How to Start a Karaoke Business

Karaoke has been around for decades and likely will be for many more. If you enjoy singing, making people laugh and meeting new people, starting a karaoke business could prove fun and rewarding. A combination of karaoke favorites and the latest tunes are keys to a successful karaoke business. Service the typical bar crowd or don a suit and host private parties for kid’s birthdays, proms, weddings and bachelorette parties. Market your business accordingly.

Step 1
Develop a niche for yourself as a way to separate yourself from other karaoke hosts. A signature outfit is one way to become memorable. Demonstrate professionalism at all times. Compete by offering to record and burn the music for those karaoke singers who want to capture their performances. Consider hosting theme nights. Although a diverse music collection is a must, certain venues may prefer oldies, rock or hip hop.

Step 2
Purchase a digital karaoke system, quality speakers, CD+Gs (music), hauling equipment, wireless microphones, mixer, amplifiers and a television monitor. Many systems come packaged with additional music. Have a tool kit and duct tape on hand for any immediate repairs.

Step 3
Create an organized system for your music. Invest in at least four well organized books. Many karaoke books are organized alphabetically. Instead, organize by type of music, which can make searching that much easier for drunk people. Save your music lists in a folder on your computer that can be easily modified each month as you add new music. If using computerized equipment, consider allowing customers to tell you what song they want so that you can search for it. Searching through karaoke books can be laborious: customers will appreciate the gesture.

Step 4
Start a website or blog for your karaoke business. Include pictures (always ask customers first), private party rates, information about your equipment, your upcoming schedule and how you differ from other karaoke DJs. Particularly if you host theme nights, include this on your site. Customers may flock to a karaoke bar that they know will only be playing their kind of music.

Step 5
Grab the yellow [ages and create a spreadsheet of all of the bars, pubs and cafes in your area. In addition to hosting karaoke, you may want to sponsor “Open Mic” nights at local coffee houses. Call or visit each bar to find out who the owners are currently working with and to pitch your idea. Focus on how your professionalism and state of the art equipment can lure in additional clientele. Discuss how you differ from other karaoke hosts in the area, such as be being professional and reliable.

Step 6
Develop a contract that details the duration of the event, payment details and any additional preferences, such as dedications to the bride.

Things Needed

• Karaoke system

• Music

• Speakers

• Amp

• Microphones

• Contract

• Website
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Tips 
  

  • Don’t hog the microphone. While you should take every opportunity to warm or entertain the crowd, don’t do it at the expense of those who would like to sing.
    

  • Always check your equipment before leaving for your venue.
    

  • A great sense of humor can go a long way in this business. If you’re not the best at cracking jokes or particularly quick on your feet when it comes to humor, work on it. Find jokes online or banter with friends. A DJ with a sense of humor can quell drunk, angry patrons, improve the general mood and become memorable.
    

  • Don’t let others cut or try to cheat by writing down a different name. Be fair and let those who have been waiting have their day. Stick to your policy and never play favorites.
    

  • Consider teaming up with a local photographer when doing private party

  
  
  

  References (2)
  

  • Entrepreneur: Karaoke DJ Service

  • Karaoke-Tutor.com: Starting a Business

  Resources (1)
  

  • Karaoke-Systems.com: Digital Karaoke Systems