Karaoke is one of Vietnam’s national pastimes, present at special occasions and regular occasions too. Whether it’s a spontaneous session with a karaoke entrepreneur bringing a portable machine to a restaurant or a wedding afterparty, karaoke is embedded in Vietnamese social life.
Like many things that people do when they’re drunk, karaoke also has a shadow side. There are complaints about noise pollution and debates about the rise of karaoke ôm, which blends music with prostitution.
Oh yeah—then there are the frequent fires, brought on by janky electrical wiring and DIY parlors with few emergency exits.
Despite these concerns, karaoke still occupies a central role in Vietnamese culture. It’s one of the highlights of many nights out, and nights in—here’s what it’s all about!
Popular Karaoke Venues in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s karaoke mecca. Here are some of the most popular spots:
- King Karaoke: Known for its luxurious interiors and extensive song selection.
- Avatar Karaoke: A family-friendly venue with themed rooms and excellent sound systems.
- Karaoke Icool: Offers a cozy atmosphere and a vast collection of songs.
- Kingdom Karaoke: A high-end option with a big song library.
Popular Karaoke Venues in Hanoi
Hanoi’s karaoke culture combines tradition with modernity. Top venues include:
- Karaoke Sunny Royal: Affordable and highly rated for its friendly staff.
- The 47 Pub & KTV: A lively venue offering professional service and state-of-the-art sound equipment.
- Karaoke Bolero 148 Nghi Tàm: Known for its emphasis on Vietnamese music and top-notch cocktail service.
The Cultural Significance of Karaoke in Vietnam
Karaoke is a form of entertainment that combines instrumental tracks with on-screen lyrics for participants to sing along. It emerged in Japan in the 1970s and has since become a global phenomenon. The concept is simple: a karaoke version of a song is played, and participants perform as though they’re the star of the show.
In Vietnam, karaoke emphasizes group participation. Unlike Western karaoke, which often involves solo performances on public stages, Vietnamese karaoke is about shared experiences in private rooms with groups of friends. Every so often the attendants will refill your beer and ice. Many karaoke parlors in Vietnam stay open all night.
Karaoke holds a special place in Vietnam’s social life, bridging generations and backgrounds. The appeal of karaoke lies in its inclusivity—whether it’s at a restaurant, family gathering, or work party, there’s a place for everyone.
Karaoke also shows up in surprising places—at weddings, birthdays, and even funerals from time to time.
Historical Background
Karaoke arrived in Vietnam in the 1990s, during a period of economic and cultural transformation. Initially seen as a luxury for the wealthy, karaoke machines quickly became accessible to middle- and lower-income households. This coincided with a cultural shift toward modern forms of entertainment.
The popularity of karaoke grew rapidly, integrating into Vietnamese music culture. Traditional Vietnamese songs found their way into karaoke playlists, preserving cultural heritage while modern hits like those of Mỹ Tâm and Sơn Tùng M-TP added contemporary flair.
Evolution from Japanese Origins to Vietnamese Phenomenon
While karaoke originated in Japan, Vietnam made it its own. In Vietnam, karaoke evolved into a communal experience, not something kept in KTV bars. Whether at a karaoke complex in Ho Chi Minh City or a casual session at a family gathering, it prioritizes togetherness.
The activity also reflects Vietnam’s fusion of old and new. Karaoke machines and apps now include collections of songs that range from folk music to global pop hits. This diversity has helped karaoke thrive across generations and social groups.
What to Sing at Vietnamese Karaoke
If it’s your first karaoke night in Vietnam, choosing the right songs can make or break your experience. Many Vietnamese karaoke enthusiasts gravitate toward nostalgic ballads or upbeat classics.
English songs like “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion or “Hotel California” by The Eagles will always be a hit. These are widely recognized and appreciated across generations.
If you’re ready to embrace the local culture, consider trying Vietnamese music classics such as “Cơn Mưa Tình Yêu” by Hà Anh Tuấn and Phương Linh or “Người Hãy Quên Em Đi” by Mỹ Tâm. Singing popular Vietnamese karaoke songs not only earns you respect but also enhances the collective fun, even if you miss a note or two.
The Best Song to Sing in Vietnam Is Always a Boney M Track
In Vietnam, few songs can ignite a karaoke party like Boney M’s hits. “Rasputin”, “Rivers of Babylon,” and “Daddy Cool” are staples, thanks to their infectious beats and nostalgic appeal.
One key factor in their popularity is tied to the 1982 FIFA World Cup. During broadcasts, Vietnamese state TV repeatedly played “Rasputin” before matches, embedding the song into the national consciousness. The infectious beats and simple, repetitive lyrics made Boney M’s songs ideal for a society with limited access to foreign music and English comprehension.
Modern Talking, the German synth-pop duo behind hits like “Cheri, Cheri Lady” and “You’re My Heart, You’re My Soul,” enjoys a similarly iconic status in Vietnam. Their music captured the hearts of Vietnamese audiences in the 1980s and 1990s, offering something fresh and new at a time when Vietnam was opening to the West.
The Karaoke Experience in Vietnam
Karaoke in Vietnam is about more than singing; it’s about connection. Sessions often include karaoke in combination with food and drinks, turning a simple gathering into a vibrant event. Group karaoke singing, whether in closed room karaoke style or open settings, strengthens friendships and creates lasting memories.
The Vietnamese karaoke experience transcends performance. It’s common to see heartfelt renditions of hard-to-listen-to music plays or endearing amateur attempts. Whether at family reunions, friend meetups, or corporate events, karaoke in Vietnam always leaves an imprint.
Group Singing and Socialization
In Vietnam, karaoke is a group activity that fosters social connections. It’s not uncommon for Vietnamese karaoke sessions to feature entire families, groups of friends, or even coworkers bonding over their favorite tunes. These gatherings are often lively and inclusive, with everyone encouraged to sing regardless of vocal ability.
What sets Vietnamese karaoke apart is its informal, welcoming nature. While karaoke style bars offer elaborate settings, you’ll also find spontaneous sessions at street-side eateries or in rural areas. This accessibility has made karaoke a core aspect of Vietnamese social life, where it acts as both entertainment and a unifier.
The Role of Karaoke in Family Gatherings
Family gatherings in Vietnam almost always feature karaoke as a central activity. Whether during Tết or smaller celebrations, singing together strengthens familial ties. Older generations often perform traditional songs, while younger relatives contribute by singing modern hits. This interplay between tradition and modernity highlights karaoke’s role in bridging generational divides.
These sessions often turn into storytelling moments, where songs evoke memories and emotions. Karaoke at family gatherings is more than entertainment; it’s a shared cultural experience that preserves Vietnamese music heritage.
The Guy With the Rolling Speaker Who Comes to Restaurants
A unique feature of Vietnam’s karaoke culture is the roving karaoke setups. In urban and rural areas alike, individuals with portable speakers and microphones bring karaoke to restaurants and public spaces. For the cost of a small tip, anyone can sing their heart out while diners enjoy their meals.
While this practice brings spontaneity and fun to ordinary settings, it’s not without its haters. Some complain about the hard-to-listen-to music and loud karaoke singers disrupting their peace.
Karaoke as a Social Ill
Karaoke is often spoken of as a social ill—lawmakers have even gone as far as proposing a never-implemented “karaoke street” in Hanoi, intending to keep all of the naughty things that accompany karaoke bars in one place.
- First among these social ills is prostitution. The rise of karaoke ôm, where music venues double as fronts for prostitution, has sparked controversy. These establishments, often found in urban areas, exploit the private room setup for illicit purposes.
- Another persistent issue is noise pollution. Complaints about loud karaoke parties have become common in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The problem isn’t confined to commercial establishments; residential areas frequently suffer from neighbors blasting music late into the night.
- Alcohol often plays a big role in karaoke sessions. Excessive drinking during karaoke nights can sometimes turn fun into chaos, further contributing to karaoke’s mixed reputation.
- Fires break out in karaoke parlors, causing huge death tolls. It’s a curious phenomenon—every year an electrical fire will flare up in a karaoke parlor and cause 10+ deaths. These places are often improvised structures without fire exit routes or safety systems.
When I was working for Word Magazine, we had a nightlife issue planned—naturally I wanted to do an article on karaoke.
My idea was to invite local musicians and have them square off in a karaoke battle. I wanted to call it the “Karaoke Battle of the Bands.”
The article was killed out of the gate. I didn’t understand, what was the problem?
Our Vietnamese owner said I couldn’t write about karaoke. She said, “Karaoke means prostitution in Vietnam.”
I called it “Battle of the Bands: The Covers Edition” and we ran it—it was the exact same story.
Types of Karaoke Systems Available
Vietnam offers a range of karaoke options to suit different preferences and budgets. Portable karaoke machines are popular for outdoor gatherings or small groups, while professional setups cater to more serious singers.
For those seeking convenience, karaoke apps bring the experience to smartphones, letting users access a library of songs, from favourite songs to niche tracks, anytime.
Portable Karaoke Machines
Portable karaoke machines are popular for their convenience. Affordable and compact, they allow karaoke enthusiasts to set up impromptu singing sessions anywhere. These machines often include a built-in Mixing Amplifier Karaoke Anti-Feedback system, ensuring clear audio for an enjoyable experience.
Whether it’s a casual outdoor gathering or a quick song at home, portable systems cater to the everyday karaoke needs of Vietnamese people. Their accessibility has made them a staple in both urban and rural areas.
Professional Home Karaoke Setups
For those seeking a premium experience, professional home karaoke systems are the way to go. These setups feature high-quality karaoke equipment, including powerful speakers, microphones, and expansive song libraries. Many families in major cities invest in these systems as a status symbol and a way to enhance their karaoke sessions.
These home systems have become increasingly sophisticated, offering features like touchscreen controls and app integration. They’re ideal for families who want to recreate the experience of a karaoke complex in the comfort of their own homes.
Karaoke Apps and Technologies
With the rise of smartphones, karaoke apps have become top downloads in Vietnam. Apps like WeSing and StarMaker provide access to vast collections of songs, including both Vietnamese music and international hits. These apps also offer social features, allowing users to share their performances and connect with others.
Karaoke apps have democratized the experience, making it accessible to anyone with a smartphone. They’re particularly popular among the younger generation, who use them to practice singing and engage in virtual karaoke gatherings.
