The benefits of singing in public

Japanese in origin, the term ‘karaoke’ literally means ‘empty orchestra’, that is to say, music without any vocal track. Acknowledged as a social phenomenon and a leisure activity that is great fun, it consists of putting a voice to a melody while following the lyrics that appear on screen. A karaoke bar is a space where, whether we know the song or not, we have a gift for singing or are tone deaf, we can have a good time, whilst also bringing benefits to our body without realising it.

Singing is a de-stressing action that reduces anxiety, blood pressure and cortisol and it releases a large amount of endorphins, popularly known as ‘happiness hormones.’ Physically, karaoke improves and aids breathing, as we use our entire bodies when we stand up in front of a microphone. The diaphragm and the lungs expand and the abdominal muscles relax, encouraging air to pass in and out.

Often the choice of our song is not by chance, as it takes us to a specific moment or simply, we love the way it sounds. When singing a well-known melody we connect with our memories and emotions, promoting neuronal activity; while, if we have no idea of the lyrics, we must make an effort to follow the rhythm and therefore, stimulating our brain. With dozens of inputs over a few seconds, the organ that leads our behaviour starts working and activates the mechanisms necessary for learning, memory and concentration.

More than just physical

Singing a few notes in front of an expectant audience should scare anyone, but the ambience of a karaoke room is perfect for unleashing our tastes and personality.

Getting up onto the stage is not overwhelming, but rather a way of enjoying and building up our self-confidence. At the moment we put our embarrassment to one side and increase the tone of voice, we generate a feeling of self-confidence that aids socialisation. People perceive the singer as an open, cheerful individual, attracting the possibility of meeting other people and forming new social circles.

Families and groups of friends usually meet up in these places to celebrate a special event, but we can also end up in a karaoke as the result of an improvised night out that nobody wants to end. What is clear is that whether we choose to take part in the performance or not, it is certain we will laugh and share quality time with our loved ones. Because singing is not an addiction, but socialising and feeling protected by the surroundings is.  

The karaoke hits

Anyone who has entered a karaoke pub at some point will, without any doubt, have heard some of these classic seven songs. ‘I will survive,’ by Gloria Gaynor, was an anthem in the discotheques of the seventies that is still alive forty years on, even after many new trends. On the global scene, ‘Rehab,’ by Amy Winehouse, marked a before and after in the music industry, as well as Britney Spears and her famous hit ‘Baby one more time’ and Madonna with ‘Like a Virgin.’ Finally, other sure-fire classics in Spanish culture are ‘Mi gran noche,’ by Raphael, ‘Vivir así es morir de amor,’ by Camilo Sesto and ‘La flaca,’ composed by Jarabe de Palo.