Karaoke Scene

What’s New Aug 2002

Well, summer’s nearly over and fall looks very exciting for Karaoke. More and more venues are popping up all over the place and sales of home Karaoke systems are on the increase as the popularity of Karaoke continues to surge. Karaoke Scene Magazine is consistently contacted by, and has been quoted in, major newspapers across the country that are doing major pieces on the Karaoke phenomenon. We think it’s all pretty terrific.

We are proud to announce that the Karaoke Fest 2002 winners for “Male & Female Vocalist of the Year,” William Jordan and Jenny Eisenhardt, will be singing on the popular Mark & Brian syndicated radio show on KLOS, 95.5FM. The tentative air date is set for Wednesday, August 14th at about 8:00 in the morning. Our warmest congratulations to William and Jenny as we wish them the best of luck on their performances!

There are several new and innovative events coming up including “The Original Music Experience” tour presented by Pilsner Urquell, an imported premium Czech beer. This is a statewide, fun event where all you have to do is just show up where the traveling studio stops and record your favorite song. You get a free CD copy of your performance just for participating. When the event ends (probably in October) the most outstanding performance will be judged by a panel of eminently qualified individuals and the winner have their photo in Karaoke Scene Magazine, a portion of their performance will be streamed onto our website and be awarded $1,000. But this is not just about the prize…it is about having a great time singing Karaoke, visiting new venues, and making new friends. This event will be held at approximately 100 locations throughout California. Check the special page on this site for a location near you.

Penguin Karaoke is presenting the first annual “All Karaoke Cruise” which takes place from January 17 – 20, 2003. “Big” Bob Malthouse & Phil Farmer, owners of Penguin Karaoke will be shepherding the event along with Manny Pacheco & Laurie Masters and Art & Lori Johnson. This vocal voyage will take place aboard the Carnival fun ship “Ecstasy” and if I know these folks, this cruise should be a riot. You won’t want to be left ashore…so for Karaoke Cruise information please call (800) 600-4548. Bon Voyage!

Karaoke Scene Magazine has been in talks with a production company for a major cable TV channel regarding the filming of a documentary chronicling the “road” to Karaoke Fest 2003. A film production crew will follow the path of contestants through the qualifying rounds and semi finals at venues throughout Southern California all the way to the finals at Karaoke Fest 2003. We will keep you informed on the progress of this project.

Finally, this August we observe the 25th anniversary of the passing of the biggest entertainment phenomenon of all time, Elvis Presley. There has never been anyone quite like him and probably will never be. He stands alone as the undisputed “King of Rock & Roll” and the most universally recognizable personality ever. His generosity is legendary, his appeal universal. His spirit lives on through his music and his memory…and his contribution to Karaoke is unparalleled. There are far more “Elvis” selections in Karaoke libraries across the United States and around the world than any other single artist with even more on the horizon. Karaoke Scene salutes “The King,” his music, and his memory.

What’s New Dec 2001

Salvation Army - Peter & MannyCongratulations and many heartfelt thanks to all of the KJs, clubs, patrons and friends who came together to help our fellow Americans in need to the tune of $13,212.01. Every penny raised was presented to the Salvation Army’s representative, Warren Johnson, and will be sent, dollar for dollar, directly to their 120,000 square foot warehouse/headquarters located at “ground zero”. We have published a copy of the Salvation Army’s thank you letter to the Karaoke community in this edition.

A very special thank you and a big tip of the Karaoke Scene hat go to Manny Pacheco who devoted countless hours and worked tirelessly in helping to make “Karaoke Cares” a success. Be sure to look for his “Unsung Heroes” article in the current issue.

A warm welcome to our new editor/art director, Tony Avery. We look forward to working with Tony and anticipate many new and exciting ideas which he promises to bring to our publication. And best of luck to our departing editor, Julie Turnbaugh. It was a pleasure working with Julie on the past 3 issues and I thank her for sharing her talent and for all her hard work.

I would like to personally thank you for visiting our new, completely redesigned website. The site offers many new things including a remodeled and innovative discussion forum and a new “Ask Sammy” forum where you can get answers to all of your technical hardware & software questions. You may now subscribe to Karaoke Scene Magazine online, purchase merchandise (“Scene Gear”, decals, etc.) and even sign up for a free email address. The events calendar will guide you to contests and other special Karaoke happenings and don’t forget to check out the classified ad section.

We have designed the site to be able to grow and many other new features are being added all the time. For instance, in the very near future, clubs may purchase an entire page on our site so that when someone clicks on the name of that establishment, a customized page opens describing everything about that venue including pictures, logos, special events, etc. Club owners, this a great new way to promote your business. Also, there is still some space available for banner ads. This space is very limited so reserve yours now. For more information you may inquire by email at ads@karaokescene.com or phone us at (714) 826-2212.

Kudos and much gratitude go to Phill Cross of Cross Web Tech for all of his hard work and dedication in the building of this site. We can highly recommend him and his company.

Finally, many are asking about the dates for KaraokeFest 2002. At this time, we are still looking at late spring. We hope to make this the best “Fest” ever and plans are currently in the works to that end.

Thanks again for your visit and your support and please remember, we are here for you!