Carnival's new karaoke policy...

[terri910]

Sorry if this comes across as uncaring, but sometimes it's really difficult to understand what's important to others.

Only for those missing the "empathy" gene.

 

The inability to put one's self in another's shoes is one of the things that is wrong with this world....

[terri910]

The ironic part about this to me me is, I keep reading the "Whitney Houston I ain't posts". It dawns on me that people that go to Karaoke do not want to hear the Whitney Houstons, Faith HIlls, or Frank Sinatras in a Karaoke bar. People would rather hear the guy above you that drinks Jaeger Bombers or just the "Average Joe" as opposed to the quality singer.

Right? I think that is what bothers me the most. I spent 30+ years developing musical skills, vocal skills, etc...They guy with the Jaeger Bombers will draw more of a crowd than the person who spent years honing his craft.

If people were interested in hearing the Whitneys and the excellent singers, wouldn't they go to the other clubs where chances are, the pros are singing? I really think that we are at a point where people no longer care about hearing quality really. I am 50(ick) now and it used to be all about going out and listening to as good of performances as you could....that is not what people do anymore.

 

As much as it bothers me, if people would rather hear that stuff, you have to accomodate that. Hence, the music business is not longer a passion to me....

 

I have been going to karaoke (and NOT performing) for years. I enjoy all the performances...which range from the Carmen Diaz' to the UNEXPECTED Whitney Houston's (they are out there).

 

But this thread isn't about convincing people who do not wish to listen to or participate in karaoke to do so; it is about Carnival being responsive to those that DO enjoy or participate in this activity that they provide onboard.

[smgardner]

I have been going to karaoke (and NOT performing) for years. I enjoy all the performances...which range from the Carmen Diaz' to the UNEXPECTED Whitney Houston's (they are out there).

 

But this thread isn't about convincing people who do not wish to listen to or participate in karaoke to do so; it is about Carnival being responsive to those that DO enjoy or participate in this activity that they provide onboard.

 

You're right. I am sorry for the hijack. I realized that after I sent it. In regards to the gambling analogy. I love to gamble, preferably Carnival would have a sportsbook. They don't though. If Royal Caribbean did, it would not affect my cruising choices. I could not make a decision based on something that trivial and I doubt that cruisers would make a decision based on whether they could take there own Karaoke tracks onboard. In the grand scheme of everything on acruise, is that really a big deal?

[terri910]

You're right. I am sorry for the hijack. I realized that after I sent it. In regards to the gambling analogy. I love to gamble, preferably Carnival would have a sportsbook. They don't though. If Royal Caribbean did, it would not affect my cruising choices. I could not make a decision based on something that trivial and I doubt that cruisers would make a decision based on whether they could take there own Karaoke tracks onboard. In the grand scheme of everything on acruise, is that really a big deal?

If there are several cruiselines with basically the same itinerary and same pricing, and one has more of what we enjoy available than the other, which will we choose?

 

We have always preferred Carnival because it has offered more of what we enjoy at our price range. As things change (and who can deny that cruise lines are changing?), our preferences may change along with it. That just makes more sense to me, as a consumer.

 

And the thing is....this is not one of those things that has to cost Carnival any more than karaoke already costs them.

[ash4020]

My dad sang professionally for years, as in he made money doing it, and he is good. (Im unbiased too!:D :rolleyes:) I share his opinion about karaoke.

 

If I want to hear a Reba or a Whitney, I'll dish out the money to hear them. If I want to have a good time where the crowd is involved, I'll go to karaoke. Life is too short to worry about what others enjoy. If I'm having fun and no one is hurt, what harm is there?

 

If you don't like karaoke, go somewhere else, if you do, I'll save you a seat!

[billsrobb]

No I can agree, even tho I'm not into karaoke. The topless deck we solved by booking wraps. but I have lots of friends that love love love karaoke. They would be terribly disappointed not to be able to sing to their own choices of music. I've enjoyed it myself, but I am a terrible singer. Dogs cry, squirrels run away, cats put their paws over their ears...so no way I am getting put on a cd of the ship as the worst karaoke person to ever live :D

MaryZ I doubt you are as bad as you say. Me on the other hand is a different matter. The money my parents gave me for singing lessons were spent on nickle ice cream cones!!! I can't carry a tune in either pocket!!

Robb

[billsrobb]

For those who don't sing karaoke...I will try to use other analogies to explain.

 

Tell Tiger Woods that he is going to play St. Andrews in Scotland..but he can't use his own clubs!! Now can he still play the game with "borrowed clubs"? Of course! Is he going to play as well? Maybe, but probably not. Is he going to enjoy it as much? Definately not!

 

The same goes for professional sharpshooters, bass fishmen or a professional pool player. All of these folks "can" participate in their professional sport. But none will do as well without their personal equipment.

 

Lots of folks golf every weekend and will do fine using someone's gear. Lots of guys hunt, fish or shoot pool every weekend and will do fine using someone else's gear.

 

BUT when you have a professional (even after their "glory days")...they are not going to do as well and certainly are not going to enjoy it as much if they don't have their own equipment. And that is what these CDGS are to us...our personal equipment to do the "sport" we love.

 

I love that comparison. I have done some limited and I mean 1 or two times and have enjoyed it. I had people tell that they appreciated my effort eventhough it was not all that great.

Robb

[karaokecruiser]

I was thoroughly disappointed on the Paradise this last weekend, when told by the karaoke host, I could no longer use my own disc. New corporate policy. Had to do with cruisers having their discs damaged, and language content. This was confirmed by the cruise director. Carnival has obviously taken the easy way out. Why not sign a waiver absolving Carnival from any liability to damage. Unfortunately foul language is the rule in our society today. I put up with hearing it in just about every section of the ship. But in a controlled situation, the karaoke host could warn the participants the offensive language is not allowed until the adult only session starts. Does Carnival have any plans to do away with the adult only comedy shows? Karaoke is a big part of my cruise experience, and the new policy will deffinitely have consequences when we decide to book future cruises. Maybe Carnival can afford to lose Platinum customers. We became Platinum because we've always preferred it over other lines. It may be time to fire Carnival, and start interviewing new cruise lines. :mad:

[karaokecruiser]

My only thought on this is to please GET OVER IT! Whatever they have you can TRY to sing to, and that's all that matters, right? After all, who are you trying to impress?

Get over it? That always gets possitive results. Your apathy is pathetic. Suppose they changed casino policy and said all we are going to allow is slot machines. We just can't contol the odds on poker, blackjack, craps and the roulette wheel. Sorry. As long as they don't threaten to take away what you enjoy, just GET OVER IT. If you COULD sing, you would understand why bringing your own disc is important. If you don't understand our passion, please don't be so flip. Those of you that do, please e-mail and write. Policy can be reversed if our voice is loud enough.

[smgardner]

Get over it? That always gets possitive results. Your apathy is pathetic. Suppose they changed casino policy and said all we are going to allow is slot machines. We just can't contol the odds on poker, blackjack, craps and the roulette wheel. Sorry. As long as they don't threaten to take away what you enjoy, just GET OVER IT. If you COULD sing, you would understand why bringing your own disc is important. If you don't understand our passion, please don't be so flip. Those of you that do, please e-mail and write. Policy can be reversed if our voice is loud enough.

 

Well, I won't go so far as the "get over it" line. But, there has to be thousands upon thousands of songs to choose from. I have to belive if you CAN sing(and I bet you can) that there will be plenty to make you happy. I would not assume that just because you can't take your discs that this won't work for you. Shoot, I was a professional musician for years and I did not always get the players that I wanted...I made it work. We have a local karoke joint/Mexican restaurant that we can walk to. My wife drags me to karaoke every now and then. The same folks are singing all the time and never bring there own stuff. You can find something to sing...If you are a good singer.

[terri910]

Well, I won't go so far as the "get over it" line. But, there has to be thousands upon thousands of songs to choose from. I have to belive if you CAN sing(and I bet you can) that there will be plenty to make you happy. I would not assume that just because you can't take your discs that this won't work for you. Shoot, I was a professional musician for years and I did not always get the players that I wanted...I made it work. We have a local karoke joint/Mexican restaurant that we can walk to. My wife drags me to karaoke every now and then. The same folks are singing all the time and never bring there own stuff. You can find something to sing...If you are a good singer.

There ARE thousands upon thousands of songs to choose from....but not in Carnival's catalog...that's the point.

 

"Make it work" is fine -- and an attitude I employ -- if you have no other alternative. But we all know that isn't the case -- or doesn't need to be.

 

As soon as Carnival (or any supplier of any product) makes me feel as if I have to "make it work" when it comes to what they're selling (unless there is NO altdernative).....I'll stop buying.

[MaryZ]

MaryZ I doubt you are as bad as you say. Me on the other hand is a different matter. The money my parents gave me for singing lessons were spent on nickle ice cream cones!!! I can't carry a tune in either pocket!!

Robb

 

Thanks for the vote of confidence. But I really am THAT bad....lol :D

[pholter]

Well, I won't go so far as the "get over it" line. But, there has to be thousands upon thousands of songs to choose from. I have to belive if you CAN sing(and I bet you can) that there will be plenty to make you happy. I would not assume that just because you can't take your discs that this won't work for you. Shoot, I was a professional musician for years and I did not always get the players that I wanted...I made it work. We have a local karoke joint/Mexican restaurant that we can walk to. My wife drags me to karaoke every now and then. The same folks are singing all the time and never bring there own stuff. You can find something to sing...If you are a good singer.

 

Believe me, their books are extremely lacking of songs and very outdated. If you want to sing Frank or anyone in the oldies category, then you're in luck! They must've gotten a sale price on a lot or something. I've got some CDG's that I consider waayyyy outdated that were still in my collection I brought and everyone in the audience were going through my CDG's to pick out songs because Love Shack was about the newest title in the Carnival book.

 

I have already said earlier that they have now taken away my 2 biggest fun factors for cruising Carnival- and I'm waiting for verification from others on this issue first of course. Karaoke and the Topless Deck were my deciding factors just as Camp Carnival or a Casino may be a deciding factor for others.

 

The bars in my town actually buy the decent brands of CDG's that are produced very well, not the really bad labels that Carnival buys, so I'm happy frequenting just about anyplace here and I am allowed to use my own CDG's for the rare songs that aren't available from the KJ's. Most have gone computerized and have the extra equipment that plays personal CDG's for the customers.

 

You didn't have a choice when you needed to work with your band, but going out for fun, we have choices in bars or cruiseships :)

[karaokecruiser]

Well, I won't go so far as the "get over it" line. But, there has to be thousands upon thousands of songs to choose from. I have to belive if you CAN sing(and I bet you can) that there will be plenty to make you happy. I would not assume that just because you can't take your discs that this won't work for you. Shoot, I was a professional musician for years and I did not always get the players that I wanted...I made it work. We have a local karoke joint/Mexican restaurant that we can walk to. My wife drags me to karaoke every now and then. The same folks are singing all the time and never bring there own stuff. You can find something to sing...If you are a good singer.

Actually, you are quite mistaken. 2 of the songs I decided to do from their play list were quite disappointing. One was a rendition of the Cole Porter classic, Night & Day. Not till after I was up there, did I realize it was the Billie Holiday version, not the Sinatra arrangement I'm accustomed to. Not to mention it was in a key I could not sing in. As a professional, you would not last long if you couln't play the song in a key the vocalist could sing in. The other song I chose, the disc was so bad it was unplayable. As a professional, I certainly hope you tried to be your best. Here's the thing. Carnival can change a senseless policy, and keep some customers that might cruise elsewhere, from the response I've seen. It's no skin off your nose if they keep some people happy. Also, I don't know what universe you go to for karaoke. I've been to plenty, and I've never been to a karaoke bar where at least half of the patrons hadn't brought their own disc. So, please don't try to make it sound so unusual that a person wouldn't want to bring their own disc so they can sound their best. As a professional, did you accept mediocre? How sad if you did. I go to karaoke for the fun it offers at all levels of talent, but really appreciate when someone can get up and demonstrate the wonderful God given talent of song.

[smgardner]

Believe me, their books are extremely lacking of songs and very outdated. If you want to sing Frank or anyone in the oldies category, then you're in luck! They must've gotten a sale price on a lot or something. I've got some CDG's that I consider waayyyy outdated that were still in my collection I brought and everyone in the audience were going through my CDG's to pick out songs because Love Shack was about the newest title in the Carnival book.

 

I have already said earlier that they have now taken away my 2 biggest fun factors for cruising Carnival- and I'm waiting for verification from others on this issue first of course. Karaoke and the Topless Deck were my deciding factors just as Camp Carnival or a Casino may be a deciding factor for others.

 

The bars in my town actually buy the decent brands of CDG's that are produced very well, not the really bad labels that Carnival buys, so I'm happy frequenting just about anyplace here and I am allowed to use my own CDG's for the rare songs that aren't available from the KJ's. Most have gone computerized and have the extra equipment that plays personal CDG's for the customers.

 

You didn't have a choice when you needed to work with your band, but going out for fun, we have choices in bars or cruiseships :)

 

 

Well, I stand corrected. I had assumed Carnivals karoake had to be up to snuff to our little place up the street. I should never assume anything..I guess if I said to "blow the karaoke off and go hear a real singer in another lounge", I wouldnt be making any friends, would I?

LOL, I am just kidding. One week from tonight, I am on the Valor. maybe I will go talk to the Karaoke dude/Dudette and get the lowdown. I am all for everybody getting there entertainment fix, be it real music or karaoke(zinger). I will find out what the scoop is...

[smgardner]

Actually, you are quite mistaken. 2 of the songs I decided to do from their play list were quite disappointing. One was a rendition of the Cole Porter classic, Night & Day. Not till after I was up there, did I realize it was the Billie Holiday version, not the Sinatra arrangement I'm accustomed to. Not to mention it was in a key I could not sing in. As a professional, you would not last long if you couln't play the song in a key the vocalist could sing in. The other song I chose, the disc was so bad it was unplayable. As a professional, I certainly hope you tried to be your best. Here's the thing. Carnival can change a senseless policy, and keep some customers that might cruise elsewhere, from the response I've seen. It's no skin off your nose if they keep some people happy. Also, I don't know what universe you go to for karaoke. I've been to plenty, and I've never been to a karaoke bar where at least half of the patrons hadn't brought their own disc. So, please don't try to make it sound so unusual that a person wouldn't want to bring their own disc so they can sound their best. As a professional, did you accept mediocre? How sad if you did. I go to karaoke for the fun it offers at all levels of talent, but really appreciate when someone can get up and demonstrate the wonderful God given talent of song.

 

Wow, didn't mean to upset you so. I truied offering up some encouragement that they probably had something you could sing...how stupid of me. For the record, I am from THIS universe, same one as you. The girl who does Karaoke at the local pub is a friend of the Mrs. No, peiople do not take in there own music. She has a laptop and calls em up as requested. Very common, no need for her to haul CDs around...I am surprised anybody does actually. Yes, as apro I did my best with what I was dealt...Isn't that the way to approach things.

make the best with what you have...good luck All.

[pholter]

Well, I stand corrected. I had assumed Carnivals karoake had to be up to snuff to our little place up the street. I should never assume anything..I guess if I said to "blow the karaoke off and go hear a real singer in another lounge", I wouldnt be making any friends, would I?

LOL, I am just kidding. One week from tonight, I am on the Valor. maybe I will go talk to the Karaoke dude/Dudette and get the lowdown. I am all for everybody getting there entertainment fix, be it real music or karaoke(zinger). I will find out what the scoop is...

Please do find out for all of us and please check out the books- maybe the Valor has some newer songs :) Maybe even after a few drink of the days, you can sing for everyone!! :p

[karaokecruiser]

Wow, didn't mean to upset you so. I truied offering up some encouragement that they probably had something you could sing...how stupid of me. For the record, I am from THIS universe, same one as you. The girl who does Karaoke at the local pub is a friend of the Mrs. No, peiople do not take in there own music. She has a laptop and calls em up as requested. Very common, no need for her to haul CDs around...I am surprised anybody does actually. Yes, as apro I did my best with what I was dealt...Isn't that the way to approach things.

make the best with what you have...good luck All.

Wasn't upset. You mistook passion for anger. I'd just like Carnival to go back to its old policy. In my business, we respond to our customers, and keep them happy when possible. My salespeople come to me all the time with concerns or complaints from our customer. My job is on the line if I don't respond to a reasonable concern. I hope Carnival has the same philosophy when it comes to customer relations. I believe they over-reacted, and the majority are suffering for the actions of a few. We've traveled with Carnival since the early 80's. Sometimes I've seen them eliminate problems rather than address them. They just need to be reminded who they serve. As my dad has told me since I was a child, "The sqeaking wheel gets the grease." Ive always believed that philosophy and it has served me well in my 60 plus years.

[brn2crz]

Well..I am a closet karaokeier....

I have only done it a couple of times...Just no where around here close that has it...Without being just a bar...And well...I'm a Mommy :D

 

Anyway...May I recommend that you guys spread the word....And when you are onboard...each of you donate a couple of CDG's to the ships inventory...They take books,why not those?? I know they are not cheap...But....really not very expensive either...I know the hostess's change pretty regularly...But I doubt they would outright damage or loose something thats already there...Worth a shot..

[terri910]

Well..I am a closet karaokeier....

I have only done it a couple of times...Just no where around here close that has it...Without being just a bar...And well...I'm a Mommy :D

 

Anyway...May I recommend that you guys spread the word....And when you are onboard...each of you donate a couple of CDG's to the ships inventory...They take books,why not those?? I know they are not cheap...But....really not very expensive either...I know the hostess's change pretty regularly...But I doubt they would outright damage or loose something thats already there...Worth a shot..

If it would be allowed I absolutely would donate a few specific discs to a particular cruise ship before a cruise.

 

I wonder if it would be allowed? After all, it would mean printing out new catalog books!

[brn2crz]

Huummm...Good point had not thought about that...

Maybe bring a long a print out of titles etc...too make it easier for them to add.....probably way more trouble than they would want..

 

Thats it...I am going to apply for job as full time Karaoke hostess onboard..Oh..any ship will do...I will do all that work for free cruises:D

[terri910]

Huummm...Good point had not thought about that...

Maybe bring a long a print out of titles etc...too make it easier for them to add.....probably way more trouble than they would want..

 

Thats it...I am going to apply for job as full time Karaoke hostess onboard..Oh..any ship will do...I will do all that work for free cruises:D

I hear ya!!!!

[jmcancruise]

OK I confess I finally tried it on the last cruise I was on. Yes I can sing. The first song I tried was great. I did well and the crowd responded. The second song I tried was a totally different version than what I was used to and I blew it completly. I sort of felt stupid, but brushed it off because I knew it was all in fun.. I did decide however to pick up a few discs of my own and practice before my next cruise because I do enjoy singing in public when I know what I am doing. My hubby even bought me a small machine for Christmas. Quite frankly now I don't know what I will do. I really don't want to make a fool of myself, but I would like to give it another try. Karaoke singers revolt!!!!!!

[karaokecruiser]

OK I confess I finally tried it on the last cruise I was on. Yes I can sing. The first song I tried was great. I did well and the crowd responded. The second song I tried was a totally different version than what I was used to and I blew it completly. I sort of felt stupid, but brushed it off because I knew it was all in fun.. I did decide however to pick up a few discs of my own and practice before my next cruise because I do enjoy singing in public when I know what I am doing. My hubby even bought me a small machine for Christmas. Quite frankly now I don't know what I will do. I really don't want to make a fool of myself, but I would like to give it another try. Karaoke singers revolt!!!!!!

Yea! A rookie karaoke-er who understands. My wife purchased some karaoke disks from her favorite artist, and was actually going to try it. As one of our previous Carnival karaoke host said, Carnival was going to get her cherryoke. She was very disappointed she was not allowed to use her own disc. There were no Diana Krall songs available in the songlist provided by the Paradise.

 

I sing every weekend at a dinner club we go to. I'm a trained singer, and I would not sing a song I don't know well enough. I don't get paid for it, so I can't be considered a professional, but it still matters to me that I do it right.

 

When on the ship, I always get up and do some of the fun songs in the book (Poison Ivy, Mother In Law, Charlie Brown, etc.) but I do like to do songs that showcase the good voice I have. I guess some people are bothered by that. There are people that do karaoke that could deffinitely sing professionally. I did the Legends show one time, and the "professionals" couldn't play the song in my key.

 

Unfortunately, I have a morgage, a family to feed, and bills to pay, so, at an early age I realized I probably wasn't going to make a decent livng making music. The karaoke lounge is one place I can go to play out my Walter Mitty alter-ego. I see no harm with that.

 

Please write and e-mail Carnival. They'll hear enough noise. Try the piano bars. Some, not many, will recognize a good voice, and hand you the mike. Just have an idea what key you want it in. Barry, on the Paradise is a great piano bar host. He really gets the crowd involved. He made up for our disappointment at karaoke. Unfortunately, not all hosts are like Barry, who said he is leaving in February.

[LHP]

Well, I stand corrected. I had assumed Carnivals karoake had to be up to snuff to our little place up the street. I should never assume anything..I guess if I said to "blow the karaoke off and go hear a real singer in another lounge", I wouldnt be making any friends, would I?LOL, I am just kidding. One week from tonight, I am on the Valor. maybe I will go talk to the Karaoke dude/Dudette and get the lowdown. I am all for everybody getting there entertainment fix, be it real music or karaoke(zinger). I will find out what the scoop is...

 

You would still be friends with me, because if it was the Asian band you were going to hear...it would be me doing the singing that you would be listening to .. I have an open mic invitation with Tony and the rest of Music Forever any time we cruise together!!!

 

Hope you enjoy your Valor cruise and find out what is going on!