Originally Answered: Why do the Japanese love karoake so much? It serves as an expressive outlet. Even people with marginal voices can belt it out in the privacy of their little room. Most karaoke in Japan is not like open mic night at a local bar, but rather in small, close to sound proof rooms.

The first karaoke machine was invented by Japanese musician Daisuke Inoue in Kobe, Japan in 1971 however Inoue admits to not creating the name “karaoke”. A Japanese entertaining group created the phrase after an orchestra went on strike and a machine was used instead to play the music.

Karaoke (/ˌkærəˈoʊki/; Japanese: [kaɾaoke] ( listen); カラオケ, clipped compound of Japanese kara 空 “empty” and ōkesutora オーケストラ “orchestra”) is a type of interactive entertainment usually offered in clubs and bars, where people sing along to recorded music using a microphone.

It originated in Japan and is now popular around the world, especially in Asia. Karaoke is a well-liked pastime enjoyed by people of all ages in Japan, and also makes an interesting activity for tourists to Japan, especially those looking for some night entertainment.

On the other hand, in Japan, at least 50% (estimate – likely a greater percentage) of people enjoy karaoke on a semi-regular basis (i.e., once every few months). Hitokara, a word that refers to people that like to go do karaoke alone, is also becoming increasingly popular.

Karaoke is huge in Asia, especially in Japan, the Philippines, and South Korea. We can decipher that this is mainly because karaoke was invented in Japan and later in the Philippines. Since the 1970s karaoke has been a big part of their culture.

Tips for Successful Karaoke at Home

1. Do a trial run a day or two before the party.
2. Sound test your system with the microphones and singing.
3. Notify your neighbors as a courtesy.
4. Set up a general playlist to keep the party vibe going without interruption.