Why Do Queers Love Karaoke So Much?
Karaoke, a popular pastime across the globe, resonates uniquely within the LGBTQ2Si+ community. It isn't just a fun activity but a significant part of our cultural and social expression.
Karaoke in Queer Spaces: A bit of History
Karaoke, originating in Japan, quickly spread worldwide as a popular form of entertainment. Its universal appeal lies in its ability to bring people together, regardless of musical ability.
In the queer community, karaoke emerged as a vibrant part of the nightlife, particularly during the late 20th century. In the 1980s and 1990s, amid the backdrop of the AIDS crisis and heightened social stigma, karaoke bars served as sanctuaries for the queer community. In cities like San Francisco and New York, karaoke nights at gay bars became popular gathering spots, offering a sense of normalcy and joy during a tumultuous time.
In the early 2000s, as the fight for LGBTQ+ rights gained momentum, karaoke nights began to serve as informal fundraising events. Bars like The Stonewall Inn in New York, known for its historical significance in the gay rights movement, hosted karaoke evenings where the community came together not just for entertainment, but to support causes and foster a sense of unity.
In other parts of the world, such as Tokyo and Seoul, karaoke has been a staple in queer districts, providing a discreet yet expressive outlet for LGBTQ+ individuals in societies where being openly queer was, and in some cases still is, frowned upon. These karaoke sessions are not just about singing; they were about reclaiming a part of the public sphere that was often denied to them.
Singing Out Loud: Karaoke as a Form of Self-Expression
For many queer individuals, karaoke offers a rare opportunity to express themselves freely and boldly. It allows us to explore different facets of our identity in a supportive environment.
Music plays a pivotal role in queer culture, with certain songs becoming anthems that resonate deeply within the community. Karaoke nights often feature these songs, creating moments of shared experience and connection.
Karaoke Nights: Community and Togetherness
Karaoke nights in Vancouver often turn into supportive gatherings where individuals bond over shared experiences. We'll list some regular karaoke nights at the bottom of this article.
Karaoke most often takes place in bars which offer an environment where individuals can be themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination. In Vancouver, karaoke is popular among the queer bars in the downtown West End.
And karaoke encourages individuals to step out of their comfort zones! The act of performing can be a liberating experience, helping to build confidence and a sense of empowerment.
For the queer community, karaoke can be an act of liberation. It's a space where people are able to express themselves in ways they might not be able to in other areas of their lives.
And let’s not forget - Singing is a Stress Reliever!
Studies have shown that singing can significantly reduce stress levels. For queer individuals, karaoke offers a therapeutic escape from the stresses associated with navigating a heteronormative society. If any of you have sung with a choir, a band, or even with a group of friends on a Friday night, you’ll know how amazing the simple act of singing together can be for our mental health. I sing with a chorus, and I’ve dragged myself to rehearsal many times in a dark mental state only to come away feeling on top of the world.
So Why do Queers love karaoke so much?
The queer community's love for karaoke is rooted in history, and nurtured by a desire for expression, community, and liberation. Karaoke is more than just entertainment; it's an integral part of queer culture and offers a space for joy, solidarity, and community. In short, we love it because it brings people together, is a lot of fun, and makes us feel good.
Karaoke nights in Vancouver
Many of the regular Vancouver Karaoke nights are hosted by Triumph Entertainment, an LGBTQ & indigenous-owned company that produces weekly Karaoke shows in Vancouver. They also do weddings and private parties. You can follow them on Facebook or Instagram.
Sundays
🎤 NUMBERS CABARET
1042 Davie St
10pm - 3am
Mondays
🎤 THE FOUNTAINHEAD
1025 Davie St
9pm - 1am
Tuesday *New*
🎤 SCORE ON DAVIE
1262 Davie St
9pm - 12 am
Wednesday
🎤 BIMINI'S PUB & LOUNGE
2010 W 4th Ave (Kitsilano area)
8pm - 12am
🎤 THE PUMPJACK
1167 Davie St
9pm - 1am
Thursdays
🎤 NUMBERS CABARET
1st, 3rd, & 5th Thursday of the month
1042 Davie St
10pm - 3am
🎤 D/6 BAR & LOUNGE
39 Smithe St (6th floor @ Parq Casino)
8pm - 12am
Fridays
🎤 BC KITCHEN
39 Smithe St (2nd floor @ Parq Casino)
9pm - 1am
Queer Choirs in Vancouver
Q Choir - Community choir for queer and trans folks, 2SLGBTQIA+, allies, beginner friendly, all welcome!
Out in Harmony - We are gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, two-spirited and supportive straight individuals who are proud of who we are, both as individuals and as a choir. We sing in harmony, and we live in harmony as people from all walks of life.
Rainbow Chorus New Westminster - We are a non-auditioned community choir bringing together members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and their allies, to join voices and share the joy of singing.
Jude Goodwin is a queer artist and writer living in Vancouver, BC.