Karaoke is not a pastime – It is a way of life.
In Manila, karaoke isn’t just a fun weekend activity it’s a full-blown cultural phenomenon. From street corners and birthday parties to sari-sari stores and seaside bars, you’ll hear voices belting out everything from power ballads to 90s boy bands at all hours of the day. For Filipinos, karaoke is more than music it’s a way of life, a form of bonding, and a national sport where the only rule is: sing with heart.
Take a watch at this video as Filipinos sing in a normal day at the Philippines.
Whether you can carry a tune or not, you’ll never feel judged. It’s all about participation, not perfection. Even the shyest person transforms into a stage diva when the first notes of “My Way” or “Total Eclipse of the Heart” play. And yes there’s an unspoken rule about singing “My Way” carefully, as the song is infamously linked to passionate (and sometimes intense) karaoke moments.
Fun Fact: The karaoke machine was invented by Filipino Roberto del Rosario in the 1970s and the country has been singing ever since.
What to Expect:
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Open-air karaoke setups in neighborhoods or parks
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Videoke bars where you can rent private rooms with friends
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Locals singing with emotion, volume, and full-on stage presence
Tips for Travelers:
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Don’t be shy locals love it when foreigners join in!
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Choose a crowd-pleaser like “Dancing Queen” or “Bohemian Rhapsody”
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Bring small bills for coin-operated karaoke machines
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Expect to be offered a mic even if you didn’t ask
Joining a karaoke session in Manila is one of the most authentic, joyful, and unforgettable ways to connect with locals. So go ahead grab the mic, channel your inner rock star, and sing like no one’s listening (even if the whole barangay is).
