sites:
http://www.avonvoices.com/
http://www.multivu.com/players/English/45814-avon-voices/

Tune in today at 2:45 PM ET for a LIVE Twitter Q&A with Fergie, Diane Warren and Andrea Jung as they answer questions from featured bloggers from around the world. Access the Twitter Q&A here http://www.twitter.com/avonvoices or by following #avonvoices.

Avon voices singing / song writing competition

2010-11-30T06:00:00.003-06:00

Avon Voices is Avon's first global online singing talent search for women and songwriting competition for anyone. This new initiative helps mark Avon's 125^th Anniversary and offers women from 60+ countries a chance to compete online and be featured on a professionally produced album. There are three ways to participate:

·         Singing: Women can choose from a pre-selected song list and submit video entries online at www.AvonVoices.com beginning December 1, 2010. Submissions close February 13, 2011.
·         Writing: Both women and men can submit original songs celebrating hope, optimism and empowerment at www.AvonVoices.com
·         Voting: Anyone can register to check out Avon Voices talent search contenders, vote for their favorites and share their opinions throughout the year.

Nearly 200 global contenders will be chosen by a panel of judges to travel to one of four cities around the world to record their individual videos and receive an Avon's makeover. Avon Voices will culminate with the production and performance of an Anthem written by Diane Warren, sung by the finalists and available for digital download with proceeds going to Avon's campaign to end violence against women and girls.

Karaoke finals at Roma's

2010-11-29T21:21:00.001-06:00

This Saturday night, Roma's has the finals to their big karaoke contest, hosted by Kalani. 1st prize $400.00, 2nd prize $200.00 and 3rd is a $100.00 Roma's gift certificate.

Finalists have already been selected, so come on out to hear some great singing!

Roma's
N8416 Cty Rd ES
East Troy, WI
(262) 642-5353

Changes in venues,Nov 27, 2010

2010-11-27T12:38:00.000-06:00

There are quite a number of changes since my last update.

New listings

Mon	Spanky's Hideaway	WKDJ	5208 W County Line Rd	Mequon	(262) 242-3677	9:00 PM
Tue	Butler Inn	DJ Eddie	12400 W Hampton	Butler	(262) 783-5899	9:30 PM
Wed	Donges Bay Clubhouse	WKDJ	7520 W Donges Bay Rd	Mequon	(262) 238-1733	8:00 PM
Wed	Paulie's		8031 W Greenfield	West Allis	(414) 455-4723
Thur	Vitucci's	WKDJ	1832 E North	Milwaukee	(414) 273-6477	10:00 PM
Sun	MJ Café	Sven	6901 W Brown Deer Rd	Milwaukee	(414) 377-2524	7:30 PM

Removed listings

Wed	Terri Lynn's
Thi	Flat Tire Pub
Fri	Cackle Jack's Sports Bar
Fri	New Colony Inn
Sat	Dog's Bullocks
Sun	Bottoms Up
Sun	Wild Bill's

Notes
The Bulter Inn is doing "country Karaoke".
The MJ Cafe is doing "Motown Karaoke".
Terri Lynn's... I'm not sure. WKDJ is no longer running karaoke there on Wednesday. I don't know if Penny has taken that night over.
The New Colony Inn has closed. I know that Krissy was running karaoke at Double Gee. I will update that listing when I get more info.

Introducing Motown Karaoke at MJ Cafe

2010-11-24T20:21:00.000-06:00

I am happy to announce that Sven & John the Revelator will be running Motown Karaoke on Sunday nights at the brand new MJ Cafe. Sven and I are both excited that there will finally be a place that features Motown and old school R&B! Come on in for the martini specials and wings.

Opening night - Sunday night, December 5th, 7:30 - midnight
MJ Cafe
A relaxed eatery and martini bar
6901 W. Brown Deer Rd
Milwaukee
(414) 377-2524

Karaoke with Sven (and John the Revelator) at Whiskey River

2010-11-17T17:04:00.001-06:00

Whiskey River Saloon (formerly Bootleggers) will be opening this weekend, and karaoke will be running on this coming Monday, November 22. I will not be there that night, but Sven will do his normal wonderful job of hosting. Karaoke starts at 9:00.

Whiskey River bar staff

Karaoke contest at Frank's Power Plant, Nov. 20

2010-11-13T16:27:00.000-06:00

Ric Fest Scholarship Fundraiser
The Ricardo Correa Scholarship Foundation is hosting a fundraiser to raise money for scholarships in 2011 on Saturday, November 20, at Frank’s Power Plant in Bayview (2800 Kinnickinick). It will have a drag show starting at 8:30 p.m. followed by a karaoke contest. Prizes for the karaoke contest will be a quarter barrel to the grand prize winner; $25 gift certificate to the 2nd place; and $10 gift certificate to the 3rd place winner. The contest is open to all singers. During Ric Fest, there will also be a silent auction. All money raised will be split between the state and the national scholarship.

Following Ric Fest, Glitter Stage Productions will be hosting a drag show fundraiser at Mona’s on Sunday, December 12, 2010 at 9:00 p.m. sharp. The proceeds will benefit the scholarships.

This past summer, Ric Fest went national, raising almost $1,500 of the $2,000 that will be given out this summer in Chicago at the NEA Convention. Ric Fest will still be giving out a state scholarship this spring. Check out more about the scholarship at the new website at ricfest.org.

For anyone interested in getting involved with the planning of Ric Fest, the next meeting will be at Frank's Power Plant on Monday, Nov. 15 at 5:30 p.m.

http://www.quest-online.com/NewFiles/QuestXVII-19.html

MySpace karaoke contest - Christina Aguilera concert!!

2010-11-13T12:51:00.000-06:00

OMG! These folks at MySpace Karaoke are just karaoke contest animals!

Just a few weeks ago, I had the privilege to announce that MySpace karaoke had a karaoke contest running for tickets to a Sugarland contest. Tickets, travel accommodations, backstage pass, the whole nine yards.

Well guess what? Those crazy overachievers are doing it again. Well... not another Sugarland contest, cuz that would be redundant. This contest, running 11/9 through 11/23, is for tickets to meet Christina Aguilera. Travel, lodging, concert tickets, backstage pass.

Record yourself singing a Christina Aguilera ballad, and Christina herself will choose the winner. I have already heard some good versions on MySpace karaoke, so bring your game.

Just in case you are the winner and get a chance to meet her back stage, please do me a favor and mention that I want to apologize for the last 13,412 love letters that I have sent to her. My therapist has helped me to realize that the first 457 love letters would have been sufficient. Ask her if maybe I could take her to lunch to apologize in person? I mean, after the restraining order has been lifted, of course.

Live band karaoke at Bar Louie

2010-11-07T12:57:00.002-06:00

Bar Louie in Bayshore Mall will be offering karaoke with a live band on the night before Thanksgiving:

http://milwaukeebands.net/showshowdetail.asp?display=detail&showid=54978

Online karaoke contest!!

2010-10-30T21:03:00.001-05:00

I have brought in my imaginary groupie, Serena, to interview me about an exciting online karaoke contest!

Serena: So tell me about this online karaoke contest. Important things first... what's the first prize?
Revelator: Two tickets to a Sugarland concert, complete with airfare and accommodations.

Serena: Sugarland? That's that board game, right? Kinda like Chutes and Ladders only with a bit more strategy?
Revelator: Sometimes, I get to thinking my imaginary groupies might be a little young. No, Sugarland is a country duo. They did the songs Stay, Want To, Something More...

Serena: I knew that. Do you think Jennifer Nettles is hot? Hotter than me?
Revelator: You're an imaginary groupie, aren't you? Of course you're hotter than Jennifer Nettles.

Serena: Where are you running this contest, Revelator?
Revelator: I'm not running the contest.

Serena: Too bad...you're the best KJ in the galaxy.
Revelator: And you're the best groupie.

Serena: Where do you go to enter the contest?
Revelator: MySpace karaoke.

Serena: Is that a bar in Milwaukee?
Revelator: No, it's a website.

Serena: A website???!?!? Who do they have for a KJ?
Revelator: They don't have a KJ... you just record your song right there at that website in the privacy of your own home.

Serena: No KJ? Doesn't that kinda make you feel like an empty bag of Doritos, just blowing around in the ditches of some small mid-western community?
Revelator: No. Well... maybe. Well... I still have all my imaginary groupies. Does Myspace karaoke have any imaginary groupies?

Serena: Back to the contest -- you record a video online, and post it to Myspace karaoke, right? How soon do you need to get it posted?
Revelator: You have until 3:00 PM on Nov. 11.

Serena: Then what?
Revelator: Sugarland watches the videos and decides who the winner is.

Serena: Wow. Is that fair? Sugarland is judging their own contest? How come you aren't judging the contest, Mr. Revelator?
Revelator: Well, no one asked me.

Serena: It sucks being you! I'm gonna go start practicing Don't Stop Believing.
Revelator: Umm... You do an awesome Journey, but you need to record a Sugarland song for the contest.

Serena: I knew there was a catch somewhere.
Revelator: ... and you need to be real to enter, Serena. You are really hot, and you do an awesome Journey, but you are still imaginary.

Serena: Oh well. Gets me every time.

Frank N Stein is closing

2010-10-29T17:55:00.000-05:00

Frank N Stein was the only place in town that served karaoke every night of the week... Sadly, they will be closing their doors.

http://www.onmilwaukee.com/bars/articles/houseoffrankclosed.html

Karaoke and Costume contest at Frank's Power Plant

2010-10-25T21:59:00.000-05:00

Frank’s Power Plant 2800 S. Kinnickinnic Ave. frankspowerplant.net Saturday, Oct. 30, 8:30 p.m. get your Halloween fix for free at the Power Plant’s Moonlight Karaoke and Costume Contest.

http://halloween-2010.org/halloween-bar-guide-2010

Changes in venues, Oct. 17, 2010

2010-10-17T12:50:00.000-05:00

I have been doing some house cleaning... so there are lots of changes to report to the Milwaukee karaoke listings page!

Added

Tues	Lenny's	2715 W. Wisconsin	Milwaukee
Wed	BarNone	1139 N Water	Milwaukee
Wed	China Inn	10539 Forest Home	Hales Corners
Wed	D&D Sports Bar	1022 S 60th	West Allis
Wed	Su Casa I	N81 W15094 Appleton	Menomonee Falls
Thu	Flat Tire Pub	105 W Freistadt Rd	Thiensville
Thu	Su Casa II	N64 W22648 Main	Sussex
Fri	Eric's Porter-Haus	229 Wisconsin	Waukesha
Fri	Hairy Lemon Irish Pub	2102 Hwy 164	Richfield
Fri	On The Rocks	W282 N7149 Main	Merton
Sat	Dog's Bullocks	2321 N Murray	Milwaukee
Sat	On The Rocks	W282 N7149 Main	Merton
Sun	Bottoms Up	12504 W Hampton	Butler

Moved
Cackle Jacks, from Tuesday to Friday
Eagles Club, from Saturday to Friday

Removed

Little Dopp's

White House

Frozen Rope Bar

LaVeer's

Vitucci's Cocktail Lounge

Painted Parrot

Karaoke contest in Sussex / Merton

2010-10-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

I just found out about a karaoke contest starting Oct 23rd in the towns of Sussex and Merton, WI. There will be six weeks of qualifying, followed by the semi-finals and then the finals on Dec 11. The prize is $300!

Here is the schedule (sorry it's complicated.)

Qualifying ($10 entry fee)
Sat Oct 23rd at On the Rocks
Fri Oct 29th at On The Rocks
Tue Nov 2nd at Shooters Bar and Grill
Sat Nov 13th at On The Rocks
Fri Nov 19th at On The Rocks
Tue Nov 23rd at Shooters Bar and Grill

Semi-finals (top 12)
Fri Dec 3rd at Shooters Bar and Grill

Finals (featuring the top 6)
Sat Dec 11th at On the Rocks

On the Rocks is at W282 N7149 Main in Merton WI (262) 538-9941
Shooters Bar and Grill is at W220 N6437 Town Line Rd, Sussex (262) 820-0558

Questions? Call Music Masters Entertainment at (262) 510-6131.

Good luck to all!!!
John the Revelator

Changes in venues, Oct. 15, 2010

2010-10-15T06:00:00.021-05:00

I have numerous updates to report today to the Milwaukee karaoke lineup:

Bay View Sports Bar and Grill no longer has karaoke on Monday nights, since it conflicts with Monday night football. What's up with that? How about some priorities!!?!? They still have karaoke on Wednesday. Call them at (414) 481-3969. (Thank you, Chad!)

A new spot: Milwaukee Brat House on Old World Third has karaoke on Thursday nights. Thanks for the tip, Anonymous!

Badgerland SportZone in West Bend (262) 353-3322 will be having karaoke on Friday night instead of Thursday.

Shooters Bar and Grill in Sussex(262) 820-0558 has karaoke on Thursday nights.

Highbury Pub on Kinnickinnic (414) 294-4400 had karaoke on Sunday nights starting at 10:00 PM.

Also... Bootleggers will be closed for a few weeks and will reopen under the name Whiskey River Saloon. Expect to see karaoke again on Monday nights. I will keep you posted about when.

For the full listing of Milwaukee area karaoke, visit my website.
John the Revelator

Update on Bootleggers / Whiskey River Saloon

2010-10-14T08:07:00.003-05:00

Karaoke starting up at Whiskey River - update from Nov. 17

I just got this FaceBook invitation.

I have not heard anything official, but it sounds like we will not be having Wing N Sing on Oct 18th. I would expect that Wing N sing will return on November 8th (perhaps?) under the new name "Whiskey River Saloon".

Where to go for karaoke on Monday nights in the mean time? Clearly, there is no place better than Bootleggers, but check my karaoke listings page for other places to go.

Previous posting on Bootleggers

Cool Water in St. Francis

2010-10-12T00:45:00.000-05:00

Cool Water in St. Francis used to run karaoke on Saturday night. They have unfortunately closed, so there will not be karaoke there.

Update on Bootleggers

2010-10-12T00:34:00.001-05:00

Karaoke resumes on Mon, November 22!

Here is the latest on Bootleggers. The bar has new owners. The current plan is that the place will be shut down November 1st for remodeling. It will reopen the day before Thanksgiving under the new name: Whiskey River Saloon.

The great staff will not be changing. I have spoken with a number of the employees and they are all pretty excited about this. It's all good stuff.

And, most important, there will still be Monday night Wing N Sing. (yes!)

The dates for remodeling are subject to change, so keep watching this blog for updates. I will let you know as soon as I find anything out.

Bootleggers will be changing hands....

2010-10-06T21:47:00.000-05:00

There have been rumors floating around about Bootleggers in Milwaukee. This is what I know right now. Bootleggers Milwaukee has been sold to a new owner. They will be closed for remodeling for three weeks in November and will open under a new name. I understand that the current employees will carry over. Everyone I have talked with is very optimistic about the change.

As for karaoke, that decision lies in the hands of the new owners. I have not yet spoken with them yet, so I can only guess, but I expect that they would wish to continue Milwaukee's best karaoke!

John the Revelator

Changes in venues, Oct. 1, 2010

2010-10-02T08:50:00.000-05:00

Karaoke with Edge Entertainment at Badgerland SportZone will be moving from Thursday to Friday nights. Badgerland is located at 3680 Hwy NN, in West Bend, (262) 353-3322.

For the full listing of karaoke in the Milwaukee area, click here.

Changes in venues, Sept. 28, 2010

2010-09-28T21:05:00.000-05:00

I understand that the Butler Inn will not be running karaoke. They used to have Tuesday and Saturday. I will keep you posted if they decide to pick it up again. Thanks for the tip, Gee!

TGI Friday's in Brookfield (17430 W. Bluemound Rd, Brookfield (262) 641-9215) is apparently now running karaoke on Thursday nights with DJ Bob of Soundsational DJs, and on Saturday with DJ Eddie.

Ryan mentioned that the two new places in Richfield might not always be running karaoke, so please be sure to call ahead.
Jamie's Place on Friday night, 2763 Hwy 175, Richfield, (262) 644-0906
Pioneer Bowl on Saturday night, 1801 Hwy 175, Richfield, (262) 628-4020

For the complete Milwaukee listings, click here

Milwaukee Magazine, Best karaoke of 2010

2010-09-17T23:19:00.001-05:00

I just got the October issue of Milwaukee Magazine, which features their annual "Best of Milwaukee" guide. This year, I am very proud to say that I, John the Revelator, am listed as the best of Milwaukee. I quote the article below:

Karaoke Night
It's hard to find a hip karaoke place in Milwaukee - the few options tend to be old-fashioned and kitschy. Unless, of course, you happen to be out on a Monday night and find yourself at Bootleggers Bar & Grill (1025 N. Old World Third St.). There, you will find emcees John The Revelator and Sven as well as a catalog of over 8,500 songs. The crowd is young, the songs are hip, the sound system is booming. And if you're really good, you'll get an inflatable guitar as a parting gift.

Wow. It's nice to be recognized for doing well at something you love! Thank you Milwaukee Magazine.

John the Revelator

Another review of Bootleggers

Changes in venues, Sept. 16, 2010

2010-09-16T21:06:00.000-05:00

I have numerous updates to my Milwaukee Karaoke listings...

New places added
Wednesday and Friday at Bobby Rockets in Burlington
Wednesday at Remingtons with Marcus
Friday at Jamie's Place in Richfield
Saturday at Pioneer Bowl in Richfield
Sunday at Town Square in Trevor, WI (south of Burlington just north of the Illinois border)

Updated time
Pirate's Cove in Delavan, karaoke starts at 8:00.

Changes of KJ
Tuesday at Historic Red Mill, Kalani will be taking over for Kim Marie
Thursday and Friday at Roma's (East Troy) - I erroneously had Kalani as the KJ, sorry

I would like to thank all the folks who are helping me keep this up to date! Thank you Kalani and Marcus for updating your gigs. Thank you Dale of Brew City Music for letting me know where you have gigs. Thank you Ryan for pointing me to the new spots in Richfield.

Please let me know of any other changes, and keep those reviews coming in!

John the Revelator

Changes in venues, Sept. 7, 2010

2010-09-07T22:58:00.001-05:00

Karaoke on Wednesdays at Fridays

I have added a new spot to the karaoke listings ... TGI Fridays in Greenfield (4638 S 76th) has karaoke on Wednesdays, starting at 9:30. Shawn is the KJ. (I think this would be Shawn Everts. Not sure.) As usual, call before you drive. (414) 281-7896.

Thanks for the tip, Adam!

Changes in venues, Aug. 29, 2010

2010-08-29T09:17:00.001-05:00

I have updated my Milwaukee Karaoke listings...

B's Club Velvet in Waukesha has closed. They used to have a karaoke show on Sundays.

Changes in venues, Aug. 21, 2010

2010-08-21T15:02:00.001-05:00

I have updated my Milwaukee Karaoke listings...

I understand that Cataldo's on KK is now Rocco's and no longer is running karaoke. They did have karaoke Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.

I don't know how this slipped under my radar before, but TATS in Cudahy has karaoke on Wednesday, as well as Thursday and Saturday.

Review of Thursday night karaoke at TATS

2010-08-03T06:00:00.006-05:00

Review of TATS

(Thursday Night) (July 2010)
This neighborhood bar and grill is home to a Top Shelf Entertainment Karaoke show. With her computer equipment and vast music library, KJ Patty keeps the show flowing with a standard Two-Song format. In the event of a large crowd, the single-song format is enforced so that anyone who wants to sing, has the opportunity to do so. An occasional music video picks up the pace between singers who select ballads. Karaoke singers performing at the front of the bar room have a choice of two microphones: one for quiet singers and the other for louder singers, and KJ Patty adjust for volume accordingly. There are three monitors, one for the singer, and two for patrons to follow along. Even the bartender sings! For added fun, KJ Patty gives all patrons a raffle ticket for a chance to win “cheesy door prizes.” First time singers get a second ticket for door prizes. Woo-hoo!! Tatt’s Grill features 1/2 price burgers on Thursdays, which neighborhood regulars assure me are delish! Tatt’s is a great place where groups of friends can find dinner and entertainment at an extremely affordable price!

Review by Hobbs

Previous review Next review

Review of Friday night karaoke at Terri Lynn's

2010-08-02T06:00:00.004-05:00

Review of Terri Lynn's, Friday, July 30, 2010

I finally got a chance to visit Terri Lynn's (4740 Bradley Road) on a Friday Night. I had been wanting to meet Penny (Star Karaoke) for some time. Her gig at T's Everglades got a good review on this blog by TJB and I know he is a karaoke fanatic. And the folks at Terri Lynn's really think the world of her.

Penny is very clearly in the business because she loves it. And that's a great thing. The KJ can make or break a show. (Of course, I'm a KJ, so I would say that.) She can belt out a rich ballad or blues song. Two of her kids also got up to sing, and that was a treat.

There were (I think) about 50 people there. Enough of a crowd to get some energy going, but not crowded. Mixed ages... There were some in their mid twenties and thirties and forties, and some people who were possibly older than me even. I am guessing there were less than ten people who got up to sing, which is great cuz I got to sing every half hour or forty-five minutes. I found the clientele to be warm and fun loving. Maybe more on the side of "being there to enjoy socializing" than "being there to get drunk".

Penny broke up the karaoke with a bit of line dancing. A lot of dancers joined her on the floor. Personally, not my cup of tea, but I didn't mind watching.

I have reviewed the Wednesday night show at Terri Lyyn's before (different KJ), so I won't say any more about the place.

The amp and speakers work well with the venue. Enough power, and decent bass. Some of the rest of Penny's equipment is unfortunately not the highest quality. Her Radio Shack mics don't work well for all voices - they distort for voices with a lot of overtones and for people who hold the mic close. She is running her show off karaoke disks instead of a laptop, but she did manage to keep the show moving. Her selection of songs was (maybe) a bit limited? I didn't see Minnie the Moocher in her book. :(

Sorry Penny, but there are two other things that didn't work well for me... The computer display was off to the side, so, if a singer needed the words, they had to face away from the audience.

And she didn't have a monitor speaker. It makes a big difference if someone can hear their own voice. I'm not sure why so many KJs miss don't have monitor speakers. Do I need to educate people on this? Or is it a matter of not wanting to plop down another $200 to $500 for another speaker?

Ok, enough of me complaining. I don't know if I mentioned this... but I had a great time. I was planning on staying out until 11:00 or so, but... the best laid plans of mice and men.

Review by John the Revelator

Previous review Next review

Downtown Harrison

2010-08-01T06:00:00.001-05:00

I know this isn't exactly karaoke, but I gotta put a plug in for my buddy Downtown Harrison.

He puts on a great show. He has a great voice and impersonates a lot of singers: Sinatra, Elvis, Johnny Cash, Neil Diamond, James Brown, and Tina Turner. Yes. Tina Turner. When he does Rollin on the River with the blonde wig and the shiny dress, it's hard to tell the two apart. The one thing that will leave you amazed is the level of energy that the man puts into his shows. James Brown is no longer the hardest working man in show biz. Just incredible.

Have I got your attention?

Here is his upcoming schedule that I copied from his website:

Video Preview

Downtown Harrison

Mr.Roboto

Upcoming Events

St Elizabeth Ann Seton Festival, Sun, Aug 01

Downtown Harrison at Brookfield, Wed, Aug 18

Downtown Harrison at Zoo Ala Carte, Thu, Aug 19

Downtown Harrison at Ala Carte, Sun, Aug 22

Changes in venues, July 31, 2010

2010-07-31T10:10:00.000-05:00

I have updated my Milwaukee Karaoke listings with the following information. I am happy to have run into Penny of Star Karaoke. She's a busy lady!

Monday	Gene's Supper Club	Star Karaoke (Penny)	added
Monday	The Starting Gate	Platinum Entertainment	added
Monday	White House	WKDJ	added
Tuesday	Gene's Supper Club	Star Karaoke (Penny)	added
Tuesday	The Starting Gate	Platinum Entertainment	added
Wednesday	Gene's Lanes	Star Karaoke (Penny)	added
Thursday	Nostalgia II	Star Karaoke (Penny)	starts Sep 1
Sunday	T's Everglades	Star Karaoke (Penny)	updated KJ name

Does anyone have any other updates?

2010-07-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

Wanna hear some good karaoke singing? The Wisconsin finals for the World Karaoke Contest will be held at Washington County Fair on Saturday, July 24th. Be there to cheer on the male and female who will be moving on to the regional competition in El Paso.

Review of karaoke at Roma's

2010-07-22T17:32:00.000-05:00

Roma’s, East Troy, WI read a second opinion about Roma's
(Saturday Night, July 17)

Found ROMA'S to be extremely frustrating. Fair to moderate crowd (30's and above), but, there was a clique here and a clique there. Could count on one and a half hands WHO were ACTUALLY listening. Kalani (KJ) and wife, nice people. EXCESSIVE and CONSTANT skipping of the digitalized music,,, words on screen off center and difficult to follow,,, upstaging of singers allowed, with nothing said about it,,, sound system excellent for the audience, but, extremely hard to follow yourself while on stage,, so to speak. Small singing area. Kalani did his "Phantom of the Opera" schtick, which seemed to enthuse no one. ROMA'S NOT for the serious singer, song selection good,,, but, overall, I was curious based on the previous review, and my curiosity has been satisfied. LOW RATE production!

Review by TJB

Previous review Next review

Karaoke Idol competition at Bootleggers- $100 prize

2010-07-20T07:20:00.000-05:00

American Idol tryouts will be held at the Bradley Center on Wednesday, 7/21/2010. Needless to say, there will be a lot of people who like to sing. And a bunch of them will be thirsty for a beer after their tryouts. And they will be one block from Bootleggers.

This was just too good of an opportunity for the managers to pass up. Bootleggers is proud to announce "Karaoke Idol" competition for Wednesday, July 21. Open karaoke and sign up starts at 9:00. The contest starts at 10:00. The top five contestants will move on to the finals at midnight. Winner receives $100.

Need more to entice you? Bootleggers has $1 burgers from 5:00 to 8:00, $2 domestic taps and $3 Three Olive mixers from 5:00 to close.

Review of karaoke at Burnham Bowl

2010-07-18T06:00:00.003-05:00

Burnham Bowl- Fridays
Heavy distraction with the adjoining bowling alley, can be a bit rowdy, sound system iffy, song selection good, at times few singers,,, definitely NOT for the serious Karaoke singer!

review by TJB

Previous review Next review

Italian Idol Finals

2010-07-17T06:00:00.001-05:00

Just in case you want to hear some good karaoke singing, this is a reminder that the final round of competition for Italian Idol will be held Sunday night (July 18th) at Festa Italiana at the Summerfest grounds.

Review of karaoke at Butler Inn

2010-07-16T06:00:00.008-05:00

Butler Inn- Saturdays
First off, can be quite frustrating there, especially with the rather odd line-up method used by the KJ Eddie. Sign-up sheets with NO organization whatsoever. Singers added as they stroll in, no matter what time, while you may sit for HOURS waiting to sing again, even though your turn/rotation had long since passed. Excellent sound system and song selection,, all digital. Great receptive crowds, though,,, and usually, a host of excellent singers, until later in the evening when the younger crowd rolls in, and the booze is flowing, then,,,,,, mass confusion!! For the party singer, and NOT those who wish to sing MORE THAN ONE song. Small singing area, as well.

Review by TJB

Note... Butler Inn is not running karaoke at this time (Sept. 28, 2010). Maybe later?

Previous review Next review

Review of Karaoke at Red Mill

2010-07-15T06:00:00.003-05:00

Review of The Red Mill, by Hobbs

(Tuesday Night) (June 2010)
This charming and historic restaurant is a great place to go for dinner and a show! The Red Mill has a small dance floor that serves as a staging area just inside its entrance. Popular KJ Kim Marie keeps the show moving with a non-stop Single-Song format to accommodate the multitude of singers who turn out every week. Diners, bar patrons and other karaoke singers show great appreciation for the performers by putting the dance floor to good use. This fine venue is ideal for the serious karaoke singer ...and the burgers come highly recommended.

Previous review Next review

World karaoke contest update

2010-07-14T17:55:00.001-05:00

The West Bend Daily News has the following story on the Wisconsin trials for the World Karaoke competition. Complete with a few photos of contestants.

http://activepaper.olivesoftware.com/Repository/ml.asp?Ref=V0JETi8yMDEwLzA3LzE0I0FyMDAxMDk%3D&Mode=HTML&Locale=english-skin-custom

Review of karaoke at Clifford's

2010-07-14T12:56:00.005-05:00

Clifford's
Elevated stage puts you IN the spotlight. Excellent sound system and monitoring. Some nights just too many singers, some nights hardly any at all. Allowed to do just one song at a time, ALL NITE,,, even when early and not busy. Place can get packed up, with few opportunities to sing. Mixed age range of crowd,,, with a slight majority not caring too much about the singing. Excellent song selection, KJ "Fish" adds his expertise, good singer., keeps the show moving. Friday nites tend to be the nites in which you may sing only one, possibly 2 tunes. Younger Friday crowds, as well.

Review by TJB

Previous review Next review

World karaoke Championships reminder

2010-07-14T06:00:00.001-05:00

This is a reminder that Thursday and Friday (July 15 and 16, 2010) are the last two days to qualify for the Wisconsin karaoke championships. You can qualify at Badgerland SportZone (West Bend) on Thursday and Noey's Pub and Grill (St. Lawrence, near Hartford) on a Friday.

For more details, check my previous post.

Review of Wednesday night karaoke at Terri Lynn's

2010-07-13T06:00:00.006-05:00

Review of karaoke at Terri Lynn's, Wednesday, July 9, 2010 by John the Revelator

I had the honor of attending the first Wednesday night of karaoke at Terri Lynn's (4740 West Bradley Road, Brown Deer). I had a great time.

Slick Mick (of WKDJ) was the KJ that night. I know him well, since he is a regular at Bootleggers on Monday nights. Nick is very competent, soft spoken and good-natured. Since there weren't a lot of singers, Nick filled in with music between. His music was well chosen for the crowd, and you could see many people singing along with his fill-in music. I appreciate his skill at picking the fill-in music.

Personally, I would have set the music a little differently. I would probably have cut back just a bit on the highs, and also cut back on the backup karaoke music. Feel free to interpret this as either my own preference, or my

The venue is a bit sparse, but well-kept. The bar itself is about twenty stools long, and there were quite a number of four person banquet tables and chairs in the room. Plenty enough for a hundred people to be comfortable. The karaoke was set up on a stage that is easily seen throughout the room. If the crowd were larger, I think a slightly higher stage might be helpful.

The crowd was unfortunately a bit small, with about a dozen people. This is not a surprise, since this was the first Wednesday night that they had karaoke. In my own selfish way, I would like to see more people show up. This place is only a few miles from where I live!

The people there were wonderfully friendly, which is one reason I had so much fun. Chuck presented us with some blues songs that I didn't know. Sid did a good job on some motown. I didn't catch the name of another fellow who sang BB King's "The Thrill is Gone". My favorite performance was by Timone. She came out on the floor with the wireless mic and did a sultry version of Erykah Badu's "Call Up Tyrone" for Sid. The singing was good, the stage presence was priceless.

As for equipment, Nick brought along new and professional quality stuff. He was running only one main speaker that night, but there was plenty enough power for the venue.

I appreciated the fact that Nick also had a monitor speaker on the floor in front of the singer. It is so important for a singer to be able to hear his or herself. I have been to a lot of karaoke shows where there was not a monitor speaker. Sigh. This is one small thing that can have a big impact on the quality of the show.

The display of the words was somewhat less than ideal. Nick used the display from a portable DVD player to display the words. A little hard to read. He was also hooked into two of the TV screens on the walls of the bar, which is nice, but they were a bit far away to read.

Some details for the audiophile: he had a 15" powered Behringer speaker with a subwoofer -- I didn't catch the brand of the sub. The monitor speaker was a small but powerful JBL. His mixer was a 12 channel Mackie. There were two wireless mics. Note to self - ask Ran the Man what the mics were. I thought the quality was pretty good, but I am not sure they were tested on the most difficult voices.

Previous review Next review

Changes in venues

2010-07-12T21:21:00.001-05:00

I have updated my karaoke venue webpage with the following changes:

Monday	Bay View Sports Bar & Grill	Added
Wednesday	Bay View Sports Bar & Grill	Added
Friday	D & D Sports Bar and Grill	Added
Saturday	Winner's Circle	Added

John the Revelator

Karaoke contest at Bootleggers to coincide with American Idol tryouts

2010-07-12T20:48:00.000-05:00

Bootleggers is one short block from the Bradley Center, where tryouts for American Idol will be held on Wednesday, July 21st. What better way to welcome contestants than to have their own contest! First prize is $200.

Karaoke will be hosted by Milwaukee's premiere karaoke hosts, John the Revelator and Sven. Rumor has it that a karaoke celebrity will be making an appearance.

Review of karaoke at Final Approach

2010-07-12T06:00:00.003-05:00

Final Approach, Milwaukee, WI
(Saturday Night)

This restaurant has a small nook just inside the entrance to the bar that houses the karaoke equipment. There is no stage, and singers are tucked away and are very difficult to see from any angle of the room. A Two-Song Set format alternates with recorded music, both of which are very loud, leaving a singer voice lost in the mix. Bar patrons sat with their backs to the show and seem uninterested in the karaoke at all. At the time of this review, smoking was permitted in this establishment. The KJs were very friendly and encouraging to newcomers. They kept the show moving along and they themselves sang a couple of songs... and they were very good, too.
This karaoke venue is more for the party crowd.

Reviewed by Hobbs (March 2010)

Previous review Next review

Review of karaoke at T's Everglades

2010-07-11T12:30:00.004-05:00

T's Everglades- with Penny
    3910 W. Fond Du Lac Ave.
    Milwaukee- Sunday's- 9:30 PM
    Now,, talk about a great crowd,, EXCELLENT singers, EXCELLENT to moderate song selection, WONDERFUL sound system and audience reception. Penny keeps the show moving, the joint fills up by 10:30-11:00, or so. Bartenders beautiful and friendly, as was everyone else!! Only the one small monitor, though, in front of the singers. Plenty of room to roam and sing,, small area for dancing to the tunes. And, on the weekends, NO jeans or white t-shirts,, signs posted on the front door,, everyone looked GOOD!! Age range of crowd, upper 20's/lower 30's to us baby boomers! Get there early for a decent place tp park. For the serious Karaoke singer! Loved the place,, plan on going back again,,, SOON!

Review by TJB

Note from the Revelator - I just found out about T's Everglades... they are new to my karaoke listings website.

Previous review Next review

Italian Idol Competition

2010-07-11T06:00:00.001-05:00

Once again, the Italian Idol contest will be held at Festa Italiana at the Summerfest grounds. The qualifying rounds are at 8:00 PM on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (July 15, 16, and 17). Final competition will be on Sunday the 18th, at 8:00 PM.

Changes in venues, July 10, 2010

2010-07-10T11:54:00.000-05:00

I have updated my karaoke venue webpage with the following changes:

Friday	Arizona Grille	Removed
Friday	Terri Lynn's	Added

John the Revelator

Review of karaoke at Olympic Lanes

2010-07-09T06:00:00.004-05:00

Olympic Lanes, Milwaukee, WI
(Friday Night)

Olympic Lanes has a large and open venue with a small staging area which makes it easy to see the singers. The set up, however, causes those signing up to sing to walk in front of the performers, which is awkward and distracting.
Three monitors makes it easy for singers to face patrons on all sides, and roam occasionally. The Sound system is great for the audience, but the feedback monitor for the singers seemed lacking. While the program format is the alternating Single Song/Music Video variety that keeps the show moving, it also runs the risk of losing the serious karaoke patron. Music videos shown in between singers was of the current Pop variety and seemed louder than necessary for the size of the room and crowd. Audience response to performers was adequate and respectable. Drinking “Sociables” was encouraged, and at the time of this review, smoking was permitted.
This karaoke venue is for the casual karaoke singer and the 20- something crowd.

Reviewed by Hobbs (June 2010)

Previous review Next review

Changes in venues

2010-07-07T19:28:00.000-05:00

I have updated my karaoke venue webpage with the following changes:

Monday	Bay View Sports Bar & Grill	removed
Monday	Broadway Baby	added
Tuesday	LaVeer's	moved to Tue
Monday	Little Dopp's	added
Monday	White House	added
Tuesday	Cackle Jack's	added
Wednesday	Bay View Sports Bar & Grill	removed
Wednesday	Nickel's	added
Wednesday	Pendulum Pub	remove
Wednesday	Terri Lynn's	added
Thursday	Roma's Ristorante and Lounge	added
Thursday	Vitucci's Cocktail Lounge	changed KJ
Friday	Critic's Corner Pub	added
Friday	Noey's	added
Friday	Rafters	removed
Friday	Roma's Ristorante and Lounge	added
Saturday	Final Approach	changed KJ
Saturday	Night Court	remove
Saturday	Roma's Ristorante and Lounge	added
Sunday	City Lounge	added

Review of karaoke at Roma

2010-07-07T06:00:00.004-05:00

Roma’s, East Troy, WI
(Saturday Night)

Roma’s quaint bar area has a central bar with seating all around. Two corner staging areas are set up, one for Friday nights, the other for Saturday nights. The stage is small and makes it easier to see the singers from across the room. Two monitors are available for the singers and patrons to follow along.

From the perspectives of both the audience and the singer, the sound system and feedback monitors are good. There is no need to bring your own cds, for this karaoke show is digital. If you don’t see a title you want to sing in the song book, don’t worry: it probably is in the extensive computer library. This program is a format for the serious karaoke patron, non-stop amateur singing with the Two-Song Set. Beverages are not allowed on stage. At the time of this review, smoking was permitted.

KJ Kalani is an interactive emcee, with a set of large hand drums and harmonica which he occasionally plays in accompaniment with some singers. If requested, he will perform The Phantom of the Opera in full cape, hat and mask. Audience response to all singers was extremely appreciative. Kalani holds singing contests throughout the year. There is plenty of talent on tap.

This karaoke venue is definitely for the serious singer and mature karaoke crowd.
Reviewed by Hobbs (June 2010)

Previous review Next review

Review of karaoke at Frank N Stein

2010-07-04T06:00:00.003-05:00

House of Frank N' Stein

Saturday, June 5, Gypsy Songstress

As one of the few (maybe the only) local venues that boasts karaoke 7 nights of the week (yes, that’s every single night), we decided to finally pay a visit to House of Frank N’Stein. Already knowing the history of the building before arriving there (it was a funeral parlor in a previous “life”), we were prepared for the fact that it has a rather odd looking exterior. But that’s only the exterior. Inside, it is a very dark, plain (and I mean “no frills” with a small “n”) under-decorated bar/tavern. Mostly bar with a few tables and a pool table at the back. So if you’re looking for a place with a flashy remodel, and upscale décor, this isn’t it. Far from it. The restrooms could definitely benefit from a good cleaning and overhaul—and some air freshener. Probably the rest of the place could as well, but the lights are kept so dim, it’s too hard to actually tell how clean (or dirty) things are.

As its name suggests, there are really only two items available for “refreshment” here: hot dogs (franks) and beer (stein). Although, they were also offering some Mike’s hard lemonade the night we were there, but I don’t know if this is a regular thing. I actually asked for some ice water (okay, I’m not exactly a big drinker), and was told they had no ice.

On the plus, side the kj who was hosting the karaoke had a very upbeat and positive attitude. He offered singers a lot of encouragement. Another plus—being that there was such a small “crowd”—less than a dozen people including me and my husband—those of us who wanted to sing got ample opportunity. Unfortunately, the selection of songs was more than a bit limited. A few small books, with small print and the remains of what looked like more than a few spilled drinks, were scattered around the place. There was only a list by artist, no list by title. And then there was the sound system—not very high quality and with a lot of crackling when people held the mike too close. But the ultimate question was “did we have fun?” Well, yeah, we managed to have some fun. I mean everyone was very hospitable and it was quite helpful that the kj was so upbeat. Did I mention that other than me and my husband, everyone else seemed to be way ahead of us in the drinking department? Okay, so if you like to drink beer, want to get drunk, and enjoy singing or listening to karaoke, this is your kind of place.

Previous review Next review

Review of karaoke at the Bowery

2010-07-03T06:00:00.006-05:00

The Bowery, Franklin, WI
(Thursday Night)

This little, out-of-the-way establishment is a real neighborhood hang out. Tightly packed with it’s regular bar patrons and it’s various sponsored teams players, karaoke singers receive a friendly welcome here. Tucked in a corner at the front of the room is the KJ equipment and two monitors. There is no stage, so pool-shooting patrons have to stretch to see the singers over the other patrons from across the room. The sound level at the front of the room is uncomfortably high, and the music often seems louder than the singer’s voice. Generally speaking, the program is a Two-Song Set format, unless the individual singer prefers to perform only one song. If the title you’re looking for is not in the song book, just ask the KJ to search his vast digital library, and 9 times out of 10, he will have what you’re looking for. At the time of this review, the establishment allowed smoking.
You’ll find award-winning singers here as well as fun-loving amateurs.

This karaoke venue is for a mix of the 20- and 30-something crowd.
Reviewed by Hobbs (May 2010)

Previous review Next review

Review of Bootleggers Wing N Sing

2010-07-02T06:00:00.005-05:00

Last Monday night at Bootleggers was unbelievable.

In the spirit of truth in advertising, let me start with a disclaimer. I run karaoke at Bootleggers with my buddy Sven.

Bootleggers runs karaoke every Monday night along with a special on beer and wings. $10 gets you unlimited wings and unlimited beer. Naturally, we get crowds, typically one or two hundred people. This past Monday, with Summerfest going on, I was expecting that we would be lucky to see 100.

I totally missed the mark. There were just over 400 people that walked in that night! I didn't talk to every one of them, but it seemed like a good time was had by all.

At the end of the night there were 102 request slips... enough to keep us singing until at least 3:00 AM. We didn't stay that long.

We did have a decent sized group from the Lia Sephora conference, but that was perhaps 20 or 30 ladies? Thank you, by the way, you provided lots of positive energy.

And we had a lot of the regulars... B-Rad and the Boyz, Sunshine, Luke, Chad, Cassandra, Becca, Josh, Dre, Dante, Mike, Savonnie, Marvin, Slick Nick, and of course, Marty... thank you, thank you, thank you!

What will the 5th of July bring? I can't wait. Sven has declared it a suit-up night to celebrate the first night of smoke-free bars.

Previous review Next review

Karaoke contest in Muskego

2010-07-02T06:00:00.004-05:00

Join us Saturday July 24th as Pioneer Inn presents - Muskego Idol's Summer -Karaoke Series! DJ/TJ of Mainstreet Music will host and MC the first installment of this summer karaoke contest.

The karaoke qualifying dates are:
Saturday, July 24th - 7pm to 11pm - Pioneer Inn
Saturday, August 21st - 7pm to 11pm - Pioneer Inn

We will have 2 categories to judge
Best Singing Performance and
Best Overall Performance

The top 4 contestants from each qualifying date will compete in the finale showcase on September 18th at Markyfest! All are encouraged to participate, Solo's, Duets, Group singing! The more the merrier. Contestants will receive prizes for participating, drink specials and the Grand prize will be announced shortly. Mark your calendars boys and girls for MUSKEGO IDOL!!!!!!!

In the words of Randy "The Dawg" Jackson, It's gonna be a hot one yo!

Spread the Word

Marx Pioneer Inn
(262) 971-1171

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=111848948845369&index=1

Review of karaoke at City Lounge

2010-07-01T06:00:00.003-05:00

City Lounge, Cudahy, WI
(Sunday Night)

Smoke-free City Lounge has a quaint eccelectic Old Milwaukee decor. It has a roomy stage from which all singers can be seen. It has four monitors for singers and audience to follow along. The sound equipment lacks somewhat in that the music is often louder than the singer’s voice. At the time of this review, the digital equipment seemed faulty to the point where the music and words would often go out of sync, and the KJ would have to resort to cds. This doesn’t stop the patrons from having fun in this Single Song format. The show keeps moving at a steady pace, with no need for music videos between singers. Fellow singers and audience members alike show enthusiasm and appreciation. It is an upbeat, fun and friendly atmosphere.
This karaoke venue is for serious and silly singers alike.

Reviewed by Hobbs (May 2010)

Previous review Next review

More bars listed in Google maps

2010-07-01T06:00:00.002-05:00

Luke has posted the following on the John the Revelator and Sven's Karaoke Cult Facebook page:

Luke Zepnick Updates to the karaoke venue map are finally here! More bars in more places! Check it out!