Chicago Favorite: Karaoke Nights

So, you think you want to be a rock star.  Well this Thursday night that is exactly what I was thinking.  

I have said many times in my past that I would never sing Karaoke, but once again I surprised even myself.  

I found myself with new friends at The Penny Road Pub in Barrington, IL.  Little did I know that this small group of new friends are fond of playing rock star for a night after a few cocktails.

Letting go of all of my typical inhibitions, I decided to throw it all into the wind and join in on the fun.  Let me tell you all, I had a blast.  In my mind, I thought I put even Shakira in her place.

I may not be the best singer, but I surely had a good time.  I highly recommend trying it at least once in life.  Who knows?  You may even surprise yourself with a good time.  Heck, even I got a standing ovation at one point.

Penny Road Pub is a small neighborhood pub, with an at home feel.  Neon signs glowing and reflecting off of the shiny wood surfaces, people singing, dancing, and having a good time.  

The pub itself has a great atmosphere and fun patrons, but I must admit that they seemed understaffed at times, and the few that were around seemed to be working on their customer relations skills more so than their customer service skills.

There is Karaoke every Monday through Thursday until 3:30 a.m. Though I must admit that unless you are a glutton for punishment, I would not recommend getting there too late.  I found out that the most reserved of patrons tend to jump out of their skin and hit the microphone after around 1 a.m.  and that can get a little scary.  

Penny Road Pub offers food and drink special nearly every day of the week. From dollar 1/4 lb. Burgers on Wednesday to dollar drafts on Monday, there is always penny pinching savings at this neighborhood joint.  For more information about their specials and schedule you can check out www.pennyroadpub.com.

Of course, there are many more places around Chicago and the suburbs for wanna-be rock star fun.  To find a Karaoke joint closer to home one of the most valuable resources is <a href=http://www.centerstage.net/bars/styles/karaoke.html>the Centerstage website</a>

An evening of Karaoke can be a fun time in any town.  Just check around online to find someplace in your city that may offer it.

Though it may seem cheesy, believe or not, its one of those things that you just have to let loose and try at least once.  Who knows you could be the next American Idol.  You never know until you try.

But be warned, there will always be that one guy that gets dressed up and takes his Karaoke all too seriously.  But then again, it’s all just one more factor of entertainment in the night.  Even if you may still be too chicken to try and sing, it’s always a night filled with laughs and entertainment to go and watch others try.  If you can get over the occasional squelch of the speakers and some tone deaf tunes, you are guaranteed at least a night of rib pained laughs.