Walt’s Inn
Canton
This bar—in the neon Natty Boh’s line of sight—boasts karaoke every night of the week. And there’s a no-shame-in-your-game vibe as anyone (with enough $2-jello-shot courage) can get up there and belt out tunes. Boy-band ballads always seem to be one of the more popular choices.
Castaways
Canton
Wednesday evenings at this island-themed bar on Boston Street mean a few things: law-enforcement night, discounts for the ladies, and——you guessed it——karaoke. Expect to see judges and cops singing right along with you, and for the selections to have a bit more twang.
Max’s Taphouse
Fells Point
Every Friday, Max’s hosts a karaoke night in its back bar. The happy-hour deals beforehand (mixed with high-proof beers available) make for some slurred renditions of karaoke classics, like “Sweet Caroline,” “We Built This City,” and “Build Me Up Buttercup.”
Nevin’s Cross Street Station
Federal Hill
Nevin’s is on the other side of Cross Street, the one that is slightly less populated, which suits this dive just fine. There is karaoke every night, but during the week you’re more likely to see long-haired regulars, while weekends are for frat boys. On any night, you can find the owner crooning Frank Sinatra tunes on the sticky dance floor.
Midtown BBQ & Brew
Mt. Vernon
This newer spot on the sing-along landscape (formerly the Midtown Yacht Club) hosts a lively karaoke night every Thursday. Patrons never have to wait long to sing their selections, which include anything from Talking Heads to Whitney Houston. Snacking on the spicy pulled-pork nachos between songs is a plus.
Rainbow Music Studio
Station North
For an authentic karaoke experience, your best bet is Rainbow Music Studio, which offers rooms with comfy couches for smaller groups of up to six. The songs are mostly Korean, but there’s a decent selection of English standards (from Bruce Springsteen to Oasis).
The Windup Space
Station North
The stage at The Windup Space is designed to look like the Black Lodge, the metaphysical setting from the TV thriller Twin Peaks. Hence “Black Lodge Karaoke,” where patrons sing ’80s favorites like “Punk Rock Girl” and “Total Eclipse of the Heart.”
Sound Bite: Top of the Charts According to the U.S. Karaoke Alliance, the four most popular songs are “Picture” by Sheryl Crow and Kid Rock, “Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood, “Summer Nights” from Grease, and “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey.
